Recently in What to Wear Category

Q. Help! I’m getting married in a tea length ivory dress (strapless and a-line skirt) and don’t know what shoes to wear with it. I was thinking of a metallic so I don’t have to match the ivory color, but what style?
-Shoe Unsure

A. While the actual wedding day is always joyous, wedding planning can be stressful. And matching colors can be a nightmare and a waste of precious shopping hours. A surefire successful choice is to choose metallic. It can be an ivory or off-white sandal with gold or pearls or all-over metallic in a strappy heel. You’ll look gorgeous - and surprise, surprise you’ll surely wear the heels again.

Here are two big day-worthy options, one closed toe and one strappy sandal:

Caparros Be-Bop
$59.95 at zappos.com

Nina Aney-GS
$72.95 at zappos.com

Q. I have an engagement party to attend (my boyfriend’s cousin) on July 29th.  The event is at 6p.m. at a winery/vineyard and I have no idea what to wear.  Any suggestions?   

A. A dress, a dress, a dress—something summery, not overdone.  A pretty sundress will do with strappy heeled sandals.  Engagement parties are not the wedding, so no need to overdo it. Just look pretty and toast the engaged couple.

Print Strapless Dress by Betsey Johnson, $380 at edressme.com

Q. What in the world do I wear to a company picnic that I’m attending with my husband July 30?  He works for a rather large corporation.  There will be sports and swimming (which I’m not about to do…swimsuit, yuck!)  Here is my major concerns:  I want to look conservative but stylish.  Also, my biggest physical liability is my arms, so nothing sleeveless!  If you can answer this email I would be eternally grateful!  
-Corporate Dressing Coward   

A. This is meant to be a fun occasion that boosts employee moral and builds company relationships. You’re there to support your husband and simply enjoy the festivities.  You’ll probably see a sea of men wearing shorts and golf shirts while the women will vary from skirts to shorts to sundresses depending on the activities they wish to participate in.  It only reflects well on your husband to look good, but comfortable, be friendly and join in some of the sporty activities. 

Shorts are such a huge trend this season, we just did a segment on “The View” with tips on finding the best style for different body shapes and have a new style recipe, Shorts Story, with plenty more options.  I think shorts with a short-sleeved top or a fitted button down shirt with the sleeves rolled up will allow you the flexibility to join in activities, fit in with the crowd and sit on a blanket without worrying about what you may be exposing. 

Wear stylish espadrilles that give you some height and bring along cute kicks (not your gym sneakers) to slip into for a few of the competitions. And carry a pretty tote or straw bag to hold your essentials for the day like sunscreen and sunglasses. Add in deodorant and a travel pack of baby wipes so you can clean up a bit and appear fresh if the day is really hot.

summer weight Bermuda shorts, $49.50 at jcrew.com; sport shirt, $35 at espritshop.com; Yellow Box Bolton woven leather wedge, $39.95 at solestruck.com; Skechers Sightsee sporty flats, $49.95 at solestruck.com

Q. I am the matron of honor for my best friend’s up and coming wedding.  I would like to know if it is appropriate or inappropriate for me to wear a cream color dress with silver/blue trim for the rehearsal dinner.  Please help…I have been struggling with this decision. Thank you for any help or advice that you can give me.
-Dress Stress

A. Why are you fretting?  It sounds like you’ve taken careful consideration by choosing an elegant dress for the rehearsal dinner.  Slip on the dress, accessories and a gorgeous smile and enjoy the dinner.

Q. I can’t tell you how many great tips I’ve gleaned from your column.  Now I’m needing a bit of your expertise on a problem I’m facing!  My company’s annual meeting is coming up and I’m stumped on ideas for an awards dinner outfit.  I just found a short sequin skirt that is a blue mist color that I thought would be fun to wear, but I’m not sure what to pair with it.  Is black too harsh with a pale blue?  Also, this certainly isn’t a very formal affair (they suggest cocktail attire) so I don’t want to go too fancy but I thought I might be able to pull the sequins off with something more understated on the top.  I’m a size 20 and have a large breast size and want to make sure that it is flattering to me. Help!  You’re so great with everyone else I’m praying you can help me too!
-Lost in Boston 

A. This kind of event is infinitely more important than a cocktail party with friends.  You’ll be making an impression on many important people company wide and showing off a more glamorous version of yourself.  This is a chance to be fun and friendly and still be professional. Any fashion faux pas will be remembered. As for a short sequin skirt, I worry about the length.  This is not an event appropriate for anything closely resembling a mini. And sequins can be bright, so if you stick with the skirt, the top must be subtle.

My first choice would be a white top (similar to the look shown at left), but black would be fine if your wear black sandals. It’s hard for me to really say yes to the black combination without seeing the skirt. If you opt for another outfit, then go for a dress—it’s a no-fuss solution that just requires the addition of accessories and the right bra underneath. I chose a few tops and some affordable dress options as well. Good luck at the annual meeting.

left: Lafayette 148, Salon Z Stretch Cotton Shirt, $248 at saks.com

Lafayette 148,
Salon Z Sophie Jersey Top
$288 at saks.com

JS Boutique Shirred
Two Layer Dress
$190 at nordstrom.com



Lily Three Quarter
Sleeve Surplice Dress
$92 at nordstrom.com