Tips for fashionable holiday dressing

Dear Heloise: It is holiday party season, and I wanted to share some hints about dressing up without busting the budget.

■ Basic black is a good starting point, but I go easy on “pops” of color.

■ “Subtle” is the key word. You can use a basic black dress or pants set over and over just by changing accessories: a scarf, blouse, shoes or earrings.

■ Trends — I avoid them. A ripped neckline doesn’t look chic at a party.

■ I look in the men’s department for upscale T-shirts — they are cheaper than in the ladies’ department.

■ Party clothes have to be comfortable. Chances are, you’ll be on your feet for a long time, and itchy clothes are a no-go.

■ Look for bargains at secondhand and resale shops. I can find high-quality designer pieces at good prices.

Dear Readers: Let’s get your home in shape for friends and family with a deep cleaning of your living areas. Here are some major areas to cover:

■ Vacuuming under all furniture and rugs is a good way to start. Wipe down and dust the baseboards, and dust the ceiling fans.

■ Following the manufacturer’s instructions, moisturize any leather furniture, and buff and dust wood furniture.

■ Check labels and refresh window treatments and draperies. If you have them, wash artificial plants to make them pretty again.

■ Flip the mattress and consider new pillows, pillowcases and sheets.

These hints should refresh your home for company!

Dear Heloise: Very often, I would run out of the house without my phone because it was charging in another room. Now I put a sticky note on top of my purse that says “phone” to remind me to grab it.

I also have one for “water” to remind me to take the water in the fridge.

Dear Heloise: I’ve worked in human resources for over 20 years, and I have a piece of advice for job applicants: Please do not have a friend or family member call a place where you once worked and pretend to be a potential employer doing a background check. I know everyone is curious, but there are some serious problems that might knock you out of the running for a job you really want:

■ No matter how much someone wants to help you, it’s entirely possible he or she will ask illegal questions or get too inquisitive about your work history. This sets off a red flag.

■ Don’t assume you can sue a former employer just because your friend heard negative information from the person he or she spoke to. Your friend’s word will not hold up in court, especially if the information is true.