Dear Readers: BUTTER OR MARGARINE — what’s your preference? Here are some hints to help:

One tablespoon of butter has about 100 calories and 7 grams of saturated fat.

The same amount of margarine has around 70 calories and 2.5 grams of saturated fat.

Butter sometimes gets a bad rap because it’s made from cow’s milk and is heavy in saturated fat. Consumption of lots of saturated fat can lead to heart disease.

Margarine is made from vegetable oil, and it has less saturated fat, but margarine can contain trans fat, which also can increase your cholesterol and your likelihood of a cardiovascular condition.

Expert researchers typically agree that either butter or margarine is fine in moderation. See what your doctor recommends, and always read the nutrition information on the label.

— Heloise

Dear Heloise: I wonder if black patent leather shoes are seasonal? I remember getting new black patent leather shoes as a child! — Barbara Y., via email

Barbara, shiny patent leather shoes, bags and belts can be classic staples of your wardrobe all year long. Patent leather used to be relegated to formal occasions, but today, patent leather is appropriate for all seasons and situations!

Cleaning patent leather is a cinch: wipe with a dry microfiber cloth.

To lessen a scratch, daub on a tiny amount of rubbing alcohol, and buff gently.

— Heloise