I just got back from a quick trip to western New York, where I celebrated my sister’s engagement. The centerpiece of the weekend was a snazzy penthouse party, and cocktail attire was a must.
In years past, I avoided packing formalwear for out-of-town events. Instead, I would typically head to the mall in my destination city with a mission to procure a cheap, fast-fashion outfit — all so I could avoid the stress of packing.
I’ve since abandoned the buy-on-the-fly philosophy — I’d rather spend short weekend trips brunching with friends/family than searching for a party dress under duress.
For my sister’s engagement party, I was inspired by Carolina Herrera — specifically her minimalistic uniform of sophisticated separates. (Click here to see her trademark black skirt and white shirt combo.) The outfit was culled from consignment the $40 Manolo Blanks), outlets (the $50 silk skirt) and retail (the $100 shirt).
My aim was to be quietly classic. The silk maxi and crisp French-cuffed shirt were elegant, sober and NOT flashy. (I’m no Emily Post, but the bride should ALWAYS be the sartorial supernova.)
My sister dove headfirst into her bridal role with a Vera Wang dress she snagged on one of our consignment shopping trips this summer — proof that shopping consignment stores can pay enormous dividends for any event, whether formal or fun. (I really wish I had looked for a consignment wedding gown instead of paying full price!)
On a final note, I’ve long avoided wearing black-and-white outfits to cocktail outfits, for fear of being mistaken as a member of the hors d’oeuvres brigade. A couple sartorial cues will minimize the chances of mistaken identity: With lots of pearls and a big swipe of red lipstick, no one will ask you for a refresher on their G&T.
