dear annie

I have a great Prada dress with a rounded square neck. The problem is that it is quite low cut so that any bra I wear shows the "middle" bit. Is there a bra that gives uplift but that is cut very low at the front and isn't a Wonderbra, which I hate? I am desperate as I plan to wear it lots over the festive season.

Rebecca, Brixton, London

There is a perfect bra for you by Malizia which costs pounds 65 and is available from Harvey Nichols. It comes in cream and black, is very simple with what I can only describe as "stand alone" cups.

Three winters ago I bought a pair of wonderful boots from Blacks of Holborn. They are yellow Gore-Tex with moulded soles, and were presumably on sale there as apres-ski boots. But they are not huge and galumphing. They come mid-calf and are great over trousers, for meeting the hem of my winter coat, driving in, walking in ... They have practically been my trademark. The problem is that the Gore-Tex has ceased to be waterproof and Blacks look at me blankly when I ask if they have any more. The only label on the boots is "Made in France". It's a tall order, but do you have any idea where I could look? I shop in London, Bath or Salisbury.

Sally, London

It is not possible to make the Gore-Tex waterproof again, as the Gore- Tex is like a sock that has been inserted into the boot. You may wish to try Snow & Rock, which stocks apres-ski ankle boots by Saloman in suede and cordura fabric with a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane and rubber sole. They are perfect for walking and wet weather. Prices are from pounds 69.95. They do mail order on 01932 569569, or you can visit their London store at 150 Holborn, EC1. Clarks do a waterproof lace-up ankle boot in black or brown leather which costs pounds 65. They have a grip sole and 1-inch heel. Call 0990 85886 for stockists. K shoes also have a "rainsplash" boot which is made of Aquatex, their equivalent to Gore-Tex. It has a zip front, and is mid-calf length with a grip sole and 11/2-inch heel; pounds 55. Telephone 0990 665335 for stockists. Sorry there's only one in that lot that's mid- calf. I hope you find something to suit.

A few weeks ago I purchased a wonderful party dress. It is black nylon with a swirly pattern. The problem? It is fairly see-through, which isn't a problem per se, but as I move, my nipples show through the swirly bits and I don't think that's quite right. I think I read somewhere about sticky bits you could stick over your nipples so I could stick the dress to my nipples thus ensuring the swirly bits stay there. Where can I get some?

Iona, Chichester

I haven't a clue. Plus I wouldn't be too happy about recommending something like that. I mean, if it were strong enough to really stick, what happens if someone or something pulls at your dress (you know how parties get)? Would you like to live with no nipples? Yuk. Why don't you just wear some "nude" underwear? Try the Cosmetic range by Sock Shop. They have a strapless bra at pounds 9.99 in sizes 34b-36b; with straps pounds 10.99, sizes 34a-36b. High- leg briefs to match pounds 5.99 or pack of two g-strings pounds 8.99, sizes 8-16. Tel: 0171 355 3673 for stockists.

I have just been reading your column (1 Dec) and was intrigued by the note from Christine (asking for a baseball hat with ponytail attached). I have just been on holiday in Oz and came upon a highly unusual pharmacy in Noosa Heads, Queensland. This pharmacy sells more hats than drugs, and I bought the most unbelievably hilarious tea-cosy hat which has long thick black plaits attached which dangle from the back. I bought one (one size only); it is very loosely elastic, which means it fits my enormous head beautifully, but it looks equally good on my six-year-old nephew. I have just called them (Noosa Heads Pharmacy, tel 00 61 75 474 9733, fax 00 61 75 447 3298). They will send one anywhere in Australia for A$27.99 plus A$5 p+p. I didn't think to ask if they do baseball hats with grey pony tails, but it wouldn't surprise me if they do. I have photos of the hat worn by myself and the six-year-old. If Christine is interested I would be happy to send her a picture directly or via you. I can assure you, the hat really is groovy and has caused normally reserved people to collapse with mirth.

David Gardner, London W6.

PS: Thank you for your very full reply to my query about shopping consultants (10 November). I will certainly take a deep breath and go for one or more of the places you mention. However, what I had in mind was a day out with an independent adviser who would start by looking me up and down (and also take a look at my existing wardrobe), instantly know what was needed and which shops to go to, then leap into the minicab I'd hired for the day, zoom round the shops with me and collect a cheque from me, leaving me kitted out for several years. I'm not especially rich but would rather spend a few thousand every 10 years than a hundred or two every month which many teenagers seem to manage and which averages out at more smackers per year than me. The adviser's fee would be well worth it, but do such exist?

Dear David, you are such a regular, faithful reader that I had to reproduce your letter in its entirety. I thought it would make people laugh before Christmas. Have you been at the sherry a bit early? Thank you for the tip about the hat. I am sure that anyone in Australia who is looking for such a hat can now glide peacefully into 1997. British readers will just have to get a friend in Oz to get one for them. And yes, independent shopping advisers do exist. Come forth and speak up and I shall put you in touch with David and his charming ways (and wallet).

PS: David, you know that I would come and look you up and down myself, but what with my beloved still being away, it would be rather imprudent, I feel.