What Do I Wear to a Black Tie Optional Event?

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Hi, Thank you in advance for your advice. Here is my problem. My husband's Christmas party is coming up very soon. The affair is black tie optionaland I have no clue what to wear! I do have a very simple spaghetti strap length floor black dress. The problem is I have put on a few pounds since the birth of my kids and I feel a bit self conscious in it, and I am worried that it won't be appropriate for this occasion... Any suggestions?

Black-tie optional is one of those designations that sends a lot of people into the same dilemma. What exactly does it mean?!

The good news is that at its essence, it means you should dress up and be festive. It sounds like your long black dress would be perfectly appropriate for the occasion, but if you're uncomfortable in it, it's going to show in your face.

My suggestion would be to wear something else simple that you're more comfortable in, (preferably in black), and dress it up with accessories. Wear a strappy, dressy, high heel in a special fabric, sheer dark hosiery (the sheerer, the dressier), and some jewelry that sparkles. Bare skin is also an indicator of dressiness, so bare arms or showing some shoulder (as your long dress does) are good options here.

If you really want to wear your long dress (and it sounds really beautiful) is to try some different supportive undergarments with it. Department stores have a great selection now of things that go way beyond the girdle--full body support, things with stretch and Lycra that are a lot more comfortable.

Whatever you wear, your best asset is confidence and comfort--both show in your face and make you shine. Good luck!!!

Regards,
Kat