Are all those costly creams and lotions really worth it?

Dear Answer Angel Ellen: Do I really need a body lotion, hand cream, morning face moisturizer, nighttime face moisturizer, and eye cream? If so, is there really a difference in all these products? Is there one I can use for my whole body? Is there really a difference between drugstore products and yummy smelling products that cost a fortune other than the smell and the container?

— Bonnie R.

Dear Bonnie: Stick with your drugstore lotions and creams. The differences among the different products you mention aren’t enough to make a dramatic difference in your skin (or your life!). Try drugstore brand CeraVe daytime face moisturizer for its sunscreen. CeraVe’s Moisturizing Lotion is even less expensive and can be used all over. The luxury brands spend a fortune on advertising which is mostly what you’re mostly paying for. Whatever product you choose, sunscreen is a must for exposed skin — even on cloudy, cold days!

Dear Answer Angel Ellen:

I have a favorite pair of black short boots. The back of the right heel has worn off due to driving, exposing the white plastic heel. (Why didn’t the boot maker use a black plastic heel?) I’ve tried black marker, black shoe polish, a black Sharpie, etc., and all wear off. Any ideas rather than spending $22 to get them re-heeled?

— Maggie A.

Dear Maggie: This suggestion

is not the most elegant fix, but I’ve tried it and it works. Use slightly overlapping strips of black electrical tape (horizontally) to cover the heels. The tape is slightly stretchy, covers the heel and doesn’t wear off.

Dear Answer Angel Ellen:

I’ve come to realize my cellphone is dictating my wardrobe. Since I no longer have to dress up for work, I always wear cargo pants or cargo shorts because the extra pocket is perfect for a cellphone. In fact, I don’t wear jeans anymore, same reason. Anything wrong with that? If there is, then where do I carry my phone?

— J.J.

Dear J.J.: In a casual work setting, which yours surely is if you can wear shorts on the job, there is absolutely nothing wrong with cargo pants or cargo

shorts. Cargo sweatpants and cargo skirts also are an option, though adding a lumpy phone, etc., to your thigh might not appeal to many women. Women also have purses and cross body phone holders, but options are far more limited for men. Front pockets sometimes are deep enough; hip pockets also work (if you are careful not to crack the screen by sitting on the phone). And there’s always the belt holder for phones — fabulously convenient, but some would declare that a Nerdy Dad/Mom look.

Now it’s your turn

Send your questions, rants, tips, favorite finds — on style, shopping, makeup, fashion and beauty — to answerangelellen@gmail. com.

DREAMSTIME Stick with your drugstore lotions and creams, says Answer Angel Ellen Warren.