Do You Have a Special Occasion Coming Up?…Don’t Forget the MOST IMPORTANT THING |

Have you ever come home from an event bemoaning, “I wish I had worn something else?” Well, we all have. But, most likely you were not happy with your outfit because you didn’t put enough thought into what you were going to wear.

In 2018, I wrote a blog titled, “What is Wearer’s Remorse.” In that blog, I mention how often women say if they had a chance to do it over again, they would have worn something different to a special occasion (mostly because they see themselves later in unflattering photographs).

Poor, prior planning produces a pitiful product. (A phrase I used when I taught school, that can be applied to almost anything…even dressing.)

Alas, there is an easy remedy for wearer’s remorse. It’s called a DRESS REHEARSAL...and I don’t mean for the stage.

Recently, Janna’s assistant, Diane Jordan, was involved with her granddaughter’s presentation at the Festival on the Brazos, in Waco. Diane had multiple events (both formal and informal) to attend. If you know Diane, you know she is a fastidious planner. So when it came to preparing what she’d wear for each activity, Diane was ready. Because she started early and planned each ensemble with intention.

Diane was kind enough to show us the outfits she wore. And prior to all the events, she had a DRESS REHEARSAL in her own bedroom–in front of a full-length mirror.

Tips to Avoid “Wearer’s Remorse”

Here are some tips Diane recommends to make sure you are “ready” for your big event(s):

Pay close attention to the dress code or theme on the invitation. You don’t want to be thrown any “curve balls” as Diane calls them. (Remember, the later in the day, the more formal the dress, unless otherwise stated.)
Try on garments as soon as you purchase them to see if any alterations are needed, because alterations may take many weeks. It’s a good idea to give your seamstress a deadline.
When you try on your outfit, do so in front of a full length mirror, so you can see how your shoes, bag, and jewelry look together.
Accessories make the difference. If your outfit appears too casual, search out more formal accessories. Or vice versa–if too formal, try accessories that will casualize the look.
Intentionally decide how you would like to appear when you enter the room: elegant, approachable, slim, fun, chic, colorful. This will help you choose your garment.
Take photos of your completed look. Then there is no chance you will forget an item when you are packing up, or hurriedly getting dressed for the actual event.

A FEW MORE TIPS FROM THIS FASHIONISTA:

If you have a bow or a wrap to be tied, pre-tie it exactly the way you want it and place it on a hanger (as in the photo shown above). That way, on the day of the event, all you have to do is slip it on and it will already be tied to perfection. No chance of rushing and getting it wrong!

Put all your accessories and shoes for each look together. (Jewelry can be tucked into handbags.) You will have everything together at your fingertips. Diane had multiple pairs of shoes to coordinate with her looks, but you could simply wear skin-toned color shoes or any that match your hemline.

Always keep in mind your personal coloring, when choosing garments. Diane is a GENTLE COLOR TYPE. Monochromatic looks are great for her. Everything is light and feminine. Notice in the second photo, she chooses pearls the color of her eyes along with a green accent necklace that complements the embroidery on her top.

For this look, Diane chose a semi-metallic handbag to go with her floral dress. The iridescent sheen of the bag reflects the colors in her dress and the bag appears to match the dress. (You can use this trick with anything you wear.)

BE PREPARED! These blister blocker products helped Diane get through it all. Available on Amazon.

Why should you go to all the trouble to be super-organized for special events? The answer is: the more prepared you are, the more comfortable and confident you will feel. And the more FUN you will have.