Party Attire 101

With a different dress code on every invitation, how are you supposed to know what to wear.  Use this guide to decipher attire definitions, or when in doubt ask your host. 

1.  Black Tie indicates formal attire.  Women wear cocktail, long dresses, or dressy  evening separates.  Men wear tuxedos.

2.  Formal usually means the same as Black Tie.  Men might wear a less traditional tux and women will dress as they would for a black tie event.

3.  Black Tie Optional indicates a formal event.  Women wear cocktail, long dresses, or dressy evening separates.  Men may wear a tuxedo or a  dark suit and tie. 

4.  White Tie is the most dressy of evening wear.  Women wear long gowns.  Men wear a dinner jacket with tails and white tie, vest, and shirt.  White Tie is sometimes known as Ultra-formal. 

5.  Semi-Formal requires a cocktail or dressy dress for a woman and dark suit for a man.

6.  Business Formal is the same as semi-formal with the exception that women will often wear a dressy suit.

7.  Informal Attire calls for either semi-formal attire or a slightly less dressy version.

8.  Cocktail Attire is one of the most fun dress codes.  Women wear short, elegant dresses and men wear a dark suit.

9.  Dressy Casual is just a dressier version of casual.  For both men and women steer clear of jeans, shorts, t-shirts, and overall sloppy looks.

10.  Festive Attire usually dictates a semi-formal or informal event, and is seen around the holidays.  This is the time to add appropriate glitz and your holiday spirit.   

For more help deciding what to wear to a party, contact the Charleston Style Concierge or sign up for our monthly ezine full of great style advice.

Imagine waking each morning, walking to your closet, and choosing an outfit that makes you feel great. You put it on, accessorize, and in minutes, you are ready to walk out the door. Imagine you’re running late and have a dinner party to attend in one hour. You walk to your closet, stand in front of it, and quickly choose an outfit. Slip on the dress, slide on your stilettos, and you look like a million bucks. 

With a versatile wardrobe, getting dressed can really be this easy.

For those of you who think this is impossible without having a lot of money, let me reassure you, that is not the case.

In fact, creating a versatile wardrobe saves you money, time, and energy. When you have a versatile wardrobe that’s created to fit your lifestyle needs, you immediately eliminate all the headaches of trying to find something to wear.  

Having a clear idea of what you have and what you need will prevent you from spending money on items that you’ll never wear or wear only once. 

Christian Dior had it right when he said, “It’s not money that makes you well dressed, it’s understanding.”

The key is understanding how to mix and match pieces while creating your own style that fits your lifestyle.  Creating a versatile wardrobe takes time and energy. But it’s not as hard as you might think.

In fact,  you probably already have a good start with items you already own. Investing time and thought into creating a wardrobe that serves your lifestyle needs will produce results. And fast.

Feeling fabulous shouldn’t be a chore. When you create a versatile wardrobe, you’re investing in yourself, in who you want to be in this world, and how you want people to perceive you. So, have some fun with your clothes and feel great every time you walk out the door.

This is an excerpt from my latest style guide, 5 Steps to a Stress-Free and Versatile Wardrobe.  To read more from this great guide sign up for our mailing list at www.charlestonstyleconcierge.com and download 5 Steps to a Stress-Free and Versatile Wardrobe for F*R*E*E.

1.  How do I know what size belt to buy?

To determine your belt size add two inches to your waist size to know what size to buy.  This will center the buckle in the belt holes and give you a proper fit.

2.  How long is my tie supposed to be?

When tying your tie, aim for the end to hit the top of your belt buckle.

3.  Are my socks supposed to match my shoes?

Your socks should match your trousers, not your shoes.  The exception to the rule is when you wear jeans, match your sock to your shoe.

4.  Do my belt and shoes have to perfectly match?

No, they do not have to be the exact same color.  They should coordinate together.  To play it safe keep your belt and the shoes roughly the same color.

5.      Is it appropriate to go sockless?

If you aren’t going to wear socks make sure you are wearing a casual shoe, such as a casual sneaker or loafer, and that the occasion warrants casual attire.

If you have a question about what to wear, contact the Charleston Style Concierge for great style advice.

I’m excited to announce that one of my favorite designers, Spooney, is hosting an exclusive trunk sale to benefit the documentary film and cancer initiative, Awaken the Dragon.  The trunk sale will take place November 5th and 6th from 11am -4pm at 918 Lansing Dr., Suite F, Mt. Pleasant, SC. 

Come experience the irresistible moisture wicking fabric that spoons you in comfort and style.  The trunk sale will feature special savings on overstocks, samples, and discontinued items.   

