From casual daywear to formal events, there’s a look for everything, writes Olivia Prat.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from working in fashion, it’s that there’s an outfit for every occasion. True, we all have a dependable pair of ballet pumps or a versatile blazer making up the staples of our wardrobe, but it’s important to know how to dress for the occasion, so here are a few nuggets of wisdom that I have picked up in my time to help guide you along the way.
The First Date
Mix smart with casual.
You’ve probably got enough to worry about without even thinking about your wardrobe before that all important first date, but it’s essential to leave no stone unturned so that you’re feeling cool as a cucumber. Before you start planning your outfit, think about mentally preparing yourself – maybe look up some topical events to talk about, and practice self-affirming mantras.
Fashion wise, you’ll want a mix of smart and casual – not too try hard, but not rocking up in sweat pants either. This great article on Cosmo shows some real examples of successful first date outfits – notice how they’ve mixed glamorous necklaces with casual pieces like jeans or motif tees.
The dinner party
Dare to be bold!
If you’ve been invited to a dinner party, chances are it’s a corporate event or some other occasion requiring you to dress to impress. There’s one secret weapon you can pull here to make sure you look absolutely unforgettable – the cocktail dress. A little black dress is a staple of any fashion-forward woman’s wardrobe, but if you want to be a little more daring, you can always try a bolder colour. Don’t go too high above the knee, and if you are going bold on the colour stakes, make sure you pair it with subtler heels and accessories.
Mentally, you can prepare yourself for an occasion such as this by thinking of a few amusing anecdotes to arm yourself with – remember, humour is a great ice breaker.
The casino
Channel your inner Heather!
Often when we think of casinos, our outfit isn’t the first thing that springs to mind. But you can really make yourself stand out and even have the dealer give you an easier ride if you look the part. Think Heather Graham in The Hangover – beautiful, floor length red dresses say casino glamour like nothing else. And if you want to make doubly sure that you win big on those roulette tables, try preparing yourself mentally by looking up a few fail safe tips.
The job interview
Flat shoes are your friend!
Last but by no means least, this is one of the biggest rites of passage you’ll ever go through, so make sure you feel comfortable in yourself by looking the part. Dressing for a job interview is easy if you stick to a few golden rules – number one, do not show too much flesh. You might think it will help you to get through to the next stage, but it will actually make you feel insecure and stop you from expressing yourself.
Dress comfortably, with flat shoes that have been worn in, and don’t overdo the make up – remember, you’re showing your prospective employer all of you, not just your cosmetic range.
Once your outfit is sorted, try practicing a few interview questions online and keep your attitude positive – with plenty of rest and mental prep, you’ll be ready to shine.
