Dress me!
Posted on | September 23, 2009 27 Comments | e-mail | print
When I was in college, and we girls on the second floor of Darrow Hall used to go out on Thursday nights to the local dance bar, my friend Denise would always skip into the room at 8:30, clapping, saying “It’s time to play Dress Denise!” And then we would all help her choose which pair of bootcut black pants and which sparkly tank top because hello, 1997. That’s all ANYBODY wore after 8 p.m.
So Hi! This is me skipping into your dorm room going CLAP CLAP “It’s time to play Dress Supa!”
I need your beautiful wonderful help because my sister is getting married ON FRIDAY and I am the maid (Matron, fine) of honor and I still don’t know what I’m wearing. Here are the facts: Evening wedding, downtown Columbus reception, boys in black tuxes and girls in knee-length black dresses of our own choosing; the bride will be in a — well, I better not say, on the 1% chance her fiance sees this, but she’ll be beautiful.
I am wearing my newly dark brown hair half up, half down, in curls (putting the whole mess in the capable hands of the girls at Columbus’s Phia salon). I bought a new lipstick (something from Clinique with the word “toffee” in the name”) and waterproof mascara. But beyond that, I am clueless. I mean, I usually hang out in this:
But I need to look more like a brunette version of this:
I keep aiming for that and hitting “drag queen” instead.
So, OK. That’s the dress. Now what shoes? Keeping in mind that I don’t know how to walk in them if they don’t have “birkenstock” printed on the leather. Here’s what I have upstairs, in shoe boxes, waiting:
or
Patent leather pumps by Anne Klein, very comfortable T-strap by Sofft, or sparkly … whatever those are called? Keeping in mind that I want to look fancy and pretty and not … let’s use the word “vampy.”
Also keeping in mind that I found my first wrinkle on Monday night and only just cleared up a persistent breakout situation, so I am feeling pretty vulnerable in the ol’ looks department.
And what jewelry should I wear? I borrowed some silver hoop earrings from my cousin, and also silver-set ruby tear drop set and a diamond flower-cluster set and holy crap do you know how bad I am at making decisions? My nickname is MAYBE for a reason.
In a word: HALP. Thank you.
*skips out of dorm room to look for stash of cookie dough in mini-fridge*
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27 Responses to “Dress me!”
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Leaving me a comment, eh? Have I mentioned how gorgeous you look in that shirt/kilt/jumpsuit/riding ensemble?
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Oh hey you guys, it's me, Supa. Things I enjoy: talking on my bananaphone, being a nerd, writing, sewing, writing about sewing, giving my husband high-fives, playing Nintendo with my kids, playing with technological gadgetry, knitting, and reading decorating books. Did I write down nachos? Add that in there.
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September 23rd, 2009 @ 9:48 am
i’d say shoes A.
Reply to thisSeptember 23rd, 2009 @ 9:52 am
shoes B and pearls
Reply to thisSeptember 23rd, 2009 @ 9:58 am
You guys are awesome. thank you for the input.
melanie, i have a string of pearls but they are pink(ish) — do you think that would that work?
Reply to thisSeptember 23rd, 2009 @ 9:58 am
I’d say since you’re not used to wearing heels, and they’re comfortable, go with the Sofft shoes.
For jewelry I vote for the diamond flower cluster set. They would jazz things up just a touch.
If you keep “hitting drag queen” (which cracked me up) try blotting your lipstick a little after you put it on. Not too much though or it won’t show up in the pictures.
Reply to thisSeptember 23rd, 2009 @ 10:03 am
The T-straps and the ruby teardrops.
Reply to thisSeptember 23rd, 2009 @ 10:08 am
Did I mention how awesome you guys are?
Dani wrote:
Good tip. I think I’m going to need someone to do my makeup for me.
Sarah wrote:
You know from experience my feet would be happiest in those. thanks for chiming in on the jewelry, too!
