Maybe you’re a natural in knowing what to wear and how to accessorize. If so, feel fortunate.

Most, including me, are not.

That’s why you need a clothing buddy. A close friend, relative or spouse who’s allowed to tell you, “Those pants are not flattering.” or “You really should wear the coral, not the pastel green.”

You have to have enough trust in this person to know that they know what they’re talking about, and snipping at them with a defensive comment is not allowed. It’ll make them hesitant to tell you the truth next time. You don’t want that.

One of my clothing buddies is a fellow female reporter here at Fox Toledo. She’s always ready with an honest opinion. She’s stopped me from buying some things that probably would have been fashion mistakes. She’s told me when I look my best, so I can learn from those choices and try to repeat what’s good.

I have an event to go to Sunday, a fundraiser for the Anne Grady Center, a home in Lucas County for people who are developmentally disabled. It’s a fairly dressy event. I’m planning to wear a long black velvet dress, but had no solid idea what to do with shoes and jewelry. Just a few minutes ago I showed a picture of the dress to my clothing buddy. She had instant suggestions of items already in my wardrobe which would work.

Thank you clothing buddy. You’re so much better that those high-priced Hollywood stylists. And Buddy, keep wearing the jewel tones, they flatter your hair and skin.