special occasion dressing (that won’t make you feel like a doily)
J Kara maxi dress with embellished jacket
I’ve received a few requests in recent weeks for suggestions for Special Occasion dressing. Yes, we’re coming up on that time of year…weddings, graduations, other celebrations that may actually involve printed invitations received in matching envelopes. (Or maybe a cruise with one or more Formal Nights.) As someone who gets easily flummoxed by special occasion dressing (on those rare occasions it rears its head in my world), my inclination is to sidestep the topic entirely, but perhaps it’s a good time to review options, as our friends’ kids are getting to that age…
As mentioned in last week’s post on dressy low-heeled shoes, we no longer live in a world of strict and clearly delineated dress codes (unless one travels in circles where official state functions are a regular occurrence). Unless an event is indicated as White or Black Tie, what’s appropriate may be open to at least some degree of interpretation. Your region, social circle, time of day and your own comfort levels will all factor in. There’s more room for personal style than ever, and as long as the overall look reads as dressy, you should be fine.
It’s not that there aren’t plenty of options in the stores; certainly you can throw a rock and hit something that looks “dressy.” The trick is finding something that is chic, sophisticated and doesn’t immediately bring to mind furniture upholstery or one of those crocheted toilet paper roll covers. Which means that I tend to shy away from the usual floral prints and all-over lace numbers. For some, sleeves are a must, while others in warmer climates may prefer sleeveless tops. I’ve tried to include styles that won’t require complicated undergarments, and are at least knee-length on women of average height. My own preference is for simplicity of styling and details. And I’ve looked for pieces that will travel well.
The Gown
See above, and I’ve included some in the widget at the bottom of the post. It’s the most formal option, usually reserved for White or Black Tie events, or mothers of brides or grooms. Though this may an occasion-specific and the least flexible option, sometimes only a gown will do. Here’s a very pretty plus sized option in a sophisticated color:
LBD and then some. left: lovely detailing on top | right: a bit of whimsy
A cocktail dress with some statement jewelry will work for most evening events. It doesn’t have to be black.
Daytime Dressy
left: interesting draping | right: bold color
My instinct for daytime events is to keep embellishment on clothes themselves to a minimum, and stick to simple designs. You can use jewelry and accessories to zing up the look. I’d avoid anything that looks too much like it’s meant for the office (e.g. grey or navy sheath).
The Not-A-Dress
twirling optional, though you may really want to.
If structured dresses aren’t your thing, or if your style leans more bohemian, you do have options. Picture a skirt like the one above paired with a white silk blouse or top. Knot that button-front blouse at the waist, add a lacy camisole underneath and keep an extra button undone. (Remember too that the shoes and accessories can change the look entirely.) You can keep the top streamlined and add an interesting wide belt. Or accent with your favorite vintage silver and turquoise jewelry. Wide leg or palazzo pants in a soft, fluid fabric would also work with this concept.
Or for evening events, you can always eschew the skirt entirely and go the Catherine Deneuve route with a feminine tuxedo.
Shrug It Out
Perhaps that otherwise-perfect dress or top is sleeveless. Or your event may extend from a warm afternoon into a cool evening, or your experience of hotel ballrooms is that you’re always seated directly underneath the air-conditioning vent set permanently to High. A shrug can be just the thing add some unobtrusive coverage.
If conditions aren’t too warm, you can always wear a tuxedo-style jacket open over your dress for a bit of that French masculine/feminine glam.
Do you have any Special Occasions coming up? Do you have a tried-and-true outfit or look that you rely on for these occasions?
MORE SPECIAL OCCASION OPTIONS:
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