Festive season is upon us fab girls, so it’s time to prepare yourself for the holiday parties, family photos and related events. You can try something new this year, be a bit more daring or stay within the classic and traditional approach. What matters is understanding the basics which, many have not been taught or exposed to in life, even at big ages. It’s never too late to learn what’s faux pas; the refined can see it clearly.
The two most common mistakes I see are choices in an evening bag to outerwear. Choosing the proper bag is key and investing in a classic to formal coat does wonders. A casual jacket, bubble coat or the like isn’t proper. A classic overcoat will carry you through many seasons, so consider it an investment rather than having the mindset of “I don’t go anywhere”. Life is the occasion. We have what we say we have, and we experience what we believe we deserve. There is power in words and mindset.
HANDBAGS AND CLUTCHES
Black Tie, Formal to Cocktail attire calls for an evening bag. There are many options to consider yet can be more difficult than one can expect depending on vision and expectation. That does not mean to default to anything outside of sleek, refined or classic. I repeat, please do not do this and wear evident designer with labels. Designer is fine; it’s the evident labels. It makes a woman look like she has no situational awareness, class or genuine exposure to certain demographics and events within life.
Social media does not always translate to real life. Just because you may see your favorite or popular influencer committing faux pas, please don’t do it. Without further ado, below are the most common culprits I see. They are not to be worn with formal and cocktail attire. Don’t be impulsive; save those pieces for another outing.
Faux Pas or Improper Choices
The choices below exude elegance and sophistication which, align to the formality of the event. It also gives your wardrobe range, allowing for you to wear to cocktail parties, weddings and galas. The key is to have fun, look good and feel confident. Style is personal, so always consider your personal preferences relative to what is deemed most proper.
Proper Choices
STYLE GUIDE
I am in the process of compiling a holiday edit which can be found here. Fab girls, you will find inspiration in certain pieces or may want the look. I will consider colors from traditional to trending and plus sizes.
Each look will have outerwear to provide visual example and inspiration. You can find additional options here and here. Incorporating preferences in color is also an option over black and taking risks for those who may want to veer outside of traditional to classic, while remaining within proper approach. Try to opt for at least knee length. If you choose to wear suiting, make sure the coat is longer than your suit jacket.
You can wear some formal to classic overcoats when casual, which goes back to seeing it as an investment. A casual coat does not offer such versatility. You should have a casual coat as well, so don’t think I mean it will be a one size fits all in terms of styling duality within your wardrobe. If you have suggestions or ideas in what you would like to see, please let me know.
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