What to wear to a book launch party

[RANSRN]

My friend wrote a book about divorce and I'm invited to her book launch party tomorrow night. It is a small, invitation only event and all she told me was that it was casual (couldn't get a clearer definition from her of what "casual" is to her). There will be media there as well as some big-wigs and rich and famous locals I'm sure. Would a simple black dress be fine, maybe with a fancy shoulder wrap for some color?

[kstrib]

Saying casual but then adding that media will be there is a contradiction. What should you wear?? Something you wouldn't mind having your picture taken in! I think the black dress would be fine but probably on the dressy side of things. If that's your style anyway, go with it. You could also get away with a pant & dressy top or pant and spring sweater set with cool accessories.


Kat

[NancyR]

Work it girl! Wear the dress and wrap and look gorgeous. You never know who you might meet, and it never hurts to look your best!

[RANSRN]

The black dress I'd wear isn't fancy, it's a basic cotton sheath so not really 'dressy.' May go with black slacks and a nice blouse. Depends on the weather. Wish I could get her to be more specific...LOL.

[psilverman]

I think you never have to apologive for being more dressed...

...and you feel more awkward if you are underdressed. I'd wear the dress, and the wrap, it is cold these days.... that will also make it feel more like an event, less like a business function (than the slacks).

[Dawnn]

If you are comfortable wearing a black dress that is what I would go with along with the shoulder wrap. Depends on the venue too - are they serving cocktails, etc. If it is at a chain bookstore, I would presume you could get by with a pant suit. Otherwise the black dress with a wrap sounds perfect. I am much more comfortable being overdressed than underdressed, so go with the dress...

[kstrib]

See, maybe that's why i said pants. I hate wearing dresses, so I wear pants most everywhere except where I know everyone will be dressy and then I wear a dress.

So, RANSRN, take that bias into account when reading my advice
Kat

[NancyR]

You can always dress it up with some fun jewelry!!

I'm not adverse to pants... but a night out, is a night out!! : )

[zmaditto]

Cat woman costume? I don't know! But I sympathize with you. I hate not knowing the perfect thing to wear to an event. I think a black dress is a very safe thing to wear to most evening events.

[dlp]

Do you have any nice black knee high boots. Those with a nice black skirt and a colorful top, is a fun, funky, dressy-casual look. Boots and dresses often look good too. Keeps it from being too dressy, yet still looks put together. Have fun!