I was recently perusing Preston Bailey’s blog (he’s so creative and talented) and came across this blog post – Vendors, What You Wear Matters. Of course, this is right up my alley so I read it as well as all the reader comments (the comments section is mighty interesting). The main question that was asked at the end of the post was: What do you think is the proper way to dress when you’re working an event? I’d like to give a few tips on exactly what you should wear that is: professional, appropriate, functional, and (yes) stylish. Before I do that though, I’d like to share a great tip that was given in one of Preston Bailey’s follow up posts: “Rule number one in our industry, giving great service is about NOT attracting attention to ourselves. Our events should always be about our clients and their guests!” (Preston’s Blog, March 21, 2012) I think this is great advice and a rule I’m highlighting as I share some event-appropriate tips with you. Tip #1: When in doubt, ask your client what is appropriate attire for the event If you’re directly involved in most of the planning, as a wedding/event planner would be, it’s perfectly ok to ask what the dress code is for the event. It shows initiative and thought on your part and will probably give your client an additional level of confidence in you. By doing this, you will know whether formal, business casual, casual, or other types of attire is appropriate. If you’re uncertain of how formal an event is (and you didn’t take the opportunity to ask), always err on the side of more professional than less professional. For ladies, this may be as simple as throwing on a suit jacket or blazer on top of your outfit. For gentlemen, you can never go wrong with a suit. Tip #2: Opt for a look that is conservative and neutral… it doesn’t have to be boring though You’re not at your client’s event to make a major fashion statement but rather to support their event and help make it the best it can possibly be. With that said, I’d suggest you find a look that follows the rule of providing great service without attracting attention to yourself. Without knowing the type of event you’re working on, I’d suggest the following: A dressy suit – depending on the type of event, you probably want to opt for something that is slightly dressier than what one would wear in a corporate setting. Perhaps that means you need to find a suit with a great cut or more formal material. For ladies, a skirt suit is perfectly fine, just make sure the skirt ends right at your knee and properly fits your curves. Again, you want to attract attention for your great work, not your great legs! Find the right neutral for you – a black suit may not be best for the event or for you (you do want
A handbag – a MUST-HAVE to complete a professional look
I’m always curious, amused, and amazed when I see a woman who looks professional and put-together…. and carries a canvas bag. I just don’t understand it. For me, this totally detracts from the overall look. A key staple that every woman should have in her wardrobe is a good-quality, classic handbag. I’m a firm believer in investing (what you can afford) in this key wardrobe accessory/essential, is going to make you look more organized, professional, and – of course – stylish. By investing in a streamlined, classic piece, you’ll not only look on-point for more than one season but you’ll also keep $$ in your pocket (or in your new handbag… teehee). One thing that I always encourage my clients to do, when purchasing a new handbag, is opt for something that has colour and a light pattern yet can act as a neutral as well. Here’s a quick round up of six handbags that I love for Spring/Summer… and not just for this year but many other Springs/Summers as well (honesty, who doesn’t want to save some $$). Pebbled Leather Double Handle Satchel Eden Small Satchel Harper Anna Burlap Bag Navy Pashli Satchel Cambridge Satchel Company- Purple Satchel Nelly You must have a professional handbag to complete a work-appropriate look. Hope these bags inspire you to start looking for that piece that completes you… I mean completes your look… ok, I really mean completes you.
Booties: Hurry, hurry before they’re gone!
You know I’m no advocate for super-consumerism but I am an advocate of smart shopping. Here are some GREAT end-of-season sales on booties. There’s still a bit of time to wear them this year or, if you live in a warmer climate, just save these beauties for next year. It’s really a win-win and – for these options – a no-brainer! SAVEN They were $165 (CAD) but are now on sale for $59.99 (CAD)! Crazy. This chic bootie is stylish and versatile (yay!). It`s going to go with most items in your wardrobe. They are a wedge bootie with a 3 ½ inch heel so they’ll be pretty comfortable. Clift Bootie They were originally $185 (USD) but are now on sale for $129.50 (USD). One of my new favourite loves is a Jeffery Campbell boot. This stacked heel is stylish and very sturdy. I love the dark green as an alternative to black. They would be my everyday casual bootie. Harness Bootie These booties were originally $392.45 (CAD) and are now on sale for $235.47 (CAD). I love the colour and I love the buckle detail on these booties. They are the perfect mix of low-key casual and urban style. The heel is low enough so that you can walk around town and show off these pretties. Cami Flat Leather Boot They were originally $597.59 (CAD) and are now on sale for $356.36 (CAD). These shoes were definitely meant for walking… there’s no question about it. These are casual enough to wear while running around with the kids or taking in a Saturday afternoon art show. I’m really digging these ones. Enjoy!