Dress me for my 20th high school reunion this SATURDAY NIGHT? - YouLookFab Forum

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Dress me for my 20th high school reunion this SATURDAY NIGHT?

smiles33

I'm a new member and haven't purchased a new outfit appropriate for a bar/evening out in years. I literally don't know where to start! I've procrastinated so badly that now I've got less than a week to buy something. I also don't have time to go to the mall until Saturday morning, so if I can buy it on-line, even better!

My 20th high school reunion is at an outdoor patio/bar of a "hip" restaurant. I suspect it's mostly used on Saturday nights for trendy singles/young couples without kids--basically, not people like me. I don't want to be overdressed, so I thought skinny black pants and a pair of strappy heels, but I can't figure out what to wear on top. It's supposed to be a high of 90 that day, but should cool down slightly by 7 pm.

For background, my wardrobe is 90% work-appropriate separates (trousers, sleeveless high neck tanks/shells, 3/4 sleeve boatneck tops, sheath dresses, etc.) and then some Ts, jeans, and shorts for weekends. I don't think anyone in my closet will work except for the skinny black pants.

I'm a "racy rectangle" (with maybe slim hourglass as a secondary shape per my thread last week), small-busted (34B), 5'7", usually an 8 or 10, long torso, long neck, short legs (30" inseam). I think I'm also a warm Autumn (black hair with chestnut highlights, medium skin with yellow undertones).

Any suggestions would be much appreciated!

Dressing

34 replies

Latest reply was from Sal

catgirl

Veteran

I'm going to be posting a similar request soon, only I have two months and it's my 30th!

If you are definite on the pants and heels, I'd look for a fluid fit silky top with built in flare. Or do you have favorite jewelry? What's your comfort zone for dressing? Or since I don't know much about your style, are there forum members whose style speaks to you, so we can get ideas?

jackiec

Veteran

Good for you for even going to your reunion! I refuse to attend mine...but that's my own issue (or non issue if you ask me )

We are similar sizes - I'm more pear shaped I think but I'm b/t 5'7" and 5'8".

If you are set on the pants/heels idea (which I think is great), here's recommendation for the Pleoine sleeveless wrap top, along the same idea I think as what Una is suggesting. I have it in white (below), and have ordered it in black because I'm finding it to be really versatile. You could add lots of bling if you want, or not.

Just an idea. I'm sure other fabbers will have lots of great ideas. Just thought I'd throw out there what I'd probably wear and be most comfortable in.

PS. I have it in XS. I'm small on top at 34A.

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Pleione Sleeveless Faux Wrap Blouse (Regular & Petite)

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Diana

Veteran

Do you have a white or cream silk blouse in your work-appropriate separates? Or a sleeveless one like Jackie linked? I think a floaty white blouse + black cigarette pants + heels is always a very chic look.

Or any color blouse would probably work. I just happen to think the sheer white + black combo is so nice.

Like this blogger's outfit, for example:
http://mydressyways.wordpress......ack-pants/

smiles33

These are great ideas! I really need to update my wardrobe as I don't have any fluid tops. They tend to be fitted but I see from these photos that this silhouette is very flattering and more on trend.

I should have stated in my initial post that I'm a fairly conservative/classic dresser. I like simple structured lines (hence so many shells and 3/4 sleeve boatneck tops), have minimal (if any!) patterns, and tend to have a pretty minimalist style. I don't have any "bling" jewelry as I tend to wear just my engagement and wedding rings, a simple pale green jade bracelet, and a diamond pendant necklace. My ears are pierced but I'm often too lazy to wear earrings (I have black pearls, diamond studs, and some small white gold hoops).

I was trying to search on Nordstrom's website and Pinterest for inspiration and think maybe I could buy a "statement" necklace and then monochromatic black from head to toe. That's the easiest option but most boring, for sure.

Ideally, I'd love to get a top that isn't just a special occasion top, as we so rarely have those. But I also don't want to look like I'm going to work (which I the strappy heels would help dispel that).

Do folks have other ideas if I abandon the black pants and heels?

Thank you!!!

catgirl

Veteran

Sure, you can't go wrong with a simple black dress, but do you think everyone will be wearing that? Don't do something super out of your comfort zone as you may already be feeling awkward enough at a reunion (I know I will).

Did you have a "fantasy you" to spin off? Again, any forum members you would emulate? Then you can solicit specific suggestions from them based on their own closet.

UmmLila (Lisa)

Veteran

Maybe a more embellished top -- sequins, studs or the like. I'm a fan of Rebecca Taylor for these occasions (one of her dresses worked well for my 30th) http://www.rebeccataylor.com/t.....hop,rttops but here in finds also is a good possibility if your arms make you happy:

http://m.whitehouseblackmarket.....#038;size=

ASTR Embellished Tank

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Staysfit

Veteran

If you have autumn coloring I wouldn't wear black near your face. You would be better off with Ivory, or if you want something richer maybe Aubergine. I think keeping things simple is best for a class reunion. Some great jewelry, nice shoes and simple lines to your clothes. IMO People who add too much embellishment look like they are trying too hard at these type of events. I love the idea of a floaty top in a flattering neckline and color with your pants and some great shoes.

