Dear Mistress Maeve,

I am seeing a new (TREMENDOUSLY WONDERFUL - finally - YAY) guy and we've been serious for a few months. I know he likes lingerie, and I want to put something on for him. Is it wrong to use lingerie bought for another man from the past? I will find the time to purchase a new racy little number, but until then (and maybe for a romantic weekend coming up soon), can I just recycle the stuff? I'm sure some people would argue that there's little chance he would know I owned this stuff previously, but my man is observant, and I'm a slob, so there's a chance he's seen my on-hand wares peeking out of my dresser already.

Signed,

Reluctant Recycler

*****

Dear Reluctant Recycler,

Unless you were living under a rock in April, you know that Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, married Catherine Middleton in a royal wedding that took over the world's media. Since the nuptials, the press has dubbed Middleton the "Pauper's Princess," revering her for consistently making public appearances in garb worn on previous royal outings; she even greeted Michelle Obama wearing a $340 department store frock. What's my point? If the Duchess of Cambridge can recycle outfits to meet celebrities and heads of state, you can certainly rewear your underthings on a romantic weekend getaway with your man. If your guy notices or comments, let him know that he's more than welcome to buy you some new lingerie. Until then, you'll be parading around in last year's collection.

Obviously, you'll want to make sure you've properly laundered your satin, silk and lace - always hand wash in cold water with mild detergent for best results. Soak your underthings for three minutes (any longer and even the mildest detergent can cause damage) and be sure never to wring lingerie - you'll cause creases that will be difficult to get out.

And remember, just because you live in Vermont doesn't mean you have to recycle everything. Bring your gently used lingerie on your romantic getaway weekend, but also be sure to buy some new items when you have the time and cash - you're starting a new relationship, and that certainly merits a few new frilly skivvies.

All laced up,

mm