Formal event -- need ideas for shopping/ only have a few weeks.

Laurie

Ladies - need some suggestions. We are traveling overseas for Thanksgiving, and got invited to attend the Marine Corps Ball in Istanbul! Super fun, yes, but means I need something formal. I only have cockail length LBD's, nothing sparkly, and no strappy fancy shoes.

don't want to break the bank on something I will likely not wear again -- or, I want to choose something I could wear again or shorten for more use.

I don't have a ton of time. Besides taking a spin around Rack, ideas? I had a look on eBay, from where I have never purchased a thing, and there are a couple things that look ok,but I worry about buying there, and esp something I cannot return.

I know there will be awesome suggestions -- look forward to them!

14 years ago

General

7 replies

Latest reply was from bella

MsMary

Veteran

Macy's seems to have a reasonable selection of long gowns, and they have sales and coupons all the time. Plus they will refund the difference if the item goes on sale within a reasonable time.

I'd also check my local consignment/vintage/thrift stores. You never know what treasures await...

14 years ago

krishnidoux

Veteran

OK: maxi dress, empire waist . Don't forget a pashmina or shawl! And heels you can dance in.

14 years ago

krishnidoux

Veteran

And also, a cute ball purse! The purse can make or break the outfit.
Will it be inside? outside? If outside, beware of stilettos in grass. Most such events force guests to walk on grass, where most stop while sipping on a glass of something. Better wear thicker heels if you don't want to find yourself wobbling on one or the other foot, slowly sinking into unfabness and looking more tipsy than you may be.

14 years ago

HelenInCanada

Veteran

How exciting!

What do you think of these dresses from Macy's? I think a formal full-length gown is in order! Not sure of your budget or how conservative the event will be, but FYI these are in the $200 range:

http://www1.macys.com/shop/pro.....lotId%3D18

http://www1.macys.com/shop/pro.....lotId%3D25

http://www1.macys.com/shop/pro.....lotId%3D85

And something ultra conservative, if necessary:
http://www1.macys.com/shop/pro.....slotId%3D6

Wow...endless choices on the Macy's website. As a Canadian, where we don't have Macy's, I'm impressed.

14 years ago

MsMary

Veteran

What size do you wear? I am finished with the dress in #5 in this thread if you think it might fit.: http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....f-the-seas. (My son is a Marine and I would love for my dress to be able to go to a Marine Corps Ball!)

14 years ago

Laurie

Veteran

MK -- you are too sweet!!! That's a fab dress. I'm a 6 most of the time. If size works, I'll keep it in mind.

I've spent too much time on this project -- mostly online. There's just not that much to choose from that doesn't look prom-ish, bridesmaid-ish or MOG-ish, or that costs over $500 (I really like that category too much!). But, I found a couple I like at Nordstorm under $160, so I'm waiting for my online order and I'll see where I am in a couple of days. I tried a few on last night at the store. For shoes, bags, I'm hitting Kohls with my 30% coupon, nothing fancier.

I appreciate all of the suggestions -- it actually IS kind of fun! I haven't worn a gown since I got married, 18 years ago October 23rd! I'm looking in the mirror last night, swishing around. I had quite the one-shouldered sequined number on, but it was scratchyI

think it is indoors, but not sure on that. It is probably going to be chilly over there.

Ok, i'll post pics as I take them!! Thanks you guys, I knew I could count on my YLF'ers

14 years ago

bella

(website)

Veteran

First of all, Istanbul, how fun! Say hi to my compatriots.
Second, I think your cocktail LBD might be ok. Why don't you post a picture? Then we can figure out shoes/accessories.

14 years ago

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