Sal

Veteran

I think pants and heels is a great idea, however a dress is always fun. But an evening dress is less versatile than a evening top.
At the moment my go to evening looks are:

black/gold/green/pink kimono jacket (mostly black and gold)
Black pointy heels
jeans
Black evening tee

In the weekend I wore
Black pencil skirt
Same black evening tee
Black pointy heels
Bold necklace (black, gold, silver - heavy)
My tee is sheer at the back so i wear a black bodysuit underneath

I also wore
Black and white printed ankle pants
black heels
the same black tee

None of these are super dressy, but elevated to the evening with hair and makeup and high heels and a clutch bag.

Joy

Veteran

I just got back from my *cough* 50th *cough* reunion. I don't think that you can go wrong with great fitting slim black pants and a fluid top. One of the most outstanding outfits I saw was dark wash skinny jeans, heels, and a gorgeous citron colored silk long sleeved button-down tunic shirt with full back detail. It was worn untucked and the movement was a big part of the appeal. The shirt had fabulous drape that had to be silk rather than polyester.
Whatever you wear, relax send have fun.

smiles33

Oh wow, so many replies! I just got back to my laptop (was at the park trying to read on my iPhone earlier this afternoon) and have so much to comment on!

alaskagirl: I haven't been on the boards long enough to figure out whose style I admire/would like to emulate. I need to click on more WIW threads!

jackiec: that top is awesome and I just bought it! It looks fantastic on you and gives off the right kind of vibe: not fussy but not too minimalist either, and I think very stylish and relaxed! I can't believe it so budget-friendly!

Diana: my one blouse/button down shirt is a very structured classic white button down, so a bit tapered to me and not flowy at all! But I'm totally willing to invest in some new pieces, especially if they can also be work-appropriate.

alaskagirl (post 2!): I think a little black dress is overly dressy. I grew up in Silicon Valley (back when the big tech companies were HP and Apple, not LinkedIn, Facebook, etc.!) and folks here are super casual as it is. If I were in SF, I'd consider a dress, but I think most people will be in pants/trendy jeans. I
don't think I have a "fantasy me" and there isn't even a celebrity I would emulate. To be perfectly candid (and this is a bit embarrassing), I've always liked "Posh Spice" Victoria Beckham's sexy interpretation of classic silhouettes. Or, while I don't watch the show, everything I've seen of Kerry Washington's wardrobe on Scandal has caught my eye!

ummlila: I think embellishments might be too dramatic for me, but thank you for suggesting it! I'm still coming to terms with bolder style choices and think I need more time to transition beyond my very safe conservative choices thus far.

staysfit: I *think* I'm deep Autumn, even though I love Winter colors. I should start a post and ask folks. Deep saturated colors like dark purple and navy are my two favorites (not including black). I wear black and I am sure it's not the most flattering color, but it's been so easy. Well, that's why I'm here--to expand my horizons and learn about what colors and styles are more flattering!

kiwigal: do you have photos here? I need to go search WIW to see some outfits. Your outfits sound great and your style sounds like the type I might like very much!

Joy: I'm glad you had fun at your reunion! To be honest, I was reluctant at first (the 20 pounds I've put on since high school being one reason), but then I decided to just do it since so many of us have gained weight (thank you, Facebook, for letting me see my classmates!) and we had some great times in high school. Citron sounds WAY too bold for me, but I like the idea of simple clean lines.

Anonymous

You'll have fun, it's so worth it to go. I just went to my 30th and the attire was all over the map. I wore a printed knit dress I already had and ballet flats. I'm SO glad I didn't rush out and buy a whole new outfit; that would have been overkill for my reunion.
Your black pants and strappy sandals sounds perfect. And you just bought jackiec's white top? Wear that with your diamond earrings and you'll be all set. If you have a clutch, that will keep if from feeling too corporate. I have a large semi-casual clutch that works for both day and night, so you might consider one of those if you don't have one. The new top can go to work with a blazer or cardigan on top after the reunion. You gotta love that! Cheers!

smiles33

Ugh, Nordstrom canceled my order! They sold out of the ivory and the other patterned tops are beyond my comfort zone (and not the best colors for me).

Back to the drawing board!

Clearlyclaire: I'm glad you had fun! I've seen photos from my college friends who went to their reunions and some folks really dressed up. I just think a more relaxed vibe fits my school/community, even though I have some cute sheath dresses that would be great if it were a more business/formal event.

Cheryl Glasgow

And you can always concentrate on an update of make-up and hair if finding a top you are comfortable with doesn't happen....

smiles33

Cheryl: I've got that handled--made appts at Dry Bar for a blowout and Sephora for a makeover (which I haven't done in years since I normally don't wear makeup at all). One of my high school girlfriends observed, "I'm sure the guys aren't stressing at all about what to wear and they don't even have to worry about hair, makeup or nails!" None of us know what we are wearing yet and it's just days away!

