Fashion and beauty Q&A: winter accessories

Q. I'm looking for a smart pair of shoes to wear to a friend's wedding next month. I'm terrible in heels - what are the other options?

A. I know and understand that feeling - I can't do skyscraper heels either! I tend to go for a small heel, something like Christian Louboutin's metallic purple patent heeled pumps.

Wedges are also a good bet. They're super-flattering, elongate the leg and I always find that I can balance well in them. My star find would be the silver sequined Belle wedges coming in to Matches for AW09. You will also find that the thicker the heel, the more stable you will feel - a trick is to look out for a concealed platform which makes you even taller.

Finally, my last choice would be to go for a failsafe pair of ballet pumps or a flat boot. There are some amazing Chloe over-the-knee ones that will look fantastic teamed with your dress on the day.     

Catherine West, Private Shopping Director for Matches www.matchesfashion.com

Q. This year I'm spending my money wisely. Where can I get a good pair of tights that will last me all winter?

A. www.tightsplease.co.uk sell a range of tights, from traditional black to coloured opaques. We love the celebrity section where you can buy tights and socks in the style of celebs such as Fearne Cotton and Agyness Deyn.

There are all kinds of tights imaginable, ranging from those designed for taller women and maternity tights, to organic cotton tights and children's school tights. They also sell a range of other products such bras, underwear and cosmetics. 

Emily Nelson, SHE fashion team

All About You answers the most-asked fashion and beauty questions

I've had the same hair cut for years. Any tips on how to go about finding a new style?

I am beginning to get bad pigmentation on my face and hands.  I don't know how I got it or how to get rid of it?

I'm thinking of going grey naturally but want a style and conditioning routine to make sure I look the best I can - any suggestions?

Can you recommend some good shapewear underwear for everyday use - I like to wear it under work clothes but find that some designs are just too uncomfortable to wear all day?

I like to keep up with the trends, but don't want to look like mutton dressed as lamb. I'm just about to turn 50, what autumn trends should I go for? 

I take sunscreen seriously, but wearing SPF products every day irritates my complexion. How can I protect my face without upsetting its balance?

Which is best, cream or powder blush?  

I'm stuck in a makeup rut but find trends that look stunning on the runway look scary in reality. How can I bring my style up-to speed?

I always wear my hair tied back, but I'm bored of the classic ponytail. Can you suggest an easy style that I could do quickly in the mornings that won't make me late for work?

I'm a total pear shape and can never find dresses to suit my body shape - what kinds of styles should I go for?

I want to invest in good hair straightening irons. Which ones do you recommend?

My eyebrows are an endangered species after years of over-plucking. Is it really too late to bring them back from the brink of extinction?

This year I haven't been spending as much on clothes as I normally do, but I plan to make an investment in a really good winter coat. Any advice on what to choose?

I have a lot of grey hairs - what's the best way to cover them?

I want to find a fantastic fitting bra but don't want to pay Rigby and Peller prices, where should I go?

Is it safe to use an exfoliator around the eye area on this delicate, sensitive skin? Can you recommend a good product to use?

Is it really necessary to splash-out on cosmetic brushes to make the most of my make-up? Which ones do professionals use?

I've worn the same makeup for years and would love to try something new but don't know where to start or how to get out of my beauty rut. Any suggestions?

I suffer from dull, dark circles under my eyes that don't seem to go away no matter how much water I drink or number of hours sleep I get. What can I do?

Why do little white spots appear on my nails? Am I suffering from lack of calcium?

I'm bored of the high street! Where can find a unique patterned dress for autumn/winter that's not chain store?

I'm still plagued by adult acne in my 40s. What can I do?

I've got a wedding coming up in November and would like to buy something that will see me through the Christmas party season also. Where should I go?

What sort of maintenance routine should I follow after a bikini wax?  

Is there a quick-fix face and body make-up that will help to camouflage veins?

I pick the skin at the sides of my fingernails making them sore and red - can you tell me how to break this unsightly habit?

Where can I find a varied collection of designer clothing on the internet?