Learn more about Spooney

For active women who fantasize about wearing their PJs all day, Spooney®, may just make their dreams come true. An innovative, “wear ever” tagless collection, combines the benefits of high-performance active wear with the comfort of pajamas. A “Spooney Girl” can snuggle, go out for a latte, a night on the town or catch a plane all in the same attire.

Janice Fetter, founder of the company, was introduced to high- performance fabrics on a bike tour and the idea for Spooney surfaced. Combining the best qualities of both, she set out to design a garment made from easy-care, moisture-management fabric that still maintained a soft, natural, “cozy” feel. The light-as-air fabric “spoons” the body, putting the wearer in a “pajama state of mind” yet ever ready for the high performance, high-active lifestyle so typical of today’s women.

For more information about this event please contact Spooney or the Charleston Style Concierge.

Katherine McDonald, the owner and designer of local fashion label LulaKate, decided to premiere her fall collection in a recession-conscious style.  She will be hosting a trunk show and donating 25% of the revenue to Dress For Success of Charleston.  DFS is an organization that provides disadvantaged women with the wardrobe and skills needed to acquire a job.  The event is happening Wednesday, October 29, from 5:00-8:00pm in LulaKate’s flagship boutique at 324 King Street.

McDonald hopes the evening will live up to the label’s “Fabulous, Fun and Flirty” motto.  In addition to the exclusive first look at LulaKate’s latest collection, the event will feature style tips from Lee Heyward of Charleston Style Concierge, champagne, and dessert. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet some of the inspiring women who have changed their lives with the help of DFS.  The glamorous evening is designed to encourage longtime customers and newcomers alike to grab a friend and head to LulaKate for a new wardrobe and a great cause. 

Fall is here so its time to edit your closet and properly care for summer garments leaving your wardrobe rotation.  You can protect your clothing investment just by taking the time to properly care for them as you switch to a new season.  Fabrics are delicate and can change or deteriorate depending on how they are stored.  You have worked hard to create a versatile and fabulous wardrobe, so take the time to read these steps on how to prolong the life of your clothing.

Launder or dry clean items being put away until next season.   You will avoid stains that set into your clothes.  Many stains like perspiration, clear beverages, and perfume are almost invisible but can be a detriment to your clothing because they attract bugs like moths and carpet beetles. 

Store your clothing in cloth garment bags.   Cloth garment bags allow clothing to breathe, contrary to their plastic counter parts.  Remove plastic bags placed on clothing from the dry cleaners.  Gases from decomposing plastic can be absorbed by your clothing causing it to yellow.

Opt for cedar instead of mothballs.  Mothballs are toxic and smell terrible.  The smell is very difficult to get out of clothing.  Opt for cedar which repels moths with its scent.  Replace cedar every year because it loses its scent.

Keep clothing out of humid environments.  Clothes should be stored in a cool and dry environment.   Humidity leads to mildew on fabric which is difficult to fully remove. 

Empty your pockets.  Check your pockets before putting clothing away for a season.  You will remove any potential hazardous items and may even find that key you’ve been looking for.

For more tips on how to edit your closet or to learn more about prolonging the life of your clothes contact the Charleston Style Concierge.

1.  Dark Denim Jean

Why?  Dark Denim can be dressed up for an evening out or dressed down for a casual Saturday.

2.  Black Trouser

Why?  A great black pant can take you from the office to cocktails.

3.   White Button Down Shirt

Why?  This classic staple suits your professional and casual style with a very chic look.

4.  Structured Skirt in Neutral Color

Example:  Black Pencil Skirt

Why? Use this skirt for a power meeting, a hot date, or a casual brunch.

5.  Structured Jacket in Neutral Color

Why?  Structured Jackets make any outfit look more put together. 

6.  Camisoles for Layering

Why?  White, black, and a few colored camisoles can make a revealing shirt office appropriate or add a pop of color for a more interesting outfit.

7.  Tops with Color & Pattern

Why?  Add fun and interest to your wardrobe with color and pattern that suits your personal style.

8.  Wrap Dress

Why?  This universally flattering dress can be dressed up with heels or dressed down with flats.

9.  Neutral Leather Handbag

Why?  Pull together your outfit with a great handbag large enough to carry your daily essentials but chic enough to take your from work to cocktails.

10.  An Unexpected Accessory

Why?  Have a little fun with a pop of color from a red shoe, a patent leather belt, or whatever accessory speaks to your personal style.

It is difficult to get inspired by Fall’s great fashion with temperatures still hitting 90 degrees in the middle of September.  For those of us in warmer climates, fall fashion means thinking outside the box.  There are some easy ways to participate in the excitement of fall fashion while accepting the reality of the climate you live in. 

