The invitations begin arriving around now, and with them the small panic of what to wear. I find it helps to have a few rules decided in advance so the decision is already made by the time the evening comes.
Sequins, before dark, done right
A sequin skirt is less intimidating than it sounds. Paired with a plain fitted knit, it becomes almost casual — the sparkle reads as taste rather than costume. Keep the top quiet and let the skirt be loud.
Velvet, for the rooms with candles
Velvet was made for low light. A wide-leg velvet jumpsuit is the single most forgiving thing you can wear to a dinner — it is comfortable, it is dramatic, and it requires no second thought once it is on.
The rule for all of it
One statement, everything else calm. A sequin skirt wants a bare knit; a velvet jumpsuit wants nothing but an earring. The mistake is wearing two loud things at once and asking the room to choose.
The party pieces I am wearing this season are gathered in The Fall & Holiday Edit, and the dresses for the dressier nights are in Date Night. Decide once. Enjoy the evening.
— Sabine