Un-formally Formal, Part 1

My friend Jenn asked on my Facebook what a good choice was to wear to a dinner party at an upscale restaurant... specifically to celebrate her mom's 60th birthday (Happy Birthday Jenn's mom!).  Since she still wants to be dressy but not overly dressy, I put together the following board to offer some ideas.  Bonus?  Every piece is under $50!  (Check back tomorrow for the 2nd part of Jenn's question-- how to dress the boyfriend/significant other for the same event!)

Option 1:  Find a dress in a great fall color that already has interesting detail (such as draping, a jeweled waist, or both!).  If you have a great dress but it's a little plain, buy a jeweled belt to wear around your waist, it'll draw eyes to the smallest part of you.  Wear nude heels with the dress to make your legs look a mile long, and simple jewelry.  A bold accessory such as the bright yellow purse with the purple dress below is an extra way to take a risk.  Worried about being cold?  Throw a simple cardigan over the dress.  Avoid a more structured jacket so that you look more relaxed.

Option 2: A pencil skirt is always a great option for looking formal.  But to make it less so, dress it down with a simple bow blouse and great booties in an amazing color like the purple ones below.  Accessories with a bit of an edge (such as this great bold cuff) takes the look down even more.

Option 3:  What is better than a pair of wide leg black pants?  Pair them with a jewel toned blouse (tuck it in if the volume is too much for you), add a structured bag, simple black diamond earrings and red shoes for extra color.  Or, use a tiered tank with a built in necklace/flower detailing.  Use a black patent clutch for a bit of edge, and still throw in the red heels for a bit of sex appeal.

Formal by peanutsms featuring jeweled dresses