It's been a while and I've missed you all! Life happens but this blog was an outlet for me as well so here goes! I've been meaning to post on this subject for quite some time. In fact, every time I attend an event that is "formal" and I see everything that is NOT formal. Formal seems to intimidate because people think it means "expensive". But you can create formal looks on a budget. I know people bend the rules a lot but formal for women means a long gown and formal for men means a tuxedo. Simple as that. My rule of thumb with maintaining my formal wear wardrobe is to buy it without having an occasion to wear it. One of the best times to catch formal wear on sale is immediately after prom season or after the holiday season. Retailers are anxious to clear that space. You can also make a simple maxi dress formal by adding a pair of chandelier earrings and a fancy clutch. Be sure the dress is very simple (solid colored-black is always appropriate and slimming!). For men it's even simpler. Every grown man should own a good solid black suit. A nice white shirt and a solid black tie and voila you have the look of a tuxedo! If you attend at least one formal a wear it is worth it to go ahead and invest in a tuxedo. They actually are not that expensive and you will never have to rent again! Touches like a colored pocket square or a flower lapel pin make it uniquely yours. And PLEASE do not coordinate the tie and cummerbund with your date's dress! SO 1980s prom and SO not necessary! Classic black tie matches everything. Period. So now that we know what formal is....we must broach the subject of what formal IS NOT! Formal is not a suit in any color other than black. Not up for discussion. Just no. Now if you are stylish enough to pull off brocade or smoking jackets you already know what to do so this is not speaking to you. Formal is also NEVER without a jacket. So walking suits (basically a camp shirt with matching pants or as my friend Ouida calls them "sets") are NOT formal. Ever. Jeans (I don't care if they are True Religion) are not formal. Ever. Ladies tea length dresses are not formal. That is cocktail attire. I know many do it but formal means floor length gown. Sorry. So if your see the words "black tie" or "formal" please comply! Smooches!
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