1. Nine West Love Fury Pumps2. Parker Architect Beaded Dress3. Kate Spade Boxed Teardrop Earrings4. Lulu Townsend Metal Mesh Minaudiere Clutch
Outfit
Louise Brooks, Clara Bow and other seductive 1920s movie stars glamorized the flapper on screen. They wore flashy beaded dresses to serve as a reaction against Victorian fashion. With the current hype surrounding “The Great Gatsby” movie, why not rock this art deco shift dress to your formal? All eyes will be on you! So, do you have the spirit of a reckless flapper in you?Date
You have your dress all figured out now, but what about the perfect accessory—your date?! Besides the bend and snap (just kidding), how are you going to land your man? My favorite way I invited someone to formal was spelling “Formal?” on a cookie cake in pink and blue icing. Of course, I also included a glass of milk and a silly straw. Another super cute idea would be to decorate a cooler for your date. If you’re artistically challenged like me, reach out to my “little sis” Lauren Murphy who just started her own affordable cooler design business, Southern Customs.Beauty
Long lashes seem to be an obsession these days. Volumizing mascara doesn’t cut it anymore! I’m a huge fan of wearing Katy Perry false eyelashes to punctuate my look for an event. But the other day, I discovered Ooh-la-Lash when I was walking to Starbucks on Hillcrest to get my daily caffeine fix. Mother daughter duo Tahnh and Tanya Huynhand charge $150 for a full set of eyelash extensions that last 6-8 weeks. For the month of February, Ooh-la-Lash is offering an $89 special only for Brooke du jour readers! Whisper my name when you walk into the adorable pink studio : ) Full disclosure: I hear eyelash extensions are seriously addicting!Dinner
You want a fun vibe to get you pumped up for formal so make a dinner reservation for a big group. If you’re craving sushi, Naan on Cedar Springs is always a popular choice. Penne Pomodoro and Bandito’s in Snider Plaza are both SMU staples as well. Groups like to cater at apartments as well if you’re looking for something more low-key.I hope my party-prep tips help make your night extra special. Have fun! Break out your dancing shoes, ladies!