Dressing for Every Twist of Fete
Your invitation is in the mail, but don’t worry. We’ve cracked the case of how to dress for holiday parties, with three ways you might be asked to appear: cocktail, black tie and the ever-elusive California casual.
Black Tie--Neiman Marcus
Hers: Fire-engine red ball gown in Duchess satin from Richard Tyler, $2,000. Matching stole, about 8 feet long, for a mere $750. Classic satin pump dyed to match.
His: Single-breasted, one-button wool tuxedo from Le Collezioni by Giorgio Armani, $1,495. Ike Behar tuxedo shirt, $155. Charvet woven silk tie with sterling silver threading, $155. Modified, square cap-toe leather shoe by Gucci, $370.
Cocktail--from Bloomingdale’s
Hers: Iridescent olive and purple lined organza dress from Laundry by Shelli Segal (2 inches above the knee. No more minis!), $200.
His: Single-breasted three button wool stone suit from Hugo Boss, $800. Calvin Klein open collar shirt in gray cotton, $98.
California Casual--from Banana Republic
Hers: Gray stretch wool, spandex and cashmere blend menswear trousers, $148. Gray rayon and polyester mesh V-neck long-sleeve top, $88, with matching shell, $58. Open-toe Mary Jane-style shoe with stacked heel and toe.
His: White cotton ribbed crew neck T-shirt, $20. V-neck cashmere cranberry sweater, $178. Cuffed, plain-front crepe wool slacks, $148. Titan suede black boot, $128.
