What to wear that's 'dressed up' but casual?

ButterflyLady

I don't go out often, but I am going out for dinner with a friend on Wednesday, just to a local restaurant, nothing fancy. I never feel I dress right for this kind of thing - I want to feel like I made an effort, but not look ridiculously dressy against all the other patrons, who may be in formal, straight-from-work suits or can't-be-bothered-to-cook-tonight casual clothes!

I was thinking of wearing my high purple patent pumps, because I love them and haven't worn them in a while - maybe with dark jeans (need to check PPL with these heels) - but then what on top?

Suggestions would be gratefully received!

I am posting and running as I've been at the computer for an hour or so, but I'll be back later/tomorrow, and should be able to manage some photos of possible outfits then, too.

11 years ago

Dressing

12 replies

Latest reply was from ButterflyLady

krishnidoux

Veteran

To wear casual with a touch of dressed-up, I think it's best to concentrate on one or two fancy items and dress them down with the rest. You are on the right track in my mind with the patent shoes + clean jeans.
On top, you could wear:

- A cute top in a nicer fabric, possibly print, like a sleeveless/short sleeves blouse with a flattering collar cut, and top it with a more classic cut jacket such as a suit jacket in a darker shade such as dark blue or grey.

- A tee-shirt in a softer fabric, a couple of gold chains (thin or thick), and an interesting cropped jacket. I mean like leather or something with interesting details.

- A crisp preppy shirt like Angie's BB shirts, worn un-tucked, topped with a more classic jacket; add an unexpected accessory such as a purse in a punchy colour, a hat or a brooch on the jacket.

11 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

I was going to suggest dressing up jeans so we are on the same wavelength. Have a lovely time with your friend!

11 years ago

(website)

Veteran

I was also on the same page of jeans with statement shoes and a dressy top of some kind. I'd personally go for some shine if you have it - sequins or silk or satin maybe?

11 years ago

lyn*

(website)

Veteran

I sometimes go for jeans + simpler top with some kick-butt earrings

11 years ago

Traci

Veteran

I was going to suggest a simple tshirt with a statement necklace or earrings. I like to have atleast one dressed down piece in an outfit if I want it to feel casual. Since the jeans and shoes are on the dressier end I'd go with a nice tshirt for balance and then a fun chunky necklace or bold earrings for an eye catching element.

11 years ago

Anonymous

Yes, if your jeans are long enough, the heels sound really nice. Dinner is the place to wear them, because you can sit down, lol! Have a great time!

11 years ago

jayne

Veteran

I vote on the simple shirt and jacket with fab earings suggestion.

11 years ago

Kiwichik

Veteran

I kind of like Traci's suggestion of a simple T & statement jewellery

11 years ago

ButterflyLady

(website)

Veteran

Thank you ladies, all your ideas sound fab, and LOL at Clare - that's exactly what I was thinking!

Last night I tried on the jeans with the heels, and they were fine with them ... BUT I have such issues with jeans, I don't really feel that they suit me that well, and I feel more comfortable in pants, to be honest. I have a long rise, short waist and a fullish bust, and the fit of most jeans really emphasises my weird proportions. Hmm.

I've also discovered that I don't have wardrobe holes so much as a huge gaping wardrobe crevasse! I don't have any 'nice' t-shirts or tops, nothing embellished, no bold earrings or decent jackets - I have two jackets - one is a grey linen blazer style, the other is a black blazer. I don't wear button down shirts because I have a full bust and wide shoulders and they make me feel really restricted.

Later today, when I've run all my errands, I will take some photos of possible outfits - I have some wide leg black pants that may work with the heels. I also have a purple satin top - I tried it on last night with the jeans and didn't like it, but it may work better with the pants. I think I've worn it several times when meeting up with this friend though.

I feel really bad - I've been AWOL for ages, then back I pop with a question and then I don't take up any of your wonderful responses!

11 years ago

Mander

(website)

Veteran

Hmm, I was imagining maybe a maxi dress with some sort of jacket. This is, of course, climate/comfort level dependent, but this seems like the right kind of occasion. It's semi-dressy, so a dress is not out of place, but it's also casual, so the beachy vibe is still appropriate.

That said, this is the sort of occasion that I always struggle with! Usually I end up wearing a sheath dress of some sort, colored tights, and shoes/jacket/sweater that never seem quite right for the occasion.

11 years ago

krishnidoux

Veteran

I love Mander's suggestion!
A visual would be nice too if that is possible.

11 years ago

ButterflyLady

(website)

Veteran

Sadly, I have no maxi dresses - I am short, I'd look like an inverted V - not good! And it's pouring with rain here ...

No dresses either except a casual winter dress that needs tights and boots with it and a dressy LBD (a kind of cocktail dress).

11 years ago

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