Reply to thisSeptember 23rd, 2009 @ 10:34 am
I came in here with every intention of telling you my love for shoe choice B. … but then I had a mini panic attack and became all flustered *hands fluttering in front of my face and all that entails* remembering I have a wedding in October. … and I will probably have to dress up. And wear heels. …..
Reply to thisSeptember 23rd, 2009 @ 10:41 am
I also vote for shoes B because: they are the lowest heels (you know I’m a Birkenchick, too) and they look safest (to me) and I have a thing for maryjanes, which they are the closest to (I am a total Shoe Noob so pardon me if I’ve offended anyone with that statement).
As for jewelery I say uh.. yes!
That is all.
Reply to thisSeptember 23rd, 2009 @ 10:54 am
Chair wrote:
Oh maryjanes! I have a thing for those too. We are shoe twins, sole sisters.
Reply to thisSeptember 23rd, 2009 @ 10:55 am
toyfoto wrote:
Deep breaths. All will be fine. We’ll play Dress Toyfoto then and you can carry your heels in your hand.
Reply to thisSeptember 23rd, 2009 @ 11:29 am
Well, I follow the teachings of Stacy and Clinton. Sooo, I would definitely go for the first shoe. A low cut, pointy toed shoe such as that will elongate the legline. At the reception (or after pictures), you could switch to the t-strap shoe so you can do the hokey pokey safely.
Reply to thisSeptember 23rd, 2009 @ 12:01 pm
Dear Supa,
1. Love your stuff; I’ve got two boys (6 and nearly 2) and the same challenges, but way over here on the damp other coast.
2. Great dress. Definitely the T-strap Softt shoe because you have to be in them for a LONG time. Weddings are interminable.
3. Jewelry: Go to goodwill and get the most flamboyant, loudest necklace you can find (that you could actually bear wearing) that has COLOR. Definitely step out of your comfort zone on this, because it really isn’t that risky. I just bought some fabulous pieces and the most expensive was only $15. The guests will be looking at that, and your fabulous, animated face and stunning newly brunette hair and they’ll ignore any of your (perceived) flaws.
Oh yes, wear a smile instead of our usual tired-mommy faces. You go, girl!
Reply to thisSeptember 23rd, 2009 @ 12:12 pm
Are you going to wear your shoes all night? If so I’d go for comfort & wear B. However, if you can get through the ceremony & pictures with shoe A I think they are fabulous. Once you sit down to eat & get up to dance no one will care what you are wearing or IF you are wearing any shoes.
Also, I like Melanie’s suggestion & found some white ‘pearls’ and matching, slightly dangly earrings at the bottom of my jewelry box that I will show you tomorrow to confuse you even more!
Reply to thisSeptember 23rd, 2009 @ 12:33 pm
AND if you don’t have anyone to do your make-up consider going to a department store or large chain beauty store. They know what looks good when you’re going to be photographed, and will usually do your special occasion make-up with little notice. Call ahead to to make sure they aren’t busy & see if there is a fee, purchase or tip required. Most I’ve been to have been free. Just tell them to go light on the drag queen : )
Reply to thisSeptember 23rd, 2009 @ 3:36 pm
Shoes A! Bring some lower kitten heels for dancing at the reception. I’d skip the necklace because of the neckline and wear some chandelier earrings. If you have a largish brooch, it would look fantastic on the waistline of that dress. Add some lip gloss, lots of lashes, and you’re set! Oh, and don’t forget a colorful clutch!
Reply to thisSeptember 23rd, 2009 @ 6:08 pm
shoes B def! very cute!
Reply to thisSeptember 23rd, 2009 @ 6:53 pm
if you must wear black shoes, i’d say wear taupe hose. for fall i think it’s sharp, and all black would be too funereal, imo.
i think also some color in jewelry accessories around the face would be excellent. like raspberry, especially if your lipstick is neutral.
i would’ve worn my shoes that look kinda like this with a black dress, though these heels are a leetle too high for dancing: http://www.overstock.com/Clothing-Shoes/Glaze-by-Adi-Womens-Leopard-Print-Peep-toe-Pumps/4128797/product.html?cid=123620&fp=F&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=12134041-000-006
have fun!
