Red-Carpet Ready

 

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Around this time of year the hubby and I are inevitably invited to a “black tie” dinner. Though these dinners always end up being quite fun, they’re also a little nerve-wracking. Herein lays the problem. Ask ten different people for their opinion on what constitutes appropriate attire for a guy attending a “black tie” event and you will most likely get this unanimous response– “a tux”. Ask ten different people the same question about a woman and I can almost guarantee that you’ll get ten different answers. This, my friends, is where “black tie” can become a little overwhelming. For a woman, the world of formal attire holds so many options that it inevitably becomes difficult to navigate. Though it is super easy to get caught up in all of the possibilities, I usually ease my nerves by following these guidelines to help me get ‘red carpet ready’ for my 'black-tie' event.

• I always go with a full-length gown. Honestly, I can wear a knee-length skirt any day of the week, so on special occasions I always up the glam effect by wearing full-length dresses.

• I look for solid-colored dresses with a few fun or classic details. Sometimes dresses with too many embellishments (or in too fun of a print) can come off more pageant than “black tie.” So, I stick with solid-colored dresses in a classic fabric like lace or with fun detailing like these bandage stripes.

• I always get my gowns tailored. Since I’m only 5’2”, I’m primarily concerned with altering the length of the gown. I select my shoes to wear with the gown before I visit the tailor so that he can give me the length I want based on my height with the heels on.

• I keep the jewelry to a minimum. I usually wear either a statement necklace or a bracelet but not both at the same time.

 

 

• I don’t neglect the small stuff. With all the hassle of finding and fitting into a gown, it’s easy to neglect things like make-up and nails. But, I think a made-up face and manicured nails are necessary to top off a great “black tie” look.

• For my make-up, I usually focus most of my attention on my eyes. Since my lashes are on the short side, mascara is a necessity for getting that glam look. Currently, I’m in love with COVERGIRL® Clump Crusher Mascara. I can apply tons of this stuff and my lashes don’t clump together. COVERGIRL promises 30 strokes with no clumps and more volume (a short-lashed girl’s dream come true).
• For my nails, I always go with a color that will compliment my gown. I usually pair dark colors with dark gowns and light colors with light gowns. Here, I’m wearing COVERGIRL® Outlast Stay Brilliant Nail Gloss. This nail polish is perfect for getting the high-gloss look that a fancy night on the town deserves– no top coat required.

Following these guidelines have always helped me get “red carpet ready” AND keep my sanity. Are you guys planning on attending any “black-tie” events this year? If so, "What makes YOU feel 'red carpet ready' and what are your go-to tricks?

Love,
Jillian


Visit COVERGIRL on YouTube for more great ideas on how to get red carpet ready!

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