"Hi girl, its my birthday on monday....cant believe i'm forty already! would love you to come over to Helen's to celebrate.I know you are a busy business woman but all my new friends would love to meet you. See ya!"  A simple, harmless message from an old friend but as innocent as it sounds, a message like this can(and will) give a woman heart palputations, cause panic attacks and raise blood pressure....why? you might ask( and if "you" are are asking "you" must be a man) well because it raises the age old question.. "what should i wear?" This has become the focus of many reality shows in the last decade and has even launched careers for many stylists at home and abroad .

As a fashion designer i face this question on behalf of my clients virtually every working day? What i realise in general is that most peolple would rather not stand out in a crowd even if its for the right reasons. Its safer to blend in and focus on enjoying the day out than worry that you are over.... or worst still under dressed. The truth is there are generally no rules instead there are comfort and confidence levels and that is usually my starting point when consulting.Lets take our opening case study. What would you wear? . What do we know about this party

1. Its being hosted by an old friend

2. Will be attended by a lot of people you probably have never met

3. Its a 40th birthday party

4. Its after working hours on Monday

5. Its at a mutual friend house

The party will probably be attended by young professionals and contemporaries of the celebrant.Also possibly other old friends you havent met in a long time. You want to look impressive but  not over done. A number of people will be coming from work and may or may not change out of their work clothes for the party. It would be safe to wear an Xclamations! embroidered tunic with a pair of linen pants .Style T014 (shown right) is available in a variety of interesting colors and  and can be paired with nice dark jeans and pumps for the ultra feminine look.Another option would  be a classic shirt dress.Style SD005 (shown below) is a classic piece but the use of african print woodin gives an interesting twist to this timeless style,paired with nice high sandals or flats you will look appropriately dressed but you will not go unnoticed. Lastly a Kaftan always finds a place no matter the occassion,try K003(shown below).Its palyfull detailing makes you approachable but not familiar,comfortable but not frumpy,a pair matching pants and simple sandals complete this look.

Finally grooming cannot be overemphasised. Nothing absolutely nothing can replace nice hair ,nails ,and teeth. A dab of perfume,make up and truck loads of confidence and you are ready to impress.

 

Have Fun!

AYT