Accessories for Special Occasions

In Lesson 85 of my book, I talk about what a big difference accessories make when dressing for a special, formal occasion. You can even sometimes use those same pieces when dressing for every day. 

Shoes - Metallic heels, including sandals, are always right for formal occasions, but can also be worn for daytime weddings, and many metallic flats go with almost any outfit. Black patent leather is even more versatile, and is dressy enough for the most formal attire.

Outerwear - Please invest in a presentable, dressy coat to have for formal occasions, or brave the cold without one. Black always makes a coat or jacket more formal, so consider buying something black, fitted and long enough to cover a dress. It will go with more casual outfits as well.

Handbag - A small clutch or shoulder purse (about 5 x 7 inches) is much better for evening than your everyday large leather bag. It can be sparkly, metallic or more simple black or a colored fabric. 

Jewelry - You don't need expensive fine jewelry. Larger costume jewelry pieces, such as those found at J. Crew, make a statement and highlight your outfit. A little black dress with big, bold, jewel-toned jewelry looks striking and makes a strong statement. Use both necklaces and bracelets, and don't match everything. They should coordinate, but not be from a matched set. You'll find these can be worn with a lot of your more casual outfits as well.

You don't have to spend a lot on any of these accessories. I like to keep my special occasions in mind all year when I'm shopping and if I see a beautiful piece of jewelry on sale, or a fun clutch bag, I'll go ahead and get it, then work it into my outfit when the right time comes. Meanwhile, I try to use sparkly and metallic pieces in my regular wardrobe. 

Get more tips on dressing for all occasions and for your everyday life in my newly updated book, Six-Word Lessons to Look Your Best. 

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Patty Pacelli is an editor, author, entrepreneur, wife and mother of two adult children, Briana and Trevor. She is the co-creator of the Six-Word Lessons Series along with her husband Lonnie.  She is the author of Six-Word Lessons to Look Your Best and Six-Word Lessons for Autism Friendly Workplaces.

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