Wardrobe 911 ®

A Wardrobe 911 Readers Asks:

I will be leaving on a business trip to New York City for a garden festival at which I will be representing my company.  I will be attending an outdoor cocktail and networking reception 5-7 pm Friday evening; our event info has said the dress is business casual.  I want to look fabulous without being overdressed but am just not sure how best to go about this.  I am 26, either an hourglass or a triangle figure and would appreciate any advice you can give!

Wardrobe 911’s Style Prescription:

A dress is the best way to go and seeing as most New Yorker’s wear neutrals (especially black), I would stick to that so you are most comfortable with what you are wearing.  Add some pops of color with your shoes, jewelry and even handbag — because it’s a garden festival and it’s an outdoor event, you want to be a bit festive and comfortable for the warm weather (crossing fingers.)  Since the reception is from 5 to 7, most people will go straight there from the festival so keep it work appropriate.  A little black dress is the perfect closet staple to pull from your closet.

If you don’t have one, this one by Anne Klein is perfect for the daytime with a jacket and for evening dressed up as shown.  The matte jersey is perfect because it doesn’t wrinkle and is super comfortable along with following the right curves.  The ruching detail shows off your narrow waist and if you are a triangle, the bateau neckline balances you out perfectly.

Wear a fun-colored patent leather sandal and carry a wristlet so you don’t have to worry about balancing a clutch and your drink.  Try some fun earrings by Subversive for Target before they sell out.

If you already have a great black dress and want to try some color, Chaiken is the best ‘go-to’ designer for all things work appropriate and the Formenterra jersey dress is in-stores at Bloomingdales.