Party Outfit Ideas
A party is the perfect venue for showcasing a new outfit, or just experimenting with pieces you already have in your closet. Remember that style is in the details, so don't be afraid to be meticulous. You want proportions that balance each other out, and to look polished, but not fussy. Don't be afraid of dressing up a bit. After all, it's a party.
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Birthday Party
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If it's your own birthday and your friends or family are taking you out, it's your turn to shine. Experiment with an exaggerated version of looks you're already comfortable with. It's your birthday, so you want to look and feel like yourself, only more glamorous. If you love dresses, look for something that sparkles. Don't take the venue into account, just keep in mind you want to look like the belle of the ball. Even if you're going to dinner at a local restaurant, there's no reason not to wear a cute dress with feminine details such as shimmer or ruffles. Add instant glamor to a dress you already own by adding metallic accessories like a silver clutch and silver high heeled sandals. If jeans are more your forte, opt for a fun blouse in a sumptuous fabric like satin, silk or chiffon. Like with your standard dress, metallic accessories will also add a fashion forward feel to this look.
For men, you want to stand out. After all, it's your day (or night). A button-up shirt, slacks and loafers create a pulled-together look that works for a dinner or club outing. If you're playing it low key, still wear a button-up, but jeans and boots work well if you're hitting a pub with friends or going to an arcade.
Casual Party
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A party with friends is usually casual, unless the invite reads otherwise. Instead of showing up in jeans and T-shirt (and you know people will be there in those things), add an edge to your look by opting for basic pieces that are dressed up. Jeans are fine, but go for an inky dark wash. A blouse should be body conscious and looks best in a bright jewel tone such as purple or magenta. If you feel black works best for you, add a bold metal necklace to create an interesting look. A peep-toe sandal looks great peeking out from skinny or wide leg dark jeans, but leather flats can also look stylish, as long as they're sleek. You can also throw on a standard fitted T-shirt, dark jeans and top them with a shrunken blazer accompanied by a statement necklace. This look is easy and affordable.
For men, consider the people you'll be around. If it's a professional crowd, a button-up shirt is welcomed, but can be worn with jeans versus slacks. Khakis are a good option, along with a polo shirt or linen button-up and boat shoes or casual loafers during the warmer seasons. Socks are optional. Think JFK when dressing for a casual party. You want to look cool and collected, but stylish.
Cocktail Party
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A cocktail party for work or with friends can be in two very different venues, so take into consideration where you'll be and who you'll be with. A slinky bandage dress that may look fabulous at a friend's party will be a very different story in front of your boss. For a work event, choose a sheath dress. The classic silhouette is ideal for many body shapes and can be dressed up with metallic accessories, or statement jewelry. If accessories are too fussy for you, choose a sheath in red or emerald, so you make a style statement without much effort. A dress that might be too sexy for an office shindig can also be subdued with a fitted blazer. For a friend's festivities, you can be a bit more bold and do a halter blouse and pencil skirt with heels or a body skimming dress. Keep it tasteful, but showing off some skin is acceptable.
Like women, men should play it safe if it's a work related cocktail party. A suit isn't necessary, but a sports jacket and trousers look nice. If it's in the evening, a dark suit is certainly appropriate. Wear dark socks, and keep shoes appropriate for what you're wearing. No boat shoes with your year round suiting please.
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