In the heart of Manhattan, where the city’s pulse quickens with the rhythm of dreams and ambitions, stands the iconic Plaza Hotel, a bastion of luxury and sophistication. Recently, this illustrious venue played host to an evening of elegance and benevolence as guests gathered for a ball in support of Save Venice, a cause close to many hearts. Yet, as invitations graced mailboxes and excitement bubbled, there was a collective sigh of anticipation and perhaps a hint of apprehension among attendees. Themed events demand more than just attendance; they require meticulous preparation, a touch of creativity, and, of course, the perfect ensemble to grace the ballroom floor. Enter Lisa Sher Chambers, a maestro of luxury fashion, whose expertise turns the daunting task of dressing for such occasions into a seamless and exhilarating experience. This year Lisa won a prize for the best on-theme mask along with my friend fashion designer Andrew Yu. Let’s delve into the enchanting world of gala glamour and the invaluable guidance of Lisa Sher Chambers as we unravel the tale of our night at the Plaza Hotel.
What key elements should a client consider when dressing for an event with a theme?
One perfect approach I tell my clients is that all events have a theme, from a business dinner, graduation party, cocktail party, and masquerade gala.
The first consideration is the event’s objective. If the aim is to win business or close a deal, choose your most polished and professional attire. A little edge helps to set yourself apart. If the event is purely social, have some fun with your outfit and take fashion risks to the extent you are comfortable.
Even weddings have a theme, and that’s romance. Consider your outfit choices if the wedding is in a unique location. Also, consider who is hosting the event, whether a wedding, a Bar/bat mitzvah, or another get-together. Think about how much you want to stand out. There are always cringe moments when a woman’s dress is too revealing or outlandish, so be mindful.
If the event is a fashion show or a sponsored event, wear the designer or brand hosting it. If the event is sponsored by Oscar de la Renta and is more intimate, you will definitely want to wear Oscar de la Renta. If new is out of the question, opt for resale, vintage, or even rental from sources.
Another more obvious consideration is the dress code and the invitation itself. If the invitation is extravagant, you won’t have to worry as much about going all out; you may want to consider upping your style game more than ever! If the invitation is understated, remember that when making outfit choices. Often, you can take cues from the color scheme of the invitation when choosing what to wear as well.
Do:
Research the hosts to understand their demographics and the demographics of the attendees.
Research less apparent details of the theme. If the event is out of state or country, use national/state colors and flowers to really set yourself apart and start conversations.
Make sure your alterations, hair, and makeup are planned well in advance. If possible and within the budget, find beauty stylists who will come to you. This is helpful in case of rain.
Can you walk us through the process of planning an outfit for a theme event?
As soon as we hear about the event, we begin planning. Remember, even for the most outlandish themes, YOU are attending and need to feel comfortable and confident. Enjoy the opportunity to really express yourself while embodying the theme, and have fun!
Start looking at upcoming looks from your favorite designers and brands. Even if those brands aren’t in your budget, similar options will likely be available for similar styles as the event approaches. Set alerts on your favorite online shopping platforms for your favorite brands and styles.
Where and when is the event? Attire for an event in the mountains would be more covered up, warm, and cozy than for an event on a beach, which may be more casual and tropical.
Is this a multiple-day event? If so, we plan the main event first and get that covered. I am even there when the clients pack their suitcases.
If this is an annual event, research images from years before to see who attends and what they are wearing.
Suppose the theme is a hat or mask event such as Carnivale or a Kentucky Derby party. Decide if you want a custom-made approach and research milliners to make the perfect look that will fit your face and head perfectly. Jackie Cicogna Millinery in Katonah recently created an award-winning mask for me for a black-tie event, and she is super creative. Another idea is to purchase a hat or mask from Etsy and add your own crystals, feathers, and other embellishments. Extra embellishments can be purchased even at Amazon, but M&J Trimming in NYC will have everything you need.
Book your hair and makeup a few weeks out to have optimal timeslots. Ensure you have your favorite eyelashes (and go for extra glam if you dare) and have a backup pair. I love Velour lashes. “Would I Lie” for the daytime and “Final Touch” for the evening. They are relatively easy to apply. Don’t reuse a pair for a special event. Please ensure the lashes are brand new, stick perfectly, and have no makeup on them.
Ensure dress fittings and alterations are scheduled appropriately to avoid last-minute stress. If possible, have the stylists come to you. If it rains, that will be super helpful.
How can a client incorporate the theme into an outfit without looking too costume-like?
