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So tomorrow I am going to the theater (for those of you in DC, we are going to dinner first at Notti Bianche, and then walking to the Kennedy Center) to see Phantom of the Opera. I have seen lots of theater performances, but never Phantom (though I did see the movie but that doesn't count). We are going with a couple who we have been friends with for many many years but haven't seen in a bit since they moved to Virginia.
I spoke to my female friend in the couple, she said she would probably wear pants and heels; we both agree jeans are not theater-appropriate, but feel that in the summer getting super dressed up seems inappropriate. She is a petite little thing who carries off the very simple styles of J. Crew and Banana Republic with ease, I can see her in a soft blue tailored shirt with cuffs, crisp black trousers, very cute black kitten heels, a Tiffany bracelet, delicate necklace and a Coach purse. She has red hair and beautiful pale skin. As we all know, simple is not my middle name.
So what should I wear?
I was thinking the olive shift dress with the leopard-print heels, long gold necklace and gold bracelet, but we will be taking the Metro, so will be walking several blocks. Those heels are fabu, but so skinny of a heel they get caught in every sidewalk crack and wouldn't be good for walking to the restaurant, walkign then to the theater, and then walking to the metro. My husband said we could take cabs, but I think the weather is going to be lovely.
I don't mind walking in heels, and think any shoes would be fine except the leopard, the black and brown crocos in the same style, and my hot pink pointy pumps. Should I just be a commuter and tuck my black ballet flats in my bag for the longer of the walks? this is what I am currently thinking, to have them if the going gets rough. But I would love to hear what you suggest, since you always ask me for my suggestions! 🙂
UPDATE: One should always check the Metro website before stressing. It is one block from the Metro to the restaurant, four blocks from the theater to the Metro come the end of the evening, and our friends are driving so they may give us a ride to the Metro at the end of our double date. but still, I would love to hear your ideas!
I love what you decided on! The red necklace looks great with the black dress and heels. Excellent!
I suggested black trousers because for most people this is a basic staple item in their wardrobe. (Is there anyone out there who doesn’t have at least one pair of black pants?) and I think I recall one post of Allie’s where she was wearing a printed kimono top. Good luck and please let us know what you decide to wear!
Well, I’m late leaving this comment and you are probably at the theatre as I write this. My vote is for the black ribbed tank from Caslon, black and ivory print jersey skirt from Rachel Palley, silver hoops from The Icing, silver cuff, black leather thong heels from Target. I’ll be interested in hearing what you chose…
Since you asked!!
I vote for your black t-dress, a scarf and jazzy jewelry with the leopard heels. I would tuck the ballet flats into a bag if it were me. Nothing ruins an evening like mincing along with sore feet.
I like the sounds of the outfit- but I would consider black wide legged trousers under the shift dress… could really take it up a notch! have a great time!
I can’t wait to see what you chose!!! I’m sure you looked great! Hope you had a great time.
I’m so happy I finally delurked after approx. 2 years of reading!!!!! It’s nice to come out of hiding. I don’t know what took me so long.
Thanks again for blog!
Jennifer from PA
My vote is your Teal jersey dress from Proenza Schouler for Target. Very classy!
I am so relieved to hear you dress up for theatre. I am a theatre technician, which means, I make the magic and I get so frustrated with people who wear grungy clothes to what should be a special occasion.Even when Ive worked at The Kennedy Center people have dressed like they tumbled out of bed. I ADORE your blog- I am addicted to it. You really should look into a book deal!
why not your black and white rachel palley skirt, with your old navy tape waist empire sweater, and either your black peep toe croco shoes or your red peep toe croco shoes?? bring the flats in your bag so you can wow with the shoes!!
BTW i LOVE your blog, I read it all the time!! your posts are so inspiring!
Ditto the earlier comments. I was going to suggest black trousers and a bright sweater (the pink one from yesterday works or the apple green one). As much as I love your teal dress, I think that might be a bit too much even. You could do the black Lily dress though.
The Kennedy Center isn’t really dressy… more just classy.
Olive dress is a bit sloppy, I agree.
Thursday, May 17, 2007 outfit with the shoes from Tuesday May 8th. Or the leopard print pumps. Very posh.
Okay, you guys are all so fabulous! Tonight my husband works late so I will be playing dress up looking for inspiration!
The olive dress I don’t think would be your best choice. Since it’s linen it gets very wrinkled and sloppy looking.
What about that long black dress? Or the teal baby doll with black pants? By the way, you look great in teal.
Also, I’m officially delurking! I enjoy reading your blog and seeing what you are wearing! Thanks!
Jennifer from PA (who’s brother lives in DC and owns a cool bar/billiard on U Street called, Cue Bar). FYI
okay, here are my suggestions:
your black t-dress, a sassy scarf tied around your neck and fun shoes.
your teal baby doll top and a pair of charcoal or black slacks.
your coral crinkly gauze baby doll top and a pair of charcoal or black slacks.
and your silver cuff, natch.
I have no fear you will look super cute in whatever you choose.
Regarding the shoes, I’d wear the leopard print heels and see how you do. In the meantime, throw the ballet flats in your bag in case the sidewalks present a problem and you need a break (or your hubby asks you to stop holding onto him for support). 🙂
Nice Amethyst, but does Allie even own any of those things? i think she wants to go with what she has in her closet all ready.
Allie, how about that black dress you recently wore to a wedding, but with your black thong heels? That can dress up or down and those shoes must be comfortble since you wear them all the time!
Have fun!
-Shanee from Chicago
I would opt for practical yet stylish and wear an outfit like this: a pair of black pants/trousers and a brightly colored top (maybe a kimono print top or a bright colored tunic) and with trousers, you can get away with wearing a low-heeled or flat shoe without feeling frumpy because the trouser hides it. Add a long dangly chain necklace and earrings if you wish and you’re set. Make the blouse the focal point of the entire outfit. After all, it’s a fun night out, so I wouldn’t want to bother carrying another pair of footwear in my purse.
Oooh, what a fun project! Well knowing how those in DC dress for the theater, the olive shift may be a great choice, or even black pants and your black heels with some cute little top… will you be going to a bar or club afterwards?
I’m not sure the olive shift dress is the best choice for the theatre. Maybe your teal dress from Proenza or the green and white wrap dress from H&M. They are more flattering and seem a little dressier. As long as you can hang onto your husband in case you step in a crack, I’d say go with the heels! Have fun tonight!
-Sharon from Catonsville