Holiday invitations Survival Guide

If holiday invitations cause you dismay because you have nothing to wear and you don’t know where to begin-don’t despair. My name is Marilyn Wetston and I am “The Wardrobe Doctor”.

The Holiday season often means luncheons, cocktail parties, gala balls, and celebrations of all sorts. Each of us have the same dilemma. What should I wear? This is sometimes complicated by the fact that these functions happen right after a day at work, so there is no time to go home and transform.

Sue writes, I am invited to a charity cocktail reception that starts at 6 PM. It is work related, downtown and I live quite a distance away. I would like to use my navy suit and go directly from work to this function without going home to change. Any ideas?

Dear Sue, Good News. A work related cocktail party means that you can dress up a business suit and be appropriate for this reception.

To dress up any suit start with a non-business feeling underpinning. Depending on your own personal style this can be anything form a lingerie-like camisole to a satin tank top or bustier. In any case it isn’t too bulky to put in your bag or briefcase. Along with this add dressy earrings and if you like a necklace. A small evening bag, dress shoes and stockings will complete your transformation. Slip your makeup essentials into your bag so that you can freshen up. If you like glitz a shimmery scarf or wrap can further dress up your suit. As to a colour scheme you can stay monochromatic and add silver, gold, or gemstones to your navy. However, nothing wrong in playing with an accent colour of your choice. For example your underpinning can be a blush pink or a blatant fire engine red.

Accessories are the tools that punctuate a simple look. They add spice and can easily elevate a simple navy suit into cocktail attire. Each time you change your accent you have created a new look.

Ellie writes, I have been invited to a black tie event. I never wear skirts. Would it be appropriate to wear trousers to this event?

Dear Ellie, Simply put..yes. A tux look is fine for men or women at a black tie function. Try any evening pant with a dressy top and finish with a stole, wrap or evening jacket. Add your choice of evening accessories then step into your dancing shoes and enjoy!