That is an excellent question because, let’s face it, what appears as fashion to one person may look clownish to someone else! If the event is fashion-based, clients may wish to take more risks, but they always want to feel comfortable and confident, even if they are pushing their boundaries. Regarding the hosts, the type of event, and other attendees’ attire, you will want to push fewer boundaries for a more subdued group. I try to make sure my clients feel comfortable but do not blend into the wall!
Are there any specific colors or patterns that align well with a theme outfit that can help a client stand out in the crowd?
If the client is comfortable, mixing colors and patterns is always fun. Mixing stripes and florals is a chic look that exudes confidence. If a client doesn’t feel comfortable mixing bold patterns, color-blocking is my favorite way to add some pizazz to an outfit subtly. Lastly, there is never a wrong time for sparkle. Try more subtle beading for daytime or gold and silver sequins for evening. I am also a big fan of accessorizing with the perfect chunky jewelry or wide belts over a dress.
Can you suggest accessories that complement a theme without overpowering the outfit?
Gorgeous headbands or headpieces are a beautiful change from a showstopping necklace. Fine jewelry (necklaces, earrings, etc.) is sometimes ‘expected,’ but a headband or tiara makes a statement and is (potentially) less pricey. I am also a big fan of accessorizing with the perfect chunky jewelry or belts over a dress. Sometimes, you can take a simple dress and transform the whole look with accessories, which is always a fun project. And accessories can ideally be worn on many occasions following the event.
Do you have any tips for makeup that would enhance a theme without being too dramatic?
Velour’s “Would I Lie” half-strip eyelashes offer a subtle flirty drama to the eye and are the most natural. Ensure you have a backup pair or two in case of glue mishaps during application. I love a spray tan, which requires a full day in advance. Consider temporary hair extensions for the ‘goddess’ look, and if possible, find a makeup artist you have used before or who comes highly recommended.
https://unsplash.com/photos/photo-of-woman-holding-white-and-black-paper-bags-_3Q3tsJ01nc
We all have our own preferences and our own styles in this life. The more people you meet, the more you realize how fast we are and just how subjective things can be. This is especially poignant when it comes to fashion and changing the looks of something or someone. Many of us take this very seriously, and some like to be more laid-back. Some want to show off their timeless elegance to anyone who will notice. Whatever your preference, it’s yours and something that makes you unique. You might not think things are that deep, but they do tend to be when it comes to your style and choice of fashion.
What you choose to wear and how you choose to look have a huge say on what you are like as a person. You convey to everybody else exactly what is going through your mind. It’s always interesting to see what people choose to wear to any kind of event or get-together. Here are a few examples of styles and what they can really mean:
Classic Elegance
Fashion enthusiasts often appreciate quality over quantity. They will value timeless silhouettes that never go out of style. You will typically have a refined and sophisticated personality. If you have a wardrobe filled with timeless pieces such as tailored blazers and little black dresses. You will have some attention to detail that suggests a real sense of professionalism and grace. You are typically drawn to pieces that exude elegance and understated sophistication. It doesn’t matter whether you are attending a business meeting or going to a formal event, you want to exude confidence and poise.
A Bohemian Free Spirit
Embracing this kind of clothing signifies a real love for flowy fabrics and whimsical accessories. If you, for instance, gravitate towards boho women clothing, the chances are that you are a free-spirited individual. You value creativity, self-expression, and adventure. This kind of laid-back approach reflects a desire for freedom and authenticity. You don’t mind marching to the beat of your own drum and embracing the beauty of imperfection.
Minimalist Chic
This kind of style almost goes without saying. If you are into a minimalist chic style, you are telling everybody that you like to keep things extremely simple and fundamental. You like to display a real sense of modesty. You’d like to show people that you don’t need to overdo it in order to be the best. Less really is more and you put a lot of emphasis on both functionality and efficiency. This kind of mindset is one of discipline – it proves to people that you want to live intentionally and that you very much value quality over quantity. Of course, that extends to many other areas of your life.
An Urban Style
When you think about an urban style, you might consider leather jackets, distressed denim, and statement accessories. This usually shows off a bold and confident personality. You may even have a rebellious spirit and desire to stand out from the crowd. Usually, you would not be afraid to experiment with all kinds of textures and colors.
Spring is finally upon us, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to refresh our wardrobes and bid adieu to the clutter of seasons past. But where to begin? Cleaning out your closet can feel like a daunting task, but fear not! I’ve teamed up with the esteemed luxury fashion stylist Lisa Sher-Chambers to bring you the ultimate guide to decluttering and revitalizing your wardrobe for the season ahead. Lisa’s keen eye for style and impeccable taste in fashion make her the ideal collaborator for this endeavor. Together, we’ll share expert tips and tricks to help you streamline your closet, identify timeless pieces, and embrace a renewed sense of sartorial elegance. So grab your favorite beverage, clear some space, and let’s embark on this journey to a more organized and chic wardrobe together!”
