My brother's best friend has a crush on me. Every time he comes over, he tries to sit by me or flirt with me.

Subtlety can be the best bet to avoid hurt feelings, but it doesn’t always get the message across. First off, don’t flirt back. Drop hints, like talking about how great it is that you can be friends (key word) with your bro’s buds. If he doesn’t get it? Be more direct or ask your brother to nicely clue him in. Tell him you like him as a friend, nothing more. If you’re worried about how he’ll take it, tell him you have a rule against dating your brother’s friends.

BY ANDREA T. ON 5/8/2008 9:02:00 AM 105 COMMENTS

My friend copies everything I do! I was flattered at first, but now I’m creeped out. She wears the same makeup, clothes, hair style, and even has the same crush! How do I tell her enough is enough?

Sure, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. But when you feel like your identity is being Xeroxed, those wise words fall flat. Subtly clue your friend in that she needs to develop her own sense of style. When you two shop, suggest she try out different looks. Talk her into a new ’do you think would flatter her face. If all else fails, stage an intervention with your wannabe Mini-me. Simply explain  that you’re not into matching get-ups and that you’re friends for a reason: You both like the uniqueness each has to offer. Hopefully, with a little nudge, your friend will gain the self-confidence to figure out who she is…and who she wants to crush on!

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BY ANDREA T. ON 5/1/2008 12:41:00 PM 164 COMMENTS

I like this boy, but he’s two years younger than I am! Shouldn’t I be crushing on someone more my own age?

When someone is 24 and her crush is 22, the age difference isn’t so much of a deal. If you’re younger, though, it can be a big contrast. Think about how much a girl changes from ages 11 to 13. Since guys mature slower, it’s possible your crush might not be up to your level. That said, it’d be a shame to pass on a guy who’s interesting, smart and cute just because of a number. There’s certainly nothing wrong with liking a younger dude—just be sure he doesn’t think all girls have cooties!

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BY ANDREA T. ON 4/24/2008 2:44:00 PM 248 COMMENTS

I want to buy some expensive sunglasses I really like. My mom won’t let me because she’s afraid I’ll lose or break them. But I’ll be careful, and I’m using my own money. What’s the deal?

As a girl who has lost, stepped on and run over several pairs of sunglasses, I get where your mom is coming from. At the same time, it’s satisfying to save up your money and splurge on something you must have. Tell your mom you get her concerns but that if something happens to the sunglasses, it’s your investment, your risk. Explain that, while you want to be responsible with your hard-earned money, you’d also like to spend a little on something you love. If your position doesn’t fly, search for a less expensive version of the shades.

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BY ANDREA T. ON 4/17/2008 8:44:00 AM 147 COMMENTS