JAileen

Veteran

My 40th was this summer and I skipped it, after enduring the 10th, 20th, and 30th. They begged me to come, so the event would break even. Whatever... I had a separate get-together with my close friends the week before.

My impressions:
10th: Look at me I'm so great.
20th: Look at these pictures of my kids.
30th: Wow. Didn't think some of these people would live this long. Sadly, some didn't, having lived hard lives, fueled by drugs.

As for your outfit, I think the most important thing is to wear something in your comfort zone. Wearing the black pants and a fluid top sounds good.

I hope you have a good time. Be sure to bring lots of pictures of your children!

jackiec

Veteran

Oh no! I'm so sad they cancelled your order! Wish I could lend you mine. How about black? That would be nice with black pants.....

Sal

Veteran

Thanks, sorry I don't have pics. I am always in such a rush for these events I never have time. Something I should change.

I would definitely wear the pants and heels, with great hair and make up the top can be quite simple and you can probably get one on Saturday morning when you have time.

I don't always abide by this rule but I sometimes think the hair and makeup are more important than the clothes - and now try and spend the time on these aspects even if wearing a fairly simple outfit. I think this is being in my 40s and I cannot quite rely on youthful looks to get me by (lol)

We had a 20 year reunion 5 years ago and it was actually a very happy relaxed evening...so much fun...and no "look at me, I am so successful" type behaviour. It was a while back so my look is not what I would choose now exactly but it was a black layered floaty tank tunic with black trousers (flowy bootcut style) and I cannot remember the shoes at all? While I don't think black is my best colour it does seem to be my safe fall back option!

smiles33

Ok, I need some advice. The event is tonight! It is still painfully hot (80+ degrees at 7 pm and we are meeting up at a restaurant with an outdoor patio) so I'm leaning toward a dress now. Here are some photos of me in a simple Boden dress (which I'd accessorize with my gold espadrille wedges and a gold clutch) and one of me in a "fluid" navy blouse with skinny black pants and strappy heels. The latter outfit seems more casual, but I feel like the fluid top is not flattering, though. I still have time to go shopping (but that feels a little desperate).

Honest opinions, please?

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Staysfit

Veteran

I really like the dress and think that would be great for your warm weather. I love the detail around the collar, it's very pretty. It's hard for me to tell about the espadrilles along with the dress, I trust that you say they are gold, because on my screen they look off white, and that may be a bit casual also. If they are gold, I think they would be fine.

Liz

Veteran

First, you're adorable. You look great, and have nothing to worry about.

The photos are too dark on my screen to really see the details of the clothes, so I can't really comment on which would be better. Both seem great! I'd wear the one that you seem most comfortable in. It sounds like you would prefer the pants, but worry that the top isn't flattering? Truly, you look great in either. Wear the one that you will feel most confident in.

smiles33

Thanks, Staysfit! I'm so grateful for feedback. My girlfriends are still waffling (some are thinking they still want the top, jeans, heels look despite the heat).

The wedges are an interesting pale gold, Cole Haan's Camila wedges. See this stock retail photo. I thought it would help make the outfit a little more casual but also offer a pop of brightness since it's such a dark navy.

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Diana

Veteran

I think they both look great. I like the gold shoes with the navy dress. I think I'd decide based on how casual/dressy you want to be, but I don't think you'll go wrong with either look.

jackiec

Veteran

I like both outfits!

smiles33

Thanks, ladies! I think the safe choice is the pants and top, since it's more casual. I have spent way too much time agonizing over this to begin with! I want to look polished and almost effortless (though clearly it hasn't been that easy!).

Moreover, if I have styled hair (I'm planning to leave it all down, getting a blowout to add more volume and some loose curls) and a full face of makeup, that's going to be a lot and perhaps push the dress over the top?

Thanks for letting me ramble on here!

DonnaF

Veteran

Do I recall that you're in South Bay/Silicon Valley? Uh, the temp. range sounds about right, even if I have you confused w/another Fabber. FWIW, from high school reunions I've attended in the East Bay, your second outfit (with the pants) hits the right note and the first may be a bit overdressed.

The guys may not be worrying about their outfit and their shoes, but they ARE worrying about their hair, or rather their lack thereof.

Have fun!

goldenpig

(website)

Veteran

You look great in both! I prefer the second outfit with the fluid top and skinny jeans. It feels more sexy/sophisticated rather than just pretty, if you know what I mean. I'd wear the first outfit for a daytime event like a wedding, but the second one at night, it sounds perfect for a reunion. Have fun and stay cool!

unfrumped

Veteran

I like both but agree with goldenpig that the pants outfit looks just right for an evening "smart casual " event like this, whereas the dress is more sedate. The main thing I always think is, wear something you look great in! (and feel comfortable, so you'll be relaxed and confident).

Joy

Veteran

You look fab in both outfits. It's probably too late to comment now but wear the outfit that makes you feel most confident.

Sal

Veteran

Hope the reunion was fun. Both outfits are great, so pleased it all was coming together for you!

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