Start by assessing your closet and identifying items that it’s time to part with. Here are some things you should consider getting rid of today, and the first thing to consider is, do you love it and do you feel good wearing it? If the answer is no to both of those questions, the answer is unequivocally, get rid of it. Here are some additional considerations when making the keep, toss, or storage decisions:
Clothes that no longer fit: Whether they’re too small, too big, or just don’t flatter your body anymore, hanging onto ill-fitting clothes only takes up valuable space. Donate or sell/consign these items to make room for clothing that fits you well and makes you feel comfortable. With so many choices, be sure to carefully consider where you donate or consign your items. Consult, with an expert on this. If you love the items in question and they don’t fit, take it to a tailor to see if they can be altered.
Worn-out or damaged items: It’s easy to hold onto clothes that have sentimental value or that you think you might wear again someday, but if they’re damaged beyond repair or have seen better days, it’s time to let them go. This includes items with holes, stains, or stretched-out fabric. For really special pieces, like archival top designers or a dress you wore to your daughter’s wedding, for instance, consider storing these in a designated area of the house.
Trend-driven pieces that no longer feel relevant: Fashion trends come and go, and it’s natural for some pieces in your closet to feel outdated. If you haven’t worn something in the past year because it no longer feels on-trend or reflects your current style, consider parting ways with it. Also, some trendy items may still look okay, but if they don’t work with your current lifestyle, consider parting with them.
Uncomfortable clothing: We all have those pieces in our closet that look great but feel uncomfortable to wear. Whether it’s shoes that pinch your toes or a dress that rides up constantly, there’s no need to hold onto clothing that makes you feel uncomfortable or self-conscious. Sometimes, we hold onto clothes that have that je ne sais quoi, or a quality that cannot be described easily, but we don’t like the mood we are in when we wear them. That level of discomfort is absolutely unacceptable in the closet! Get rid of items that put a damper on your day!
Duplicates or similar items: Streamline your wardrobe by keeping only the best-quality and most versatile pieces. Do you really need multiple versions of the same item? Probably not. Let go of duplicates or items that serve the same purpose.
Items with tags still attached: If you’ve bought something and never worn it, chances are you never will. Be honest with yourself about whether you’re really going to wear that impulse buy, and if not, consider donating it to someone who will, or consign with a reliable source. NWT/NBW (new with tags/never been worn) often fetch the most value. Again, consult with an expert on which platforms or resellers are the most reliable.
Sentimental pieces that you never wear: While it’s nice to hold onto clothing with sentimental value, if you never wear it, it’s just taking up space. Consider repurposing sentimental items into something you will use, like turning an old t-shirt into a quilt or pillow. In other words, find a way to honor it. For higher value pieces like special occasion dresses, find a special place in your home to store them
By clearing out the clutter in your closet, you’ll not only make getting dressed in the morning easier, but you’ll also create space for new pieces that make you feel confident and stylish. So, take some time today to go through your wardrobe and let go of the items that no longer serve you. Your closet—and your mind—will thank you for it.
For more information or to enlist Lisa’s expertise please contact her directly, HERE.
ALso, Lisa is hosting a local fashion event, mark your calendars..its going to be a great event!!!
Welcome to Queensantiques, where the past meets the present in a dazzling display of exquisite craftsmanship and timeless elegance. Nestled in the heart of New York City on 25th Street the Flatiron District, the showroom invites you to step into a world of vintage glamour and bespoke treasures or you can shop online at their beautifully curated website.
At Queensantiques, Inga Levin, the founder, prides herself on being the premier destination for discerning collectors and connoisseurs of custom jewelry. Specializing in stunning unique pieces by acclaimed designers she personally works with such as Lawrence VRBA, Kenneth Jay Lane, Moans Couture, vintage Miriam Haskell, GRIPOIX Paris, Sorrell Originals, vintage CHANEL, Shreiner, MONIES, Polina Firenze made in Italy and more, the highly curated selection promises something truly special for every taste.
What sets Queensantiques apart is the unwavering commitment to authenticity and quality. Inga, meticulously handpicks each item, ensuring that only the finest art glass, Czech crystals, vintage rhinestones, and other exquisite materials are incorporated into all the magnificent creations she is selling. Whether you’re searching for a statement necklace, a dazzling pair of earrings, or a one-of-a-kind brooch, you’ll find it among Queensantiques’s carefully curated collection.