The easiest way to welcome fall into a scorching climate is to play with color.  Participate in a fall color trend.  This season you will find beautiful fall color palettes with many colors to suit your personal style. Choose from subtle autumn hues and vibrant jewel tones.  Pair these colors with muted neutrals like chocolate brown or shitake gray.

Change the look of your dresses.  Trade in your sundress for a sophisticated wrap dress in a rich color or pattern.  While the weather is still warm wear it with flats, as it gets cooler, add boots and a structured jacket for a new look.  Change the look of your classic summer dress with a sweater or tights.  Wear the dress with tights and heels, or layer with a sweater to turn the dress into a skirt.

Make a statement with bold accessories in rich fall colors.  Give your boring black and brown handbags a rest.  A rich jewel tone bag makes a statement while acting as a go to neutral.  Upgrade your flip flops for sassy flats and comfy heels.  This season the low-heeled shoe is both comfortable and chic. 

For more ways to find great fall style contact Charleston Style Concierge.  Let us help you with all of your style needs.

Jewel Tone Color Palette:

Ever feel guilty about buying another pair of shoes?  Not anymore!  Owning a lot of shoes in differing styles and heel heights is good for your health and style.  Marlene Reid, a podiatrist in Westmont, Illinois, and a spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association, justifies your shoe fetish in an article from Real Simple magazine.

The Podiatrist Says:

·        Size yourself up. Have your feet measured every few years — especially after a pregnancy or if your weight has changed. “Don’t just routinely buy the size you’ve always worn,” says Reid, because wearing shoes that are too small can exacerbate foot problems, like bunions, corns, and hammertoes.

·        Change your shoes. You shouldn’t wear the same heel height every day. “Even half an inch of difference changes the pressure on the foot and stretches out the Achilles,” says Reid. Take that as a good excuse to buy those cute flats or kitten heels.

·        Banish bare feet. When you go barefoot or wear shoes that have no arch support or motion control (like flip-flops), the plantar fasciae, the connective tissue that runs under the feet to the heels, can get overworked. The result is often heel pain.

Get more great tips from medical specialists from Real Simple.  For more information on great shoes for your personal style contact Charleston Style Concierge.

No, a closet edit is the foundation to great style and serves as an educational tool.  The fact that your closet is neat and tidy when you finish is an extra bonus.  Editing your closet regularly is the key component to making your clothing function for you and your lifestyle.  You should edit your closet on a seasonal basis.  By working seasonally, you will find items you forgot you had, think of new ways to wear what you already own, and keep your closet neat and organized.
 

A closet edit can be done on your own, or with a professional.  A professional stylist will help you learn the best way to dress your body and is instrumental in making you feel put together and confident every time you walk out the door.  No matter if you are doing an edit on your own or with a stylist here are a few tips to get the greatest benefit out of your closet.

FACT:  We wear 20% of our wardrobe 80% of the time.

That fact makes it clear why so many of us stand in their closet staring at a sea of clothes wondering why they have nothing to wear.  You do not have to be part of that fact.  Set a goal to develop a wardrobe that meets your style goals and functions for you. 

Ask yourself a few questions about your lifestyle.  On a typical day, where are you going?  What are you doing?  What percentage of time is spent doing those things?  Which of those activities cause you the most stress while getting dressed?  Your answers will uncover your wardrobe needs and challenges.  For instance, if the largest percentage of your time is spent in a jean-free workplace, do you really need 50 pairs of jeans?

Begin by focusing on one category within your wardrobe.  I typically recommend pants or bottoms to my clients because most people have fewer bottoms than tops.  Bottoms are important basics that will be used over and over to make different outfits.  Start wherever you like and examine each piece of clothing.  Does it fit?  Don’t know?  Try it on.  Have you worn it recently?  Does it fit with the categories you determined for your lifestyle?  Does it meet your style goals?  I realize this is a lot of questions to ask about one little piece of clothing, but it is necessary to create a fashionable wardrobe that functions for you.

As you work through your wardrobe create three piles; give-away, throw-away, and to be repaired.  Make notes as you edit your closet to help you determine where you may have wardrobe holes, and what pieces you may be missing to complete your style goals.  Continue working through your entire closet until you have given each piece proper attention and put it back into the closet in an orderly fashion. 

Now sit back and reap the rewards of a job well done.  Getting dressed is now easier because you know what you have, where it is, and how it fits.  Take your closet edit notes with you on your next shopping trip.  Use those notes to make smart shopping choices that can be incorporated into your existing wardrobe and lifestyle.

Find a time to edit your closet.  Be honest, be creative with new outfits, and have fun!  For more information about editing your closet, or to learn more about hiring a professional to assist you, contact the Charleston Style Concierge.