My Go-To Outfit for Every Formal Event

By: Dakota D. Duran

When I returned from college a few weeks ago, I experienced a schedule referencing a model during fashion week. While my parents were stressed over a week full of Mother’s Day brunch, my brother’s college graduation, and his graduation dinner, then followed up by my sister’s birthday celebration, I, on the other hand, was more stressed over what I was going to wear to every occasion. 

I love formal events primarily because of the getting ready and dressing up part, not because of the actual event itself (I have turned into quite the introvert and would much rather stay home). 

However, for the longest time, I never knew what to wear to fancy occasions as I didn’t want to be doing too much or too little. I tried to remain classy and chic, but also stay comfortable. 

After a few years of experimenting with my style and figuring out what works best for me, I feel as though I have finally accomplished a look that not only fits a look of sophistication but also stays true to myself and makes sure I remain snug throughout a nice dinner. Here is my go-to outfit for every formal event: 

Satin Slip Midi Dress 

If I had to choose a fabric to live in, it would absolutely be satin. Satin is a material that elevates your appearance, allowing you to exude an energy of regal elegance, while also letting you be comfortable and free. I hate wearing anything tight-fitting (my only exception being a bodysuit), so, when it comes to long dinners and parties, I always reach for a satin slip midi dress in my closet. It is not too short, giving you a look of class, but also not too conservative, making sure you don’t look like an 80-year-old grandma in the Hamptons. My favorites always come from the Wilfred brand of Aritzia, as I feel that this brand is full of items that are dainty, dashed, and poised. The specific dress, that I own multiple colors of, is the Only Slip Satin Midi Dress. When I go out, I enjoy wearing clothes that feel like pajamas, and this dress does exactly that. It is soft and flowy but also gives a look of grace. I have also found a lot of my slip dresses at flea markets and thrift stores, usually in the lingerie section. I alter the dresses to fit me perfectly after purchasing, and they always get the job done. No matter what event it is, I will most likely always be reaching for a slip-dress. 

Lace Maxi Dress

When I want to switch it up a bit, I will usually go from satin to lace. Lace is another one of my favorite fabrics, primarily because of the way it makes me feel, not actually because of the way it feels (sometimes it’s really itchy). I see lace as a very feminine fabric, one that embraces your divine femininity. It can make one alluring and sensual but remains cosmopolitan. I recently found this dress through an influencer’s Amazon storefront, and at first glance, I had to have it. I got it for my sister’s birthday dinner, but I can see myself wearing this when going out with friends or on vacation. I plan on purchasing the white one next, as I love the black one so much. 

Loafers

Following the pajama look, I always love to pair a slip dress with loafers. I love my slide-on loafers, simply because they feel like slippers. It’s like wearing Uggs, but when you want to feel a little posh. I found my favorite pair at Steve Madden a few years ago, and I still wear them today. The Kandi Black Leather loafers have become a staple in my closet, and while I wear these to events, I also wear them when shopping, getting lunch, or to class. Another option I love is the Khloe Black Leather loafers, as these have fur on them and add some flair to your look. Because I’ve had both pairs for a few years, I needed some new ones, so I recently purchased the Linnie Bit Mule from Sam Edelman. I would say that I recommend these more if you plan on doing more walking, as they feel more durable and are more shoe-like, in comparison to the “slipper” vibe.

Sneakers 

Sometimes, I opt out for sneakers, and this usually depends on where I’m going. If the place is fancy-casual, I usually use sneakers to dress down my look. My favorite sneakers that I own come from Golden Goose, and I usually choose my Super-Stars or my Mid Stars to go with my slip dress. I also adore the Oversized Sneakers from Alexander McQueen, when I want a more “sleek” look. I also love my Adidas Sambas, or my Platform Sneakers from Superga. I tend to choose sneakers when it is a daytime event, such as brunch, as I feel that those events are typically more laid-back. 

Kitten Heels 

If there was a pyramid of the shoes that I chose for events, kitten heels would be on top. These shoes are when I want to feel extra noblesse, and they give off a chic French feeling. I love the ones with a pointed toe, and while it is such a small detail, I feel that it can add a lot to a look. I have inherited all of my pairs from my mom, but Steve Madden and Revolve have amazing options. Even though I’m short, I actually don’t prefer heels as I choose comfort. Kitten heels add a good inch or two to my height, while also adding lush and aptitude.