What to Wear
Covid reinforced that comfort is key to feeling great in your clothes. While I’m not suggesting you wear sweatpants to your daughter’s graduation, I am saying to keep comfort in mind while putting together your outfits. And because we are still in the pandemic, many celebrations are mostly outdoors so the weather should determine your level of comfort.
If it’s going to be in the sixties and overcast, wear pants and a sweater rather than the beautiful dress you may have been planning. Bare legs and open toe shoes while out in the the wind will pull your attention away from the people and ceremony you are celebrating.
If it’s going to be in the eighties and you’ll be in direct sunlight for the afternoon, consider the fabric content of your outfit. Natural fabrics such as cotton, linen and silk will keep you more comfortable than any polyester blend.
What Not to Wear
Stilettos and kitten-heels on grass and gravel. It will be hard to walk, you may ruin the heels of the shoes and you’ll feel uncomfortable and sad. Not the feeling-tones we’re going for now that we can be together celebrating once again!
An outfit without layers. Spending long periods of time outdoors almost guarantees changeable weather. If you’re stuck in a (beautiful) cashmere sweater and the sun comes out, you’re going to be unhappy and uncomfortable. Always have a finished layer underneath so you can remove the top piece and still feel dressed. And don’t forget a pretty coat or jacket in case the weather goes in reverse—something appropriate over a sundress rather than the cardigan you grabbed at the last minute which kind of just “kills” the whole look.
Anything that you haven’t tried on, all together. For these special occasions, make sure you give yourself the gift of time, ahead of time. Try on the outfits—every single piece. Take a picture so you won’t forget anything when it comes time to get dressed or pack.
What to Bring
Contingencies!!
Here are some ideas:
a packable down jacket in a cute zippered pouch. This is a great “seat cushion” if needed and can layer under a pretty Spring coat for when the wind starts to whip.
a cute rain poncho you can carry in a purse
a pretty visor for the blaring sun
a full outfit change in the car if the festivities will include an indoor restaurant/component or you want to take pictures in something specific
a compact sunscreen that fits into your bag no matter the temperature. Here is my favorite!
Final thought: as many of these celebrations tend to be far from home, this is one time that I wholeheartedly advocate for over-packing. Bring choices! You won’t be sorry.
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