If an invite for an evening function landed in your lap today, would you have the appropriate outfit? Or would send the host your regrets because you had nothing to wear? Too often, we pay very little attention to eveningwear because we spend most of our money on work clothes.
Even if you rarely attend such functions, it is important that you have some special garments to bail you out should the occasion arise. You do not have to own a ball gown. All you need are a few basic items to transform you into the belle of the ball.
Evening bag Every woman needs this small accessory. Like shoes, it can add class to your total look. Today, walk around town and you will be spoilt for choice; from hand beaded exquisite bags from India, to metallic tones, reptile skin and velvet treasures. Cost varies depending on where you shop. A bag that costs sh50,000 on Luwum Street can cost up to sh150,000 in a more up market place. Avoid carrying huge bags to formal evening functions. You don’t want to appear like someone in need of a doggy bag.
1. A dark dress A simple black dress can prove invaluable. Opt for a style that will stand the test of time, something that will not go out of fashion in a few months. Dress it up with elaborate jewellery for ultra formal functions and simple jewellery for semi-formal occasions. You can change its look by wearing it with different scarves, hairdos, shoes and other accessories. If you do not like black, try navy, brown, red (2), dark purple or maroon (burgundy).
Shoes An elegant pair of shoes will upgrade your outfit to the level of the function you are attending. The shoe must balance your total look rather than overpower it. Look out for shoes in metallic colours, satin and those with lace or diamante trimmings. Suede and leather shoes are also great. Remember, “The wrong shoes can totally destroy the chic of an otherwise lovely appearance,” writes Genevieve Antoine Dariaux in A Guide to Elegance.
A sexy top This can be made from satin, lace or silk. It can also be sequined although you must be careful with sequins as they can overshadow you if they are overdone. If you are not into sequins that much, opt for a sequined camisole that you can team with a formal jacket or suit.
Long skirt or a pair of trousers You can never go wrong with a long black skirt (or trousers) because you can wear it to a variety of functions in the same week and no one will be the wiser. Black is every woman’s friend because it hides bulges that you’d rather no one saw. Yes, we all have these issues. Add colour through colourful tops and elaborate jewellery to achieve elegance.
