What to Wear To Host a Party — Patio Dresses and Jumpsuits
Having a party soon? Going to a party where you want to really stand out — or having some friends over for cocktails, dinner or just great conversation? I suggest wearing a GREAT sexy, long, comfortable dress or jumpsuit. They are perfect for any time of year, winter included. You’re not going outside — and if you are, it’s only for a short time; find someone else to drive you!
So put on one of these, a pair of sandals. Put your hair up and wear one great piece of jewelry (I always like one big cocktail ring that won’t bother me while I serve up drinks or desserts) and you’ll be the hit of your own soiree!
I tried the dress on – shown above - at Neimans and it is also available at revolveclothing.com. It’s by Trina Turk and it fits beautifully. You can probably wear a bra with it — always a nice thing. This dress retails for about $300.
Here is a dress I found online at shopbop.com — a great site. This is by Sheri Bodell and I think it’s very pretty and unique. It retails for about $400.
Another great dress from shopbop.com. This site had the best selection of long dresses that I have seen, so far this season. I like this dress because you can wear it a few different ways (the straps are very long) and it’s quite simple. Pair it with gladiators or thongs, or make it dressier by adding gold toned shoes and jewelry. It retails for about $300.
* The two dresses at the top of this blog are by Milly ( the flowery one — $610 at Net A Porter.com) and the orange dress is also from Net A Porter.com and retails for about $500. The designer is Rachel Gilbert. The black strapless jumpsuit is by ABS by Allen Schwartz, available at Bloomies and Saks for $285 and the brown jumpsuit is from Spiegel’s online for $89.
The fabulous jumpsuit below is by Black Halo and is available in limited sizes at neimanmarcus.com; saksfifthavenue.com; revolveclothing.com and shopbop.com. It sells for about $300. Here’s Sarah Jessica Parker wearing it and looking oh, so cool…
The key to wearing a jumpsuit and not looking ridiculous is to keep your look very simple and the jumpsuit should fit well, even a bit loose. If worn tight, you’ll cheapen the look. I had my tailor make me a jumpsuit last Spring when I began to want one so badly and couldn’t find them anywhere. If you have a great tailor, this is always an option. Bring him/her a picture of what you want, purchase the fabric on your own and often you’ll pay less than you would for some of the designs shown here (always get a price upfront!). If you don’t have a great tailor, it’s time to find one. This is a priority for putting together a great wardrobe that fits you properly.