Dress for Benefit & Fund-Raiser

Whether it’s for political purposes or simply to raise awareness for a personal cause, at some point you will be called on to attend some sort of benefit or fund-raiser. Obviously the cause is of paramount importance, so you don’t want to detract from the purpose of said event by showing up in something totally inappropriate. To honor the situation, you must dress with some sense of gravitas. This is not a girl night out nor is it a fashion event, but you still should be able to infuse your outfit with a little personality.

Idea #1 – Pencil skirt + silky blouse + peep-toe pumps + structured bag

Idea #2 – Fitted sheath dress + sharp-shouldered blazer + closed-toe heels + quilted chain-strap purse

Idea #3 – Tailored pantsuit + feminine shell + vintage cocktail ring + oversized clutch

Go For: Neutral colors (gray, black, navy, brown), long-sleeves or cap-sleeve dresses, fitted pantsuits, feminine shells and blouses, pencil skirts, structured jackets, tailored dresses, ladylike bags, peep-toe pumps, one piece of statement jewelry, vintage jewelry.

Steer Clear: denim, wild or vibrant prints and patterns, strapless dresses, miniskirts, floor length dresses (unless it’s a black-tie benefit), biker jackets, strappy platforms, boots, edgy accessories.

Risky Business: Bright colors, prints and patterns (unless it’s a spring/ summer luncheon), sequins or metallic (only use in small does unless the event is black-tie), suits (you will need to dress up your suit with festive top and noncorporate accessories).

If you are worried about you not being formal enough, a good guideline to follow is to make sure there’ at least one structured item in your outfit. Another way to show that you understand the seriousness of the occasion is via your accessories like a structured bag and a ladylike pair of heels conveys something different than a slouchy hobo and flip-flops.