Formal fete? Opera night? What to wear!

admin — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 12:36:49 +0000

Our friend Lisa D, who works closely with the EP Opera recently posed the question, "What does one wear to the opera? or a black tie event if you can't afford a tux?" We thought it was a GREAT question! People often refrain from attending such events because of the intimidating thought of looking under-dressed and not being to afford Hugo Boss or Armani. And sure, we all love big brand names and status but remember, YOU make the clothes...the clothes don't make you.

We've compiled a list of wonderful items for men and women (all under $50) to help doll you up for the opera or that next fancy fete.

Tune in to 1150 AM today at 1p.m. (mountain standard time) or stream online at TalkRadio1150.com to hear us chat with our good friend, Lisa D about dressing up on a budget!

Dress Shoes, Kohl's

For the less-formal events, add a V neck to your suit for a sexy, casual look.
V Neck, Kohl's

Add a bow tie to a blazer and dark slacks (or denim) for a preppy look.
We think this is so adorable, reminds us of our stylish friend, Farzad of TMFB
Bow Tie, Topman

Add some texture to your look by pairing a velvet blazer with some dark slacks.
We suggest pairing it up with a charcoal v neck or a black dress shirt.
Velvet Blazer, Forever 21

Add a skinny tie for a modern-day Don Draper look.
(We promise there isn't a woman who doesn't love him).
Pair up your skinny tie with a fitted, gray suit.
You can also pair up your skinny tie with a
v neck sweater, blazer, dark denim, and some nice dress shoes.
Skinny Tie, Forever 21

You can never go wrong with a simple black dress, it's a great canvas on which to accessorize based on your personal style.

Black dress, ASOS

Pearls lend a hint of elegance to any look, while a necklace several strands, like this one, keep an outfit from looking outdated or too conservative.

Pearls, Forever 21

Accessorize based on your own taste. Go modern and edgy with a statement cuff in a cool texture, or a bit more whimsical with gold bangles and loose locks.

Cuff, ASOS

Bangles, Forever 21

Make sure you balance your jewelry. Pair daintier earrings with a chunkier necklace or bold ring, or chandelier earrings with a bare neck and wristfull of bangles.

Earrings, Forever 21

Have fun with your handbag. Go for a neutral color in a fun texture (this one has a subtle sparkle).

Shoes, Piperlime

There are plenty of inexpensive options when it comes to the shoes. Payless often partners up with upscale designers and affordable, fashionable footwear.

Shoes, Payless

-C & J.

The Rest is Just Icing » what to wear to a formal event

Formal fete? Opera night? What to wear!