My fair ladies [and gents]: A guide to formal attire

September 10, 2009 by Anna Katrina Concepcion 

With Greek rush week and homecoming around the corner, students need to know the formal dos and don’ts

In high school, formal attire for girls meant going to a large department store to find some monstrous conglomeration of tulle and lace and crossing your fingers no one that night shows up in the same dress.

For the guys, it meant getting perfectly fitted in a stuffy tuxedo shop and still purchasing an oversized suit because your parents know you’ll grow into it.

I remember getting my hair done at a fancy salon, putting on an ungodly amount of make-up and hoping my date remembered to pick up my corsage.

Prom and homecoming weren’t just school dances. They were monumental events that happened twice a year. And did I mention they were ridiculously expensive?

Formals in college are completely different. Las Vegas is home to hundreds of designer shops, independent boutiques and thrift stores. You’ll rarely be seeing double.

But between Greek formals, sport banquets and swanky nightclubs on the Strip, you can’t afford to make a big commotion for every night out. Hopefully, this guide to formal attire can help you save money and gain style points.

Hair, Skin, and Nails

We locals love beauty schools. Why? Because you can indulge in a $6 manicure and a $20 facial and your boyfriend can get a haircut for $7 or a line up for $3.

Make-up

MAC is arguably the best make-up money can buy (money I don’t have because time-traveling publishers released revised history textbooks). Fortunately, you can get your MAC on for free.

MAC counters located in Macy’s department stores offer complimentary makeovers. Different locations may vary, so call ahead. For those that do offer this service, schedule an appointment for the day of the event.

Bring in a photo of what you have in mind or leave it to the cosmetic connoisseurs. You can purchase reusable false eyelashes and have them professionally applied for about $11.

Shoes

There’s nothing that screams “amateur” more than a girl dressed to the tee wobbling about like a peg-legged pirate because she can’t walk in her overly ambitious four-inch stilettos. For those ladies who aren’t accustomed to walking on the balls of their feet, opt for shoes with a wedge heel or gladiator-style sandals. Also, nude-colored shoes make legs appear longer, and are neutral enough to wear with any color.

For the guys, I went to an expert. Frankie Gonzalez, a sales lead at Aldo says, “European style shoes are in, so it’s all about narrow shoes, whether it be a nice narrow round-toe shoe or a boot-inspired shoe.” Visit aldoshoes.com for a visual.

Underwear

Underwear is a very personal decision. But as a self-respecting woman, I ask my fellow females one favor: wear panties. I realize panty lines are right up there with apocalypse in the list of things you hope won’t happen, but they are a must. Bare Ultimate seamless panties by Victoria’s Secret are made of a thin microfiber fabric that will never show lines. Another smooth option is Hanky Panky brand panties, which are available at Nordstrom.

My advice for the guys: those ‘lucky’ boxers you’ve had since you were sixteen are actually the antithesis to luck. Cartoon characters and large dollar signs definitely don’t set the mood. Just keep it clean and simple.

Clothing

For the latest trends, head to Marciano, Bebe, or Betsey Johnson. Because these dresses are made with high-quality fabrics, they will offer the most flattering fits. Their affordable counterparts are Hottie, Arden B., and Forever 21. For those with quirky taste, feed your style at Modcloth.com or Annie Creamcheese. My rule of thumb for dresses is to wear a dress that either accentuates your legs or your cleavage – not both!

The best advice for guys is to buy clothing that fits. Don’t be afraid to ask sales associates for a fitting, multiple sizes to try on and a second opinion. This is what they are paid to do! The trick to saving money is to buy one great-fitting two-piece suit which consists of a blazer and slacks. This is the base for many outfits. Choose a neutral color that can be worn year-round. If in doubt, choose black. Calvin KIein and Express carry young, modern fits that mimic tailor-made suits.

For semi-formal events, you can utilize your suit two ways. The first look consists of your blazer, a button-down shirt (no tie) and slacks. Instead of traditional long-sleeved button-downs, try fitted military shirts from Express. The second semi-formal look pairs your slacks with a button-down shirt.

A coordinating vest makes the second look more interesting. For the vest choices, shop H&M or Banana Republic. For formal events, gear up in your blazer, slacks, a button-down shirt and a tie. And unless you are a Chippendale, no bow-ties.

Keep in mind the best accessory is confidence. The second best is a hot date and confidence should help your chances of attaining that. Stay classy, formal Rebs!