But Queensantiques is more than just a showroom—it’s an experience. As you browse the treasure trove of vintage gems and modern marvels, you’ll embark on a journey through the rich history of jewelry design. Each piece tells a story, evoking the glamour of bygone eras while remaining distinctly relevant to contemporary tastes.
We invite you to visit the showroom or the WEBSITE and discover the magic of Queensantiques for yourself. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply seeking a special gift for a loved one, Inga and her knowledge are there to assist you every step of the way. You are invited to explore the enchanting world of Queensantiques —it’s a journey you won’t soon forget.
What are some of the standout trends that emerged during Paris Fashion Week for the autumn/winter 2024 collections?
As we have seen recently, minimalism is all but gone, and maximalism is back; however, even at houses like Chanel, logos weren’t on full display as they have been in the past.
Change and freshness are everywhere. Notably quiet luxury brands like The Row demonstrated elements of creativity, modern silhouettes, and uniqueness, in addition to their already high-quality fabrics and mediums.
To see or not to see: sheers have staying power. On the runway, models often went braless, but beautiful undergarments by luxury brands like La Perla add elegance, interest, and coverage.
Larger handbags are back. Even for evening, micro bags have disappeared.
From your perspective as a luxury stylist, which designers or brands showcased the most innovative and captivating pieces during Paris Fashion Week?
I loved the looks at Chanel, Schiaparelli, Saint Laurent, Stella McCartney, and Chloe, but fashion insiders also talked about Loewe, Diesel, and Miu Miu. For my in-depth interpretations, call or email me!
How did the overall aesthetic and mood of the autumn/winter 2024 collections differ from previous seasons?
Creative directors seem to be embracing the shift for women to enjoy dressing again! It took a while following COVID for people to enjoy getting dressed, and then the trend was all about minimalism. Now, people enjoy putting thought and excitement into what they wear on a regular basis.
Were there any notable shifts or developments in terms of materials, textures, or color palettes that you observed across the collections?
Denim is now a staple in almost every brand. Whether for suits, pants, jackets, and even shoes and handbags, denim is integral.
Leather is also a staple material in almost every collection.
Mixing mediums like leather maxi skirts with sheer blouses is very on-trend.
Statement belts over outerwear add a tailored and polished look.
There is no rule for hemlines from micro mini, mini, knee-length, midi, and maxi, which are all on-trend.
Brown is the new black. Brown is the perfect color for a base piece and can be mixed with pretty much any color.
As a luxury stylist, how do you anticipate incorporating the key trends and styles from Paris Fashion Week into your clients’ wardrobes for the upcoming season?
Although luxury brands are typically on the pricey side, prices have increased in clothing and accessories. I encourage my clients to invest in pieces they can wear in multiple ways, and when they see their closets being taken over by one or two brands, it may be time to visit some newer ones.
I encourage clients to dress in what makes them feel their best. Whether it is a color that brightens their day or a fabric that makes them feel elegant, there isn’t a wrong time.
Take mirror selfies in your outfits before wearing them, particularly when purchasing prints. When viewed differently, clothing prints look different from different angles and at different distances.
In your opinion, what were some of the most memorable runway moments or fashion shows from Paris Fashion Week?
Fashion lovers anxiously awaited to see Chloe, with Chemeni Kamali as the new creative director, and Alexander McQueen, with Sean McGirr as the new creative director. It was a very interesting time for those brands.
How do you see the trends showcased during Paris Fashion Week translating into everyday wear for clients who want to integrate high-fashion elements into their personal style?
Mixing in bold, statement accessories is a great way to add some flair to a minimalist outfit.
Mixing textures and colors was all over the runways.
Chocolate brown is strong as a neutral color for a base piece and tonal dressing, or wearing different shades of a single color lengthens and streamlines the body.
If a client is a true minimalist, a classic pantsuit in a bold color rather than a true neutral would add some interest to their wardrobe.
Dress in what makes you feel empowered. This can mean different things to different people and situations.
Opt for versatile pieces. If you love a brand but are hesitant to invest in multiple pieces, find one staple, like a blazer or skirt, that can be worn in multiple ways.
From a styling perspective, what are some practical tips or insights you would offer to individuals looking to incorporate elements of Paris Fashion Week’s autumn/winter 2024 collections into their own wardrobes?
Invest in a long statement coat that you can wear almost daily.
Introduce color and use brown instead of black as a base color. It’s more modern and works really well.
If you are interested in meeting Lisa in person…..add this fun event to your calendars!!!!