Reply to thisSeptember 23rd, 2009 @ 7:36 pm
I don’t wear heels, so recently, I was at DSW trying to find shoes for my attendance at a wedding and actually was shocked to find that Söfft brand remarkably comfortable. I ended up with a pair of Börn maryjane flats, but if I could have found a pair of Söfft in my size, I would have bought them. Go with the t-straps for sure!
Reply to thisSeptember 23rd, 2009 @ 8:18 pm
Ooh, this is fun!
I vote for shoes B, as most everyone else has. They seem to be the most “you,” they’ll be comfy, and they’re also hella cute! I think they’re funky (but certainly dressy), and, frankly, I now want them for myself.
Depending on how the flower clusters look, I would vote for those because they sound equally funky. You could always mix and match, though — flower necklace, silver hoops. That might be more interesting than a jewelry set.
I am positive you will not look “vampy” in any of these combos; I often freak out a little when I dress up and keep going on and on about how I don’t look like myself, until I realize it’s all in my head. A full face of makeup is going to make you feel even more like that, though.
Now that I’ve sufficiently confused things, I’ll just back away slowly … no matter what you choose, you’re going to look great! Also, the other bridesmaids are there to advise on just such questions as these.
Have a great tme!
Reply to thisSeptember 23rd, 2009 @ 8:53 pm
Shoe B, my friend. It seems a little vintage-y and that’s just you’re style! Besides, you’re so freaking adorable that you could wear flip flops and pull it off.
Enjoy!
Reply to thisSeptember 24th, 2009 @ 7:13 am
I love Shoe B and C but I think that B would be best. I think the sparklies would be best with that dress since if I remember correctly, the line of the necklace might match the neckline. I’d agree with the pop of color and a huge brooch but you don’t ACTUALLY want to draw any attention away from your sister. SO, since the goal is to be quietly elegant, a hint of sparkles should be good
Reply to thisSeptember 24th, 2009 @ 11:15 am
I am going to disagree with Shoe B. I think if the guys are wearing tuxes, then the Sofft shoes aren’t sophisticated enough (although I do like them). I also don’t think they go with the dress at all. I think you should go with A. They are sophisticated and very appropriate for that dress. Sold. If you need to, someone else suggested wearing the Anne Kleins for the wedding and the Soffts for the reception. I think that’s reasonable.
Ruby earrings, and a bracelet (sparkley if you’ve got it). No need for any other jewelry!
Reply to thisSeptember 24th, 2009 @ 11:46 am
THANK YOU, everybody! I appreciate all the feedback so much you wouldn’t even believe it.
I’m just about to finish packing the car and zoom outta here with my family so MWAH! Kisses until later.
THANK YOU. You are all so very wise. And with good taste.
Reply to thisSeptember 24th, 2009 @ 11:47 am
P.S. that’s not to say you shouldn’t keep giving me feedback because I will still check this from the hotel until like the last second.
Will report back after the weekend. PLUS pictures of my children in suits, so, whoa.
Reply to thisSeptember 24th, 2009 @ 11:48 am
First of all, I just have to say that “Dress Denise” brought back a flood of Darrow memories. Thursday night dancing was the best! Showing up to my 8:30 a.m. class on Friday morning with huge black X’s on my hands, however, was not the best.
As for the shoes, given the formality of the occasion, I vote option A with a pair of comfy sandals in your bag so you can still bust a move like it’s 1997. Whatever you choose, though, you’ll look fab.
Reply to thisSeptember 24th, 2009 @ 7:44 pm
SHOES B and a simple black velvet ribbin around the neck ie a choker! dangle something off you like. we all know you’ll be fine ‘coz you’re that sort of girl.
Reply to thisSeptember 27th, 2009 @ 8:07 pm
i bet you were stunning. seriously.
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