Q: I have a fingertip-length black...

Q: I have a fingertip-length black leather jacket that’s beginning to look a little tired. Except for the lapels, where I put last year’s Olympic pins, it’s in good condition. How can I bring it to life?--M.T. A: Save your jacket and the animals by adding oversize fake-fur lapels the way Claude Montana does, as illustrated here. The imitation furs now available are the most inventive in years, so pick your favorite pretend pelt and start sewing.

Q: I know it’s supposed to be OK now to wear evening looks during the day and daytime looks at night, but just how does that work? I can’t wear a strapless jersey dress to work, and how could I show up at an expensive restaurant in a turtleneck and pants?--B.B.

A: Sure you can wear a strapless jersey dress to work. Simply cover it with a brocade or tapestry jacket and fill in the neckline with lots of jewelry. If your pants and turtleneck are black, and if you wear them with beaded-toe pumps and an important bracelet and earrings, you’ll be worthy of the most prestigious restaurant. The secret to this a.m.-p.m. turnabout is fabric and accessories. Brocades, tapestries and satins all work for day when they’re mixed with tweeds and flannels. Tweeds, flannels and cashmeres work for night if the colors are dark and the jewels are bold.