Dress to Impress

Hi! I just saw your blog and all i can say is that i’m super happy because i have someone to ask for advice regarding my problem..

The thing is my friend is having her party at a bar and her theme is dress to impress. I know I should dress to impress just like anyone else but i want it to be the best-est (if there’s such term) this time. I want to dress perfectly for the occasion.

I stand 5′2 and have an okay body. Not too thin and not too fat. Also my friends know that I’m not that kikay type so i want to impress them this time.But the big problem is I am only a student and i don’t think i can afford to buy expensive clothes since i won’t wear them occasionally. Also, i want to wear something that is comfortable and would look the same throughout the night because there would be a lot of dancing and drinking.

I want to look simple yet elegant with all the make-up and all and not to look trying hard at the same time. I am also scared that there might be someone else in the party with the same dress as mine so i want to avoid that.

If it’s not too much, i also want to ask your help regarding make-up; on how to apply eye shadows that would fit perfectly for the occasion and not look too dramatic.

Looking forward to your advices.

-frustrated fashionista

Dear frustrated fashionista,

You won’t have hard time choosing attire for the party given that you have a good figure. From what I understand, you also want to dress differently this time without neglecting comfort and budget. Actually, I just have two styles in my mind after reading your e-mail so I hope my ideas will help you a bit.

Since bodycons are one of this season’s trends, the style would be perfect for an evening party – cocktail, dance or dinner. Buying a piece won’t even hurt your pocket because mall boutiques have them in stock or even your friendly ukay-ukay. The secret is just to look for the perfect one that fits you well.

To look poised in a bodycon dress, make sure you’re wearing a fitted undergarment. This is to avoid noticeable flabs and sagging of dress. I’m suggesting solid-colored or less-printed fabric so it won’t be that obvious if you bump into someone with the same dress (well, I hope that doesn’t happen). A Little Black Dress would be elegant and safe for any occasion.

Dress to impress theme doesn’t require showy or sexy clothes to catch attention. I actually want to suggest a tutu plus stockings style but as you’ve said; your friends think you’re not the kikay type so it’s somewhat OA if they see that you made so much effort with your clothing. Baka kantsyawan ka nila for life. So it’s better to stick with a classic outfit yet looking glamorous. How can you do this? Wear a simple cocktail dress but have a hair make over and accessorize with hair dresses. This tip is cost effective.

You will be dancing and moving all night so it’s better to either have an up hairdo or curls – low maintenance than straight ironed hairdo because you don’t have to frequently comb your hair. Curls style can feel sweaty so if you have time, try to fix your hair upstraight. You can even add details to your crowning glory by wearing headbands, flower pins or an artistic tiara.

Shoes. This will do the trick. I know you want to feel comfortable throughout the night but if you really want to stand out then you have wear high heels. No pain, no gain. Below are pairs of Christian Louboutins and Jimmy Choos but there are cheaper choices with same style. Check out People Are People or any Department Store. I just want you to have an idea what shoes look good for a party.

If you’re uncertain that you might not enjoy the night in high heels, then go for Style # 2: Dress and Boots. Killer boots are so last season so I’ll suggest the Fringe Boots. They’re more comfortable and hip. However, the style looks laid-back because you need to pair it with a loose-fitting dress instead of a bodycon.

Lastly, don’t bring oversize shoulder bags. Use a clutch bag or purse. If you decided to wear a dark shade then match it with a purse with contrasting color. At least you won’t worry where to leave your things since you can carry a small bag anywhere… hassle free.

Don’t be intimidated with the items I suggested. You have lots of cheaper options like department stores, bargains or your mom’s closet. I also experienced being a student and it’s not easy to be broke in times of fashion emergencies. Plan for your party style to avoid wasting time in shopping or borrowing things.

Regarding make-up, any neutral shade for the eyes will do. Apply glittery color of eyeshadow over the neutral shade para hindi ka magmukhang EMO. Just please don’t combine blue and pink para hindi ka naman mukhang kukunan ng grad pic. It’s quite hard to give words regarding make-up because I have no idea what’s your complexion. Youtube make-up tutorials can help.

I hope you enjoy this event and don’t you think it’s about time to bring out the kikay side in you? You will be attending more parties in the future and rely with your sense of style.

Love Lots,

Leyn