I was reading Gabrielle's post on "Fashion vs Style." Gabrielle was commenting on how she wore an outfit she liked to a party where she was trying to make a good impression but the older women seemed to look more polished and that made her feel uncomfortable in her outfit. http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....n-vs-style I think we've all been in that situation and I thought it might be helpful it we shared our tricks on what we wear, in sartorially ambiguous situations, when we want to make a good impression but are a bit intimidated by the group. I will always err on the side of being over rather than under dressed. If I am not sure of the dress code I will usually pick tailored black pants. I will then usually pick out an interesting bootie that's a bit fashion forward with a very comfortable heel that I can walk and stand in. I will always wear a blazer. They make me feel polished and powerful. I always wear a something that I love and feel good in, never something new, to this type of event. I have to feel like me or I won't feel confident. One of my best tricks is to pick an interesting accessory that is a conversation piece. An embellished belt, a harmony ball, my russian laquer pendant on mother of pearl which is a portrait of my schnauzer. If you are a bit intimidated to talk to the group, it's a fantastic way to give others a topic to discuss with you. You just have to pick something that's meanful, has story to it, etc. It must be authentic to you but it's a great ice breaker strategy that works for me. Anyway else have any good tricks?