I have to confess that I am ambivalent about shorts. I understand their utility, but I always wind up feeling like throwing on a pair of shorts is the equivalent of giving up, like I could wear something cuter if I would just try a little harder. But there are times — baseball season, say, or August — where shorts are the most appropriate option for my life.

Cheer up! A button-down give your shorts some edge.

The trick to making even the most casual shorts look stylish is really in what you wear with them. My shorts wardrobe (all two pairs) are basic chinos — durable, versatile, machine washable. I have no illusions about dressing them up (in fact, I’m not a fan of “dressy” shorts, or of shorts for the office — shorts are for casual wear, period). But I do want my shorts to be flattering, and I do not want to look like I just came from cleaning out the garage when I leave the house in shorts.

I assume you feel the same way about your shorts. So what do you wear them with?

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It is a truth universally acknowledged that a classic white shirt is a wardrobe staple. But where do you find a great white shirt? And how do you wear it once you’ve got it?

Simple. Let’s start with what to buy.

Lands’ End Women’s Solid No Iron Pinpoint Cotton Shirt, $44.50

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For the next few weeks, I’m taking your questions, because the whole point of The Working Closet is to get your closet in shape. This week, we’re revisiting the cardigan — on a budget.

When we talk about budget shopping, there are a few things to keep in mind. Rules, if you will. You’re welcome.

Spend smart. Resist the urge to buy any piece simply because of the price tag; unless you’re going to wear what you buy, you’re wasting your money, no matter how little — or how much — you spend. A bargain is only a good deal if it’s something that will work with your existing wardrobe.

Invest wisely. No matter how much you’re spending — $10 or $100 — the pieces you bring home should work for you; they should fit your body and your life and your style. Be open to investing in one really great piece rather than buying five so-so pieces; if you choose wisely, you will be able to wear that one sweater all the time, with lots of other pieces. And while you don’t have to spend $100 to get a great sweater, but the $10 needs to be as close to perfect as you can get.

Take care of your purchases. Treat that $10 sweater as though it cost ten times that; don’t just toss it in the laundry or on the floor. Make the effort to care for your clothes, and you will see a return on your investment. Hand wash, line dry, dry clean only when necessary.

Ok, lecture over! Let’s talk about where to find a great boyfriend cardi for spring. Here are my favs, all for under $40.

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We live in a culture that loves big-busted women — at least, sometimes. If you’re a well-endowed girl, shopping for tops that fit can be less than a love story. So how do you get the best look for your boobs?

The key is fit.

Diana wrap shirt, Carissa Rose, $80

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J. Crew sequined deco top, $495. Pretty, but we can do better. Promise.

An embellished top is an easy way to dress up even the most basic pieces — pair a sequined tank with tailored trousers or a sleek pencil skirt for a look that can go from the office to cocktails, or wear the same tank with your boyfriend jeans for a Saturday date night.

But you don’t need a $500 tank to make this look work; here are some more affordable — but no less hip and versatile — options.

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I am just coming up for air from my enormous stack of September fall fashion magazines. Let me tell you, I can’t get enough of the hundreds of pages of new trends, hairstyles and makeup for the fall. From what I’ve seen so far, the common theme amongst most September issues is the classic white shirt. Whether it be in advertisements, editorial pieces or even on the internet, the white shirt is a high priority this season.

I must admit, there was a time when I wasn’t so keen on white shirts. I had quite a messy baby and frankly, didn’t know if I would ever wear white again. However, now that he’s in preschool, I have more chances to put on a crisp white shirt and not fear immediate baby-induced staining.

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I’m an online shopper through and through. I’m not really into crowded malls, and would much rather spend my time sitting on my couch drinking a latte while purchasing this season’s most darling [insert clothing item here]. Plus, with the majority of my favorite stores implementing easy and free returns, why not?

However, I’ve been stuck in an online retailer rut - not really venturing out into new online shopping territory. That is, until Lucky Magazine published their 100 under $100 online shopping guide in their July issue. Woohoo! More ways to spend my money!

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Once you’ve picked out the right shorts, you’re half way dressed, but what goes on top? Answer: Pretty much anything!

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I have to be honest with you. It took everything in my power not to entitle this post, Absolutely Crazy Trend Watch (WHAT ARE YOU PEOPLE THINKING?) - Neon. Let’s be serious for a second. Neon? Like the Day-Glo Eighties phenomenon? Who wants to re-hash that nightmare?

Well, apparently, W magazine, Harper’s Bazaar and many other fine publications are more than willing to shove neon right back in our faces.

(Looking for a rock to crawl under.)

Is it possible to alter this trend to make it work for the majority of women who would rather not be reminded of acid green Ray-Bans and jelly bracelets from our school days? Of course we can! This blog is called The Working Closet, isn’t it?

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Let’s get real - it’s the day after Christmas and my pants are feeling a little tight. In fact, don’t mind me while I unbutton my jeans.

Much better.

Is it just me or have you seen a plethora of horrible, HORRIBLE holiday sweaters this year? This abomination of fashion has been quite the hot topic around my family’s home lately, and since we all are feeling a little comatose from the onslaught of holiday gatherings, I figured it would be a good week to keep it light.

Without further ado, I give you the Horrible Holiday Sweater Bonanza.

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