Summer Solstice 2012: What to wear...

Its no secret that the Summer Solstice Party at the Cleveland Museum of Art is one of my most favorite events of the summer. Last year, I did a post-mortem on some of my favorite looks from the event, and you can be sure that I will be doing one again this year. However, this year, I also have a preview- a sort of what-to-wear in the event you're attending and are stumped. My favorite part about this post is that all these outfits are from our very own, locally-owned store, Room Service!!

Here are my rules for dressing for this event:
1. The crowd is an all-ages, all-styles crowd. The older crowd tends to be dressed a little more formal- full length ball gowns, taffeta, silk... the younger crowd is more edgy- leather, lace, very much on trend, some music-festival like outfits. In short, anything goes. Wear what you feel comfortable in, because you're going to want to dance. If there's an outfit or look you really want to try but don't have quite the place or occasion to try it, THIS IS IT. Take risks, have fun! You will NOT look out of place no matter what you choose as long as its YOUR style.

2. Shoes: Invariably, you will end up in the grass. Just remember, grass + skinny heels = sinking. I usually wear wedges to this event, but an espadrille or pretty flat would work really well.

3. Accessories: Don't carry a clutch purse- it will just get in your way. This event calls for a wristlet or cross-body-- something that keeps your hands free for hand-holding, drink-holding, picture-taking, tweeting, dancing, etc. Have fun with your jewelry, and if you feel like wearing a hat, GO FOR IT!


A popular choice for women is a dress-- its easy, effortless, comfortable, and looks pretty and dressy without being stuffy.  These Room Service dresses are adorable and completely on trend, so if you're at a loss for what to wear to Solstice, or really any event this summer, these are all excellent options!

I love this blue dress- its flirtatious and sexy with the sheer lace, and has sleeves for those of you who are uncomfortable with your upper arms. 

White, is well, white hot this summer. The little yellow detail is unexpected and yet totally adorable!

Tangerine Tango was Pantone's color of the year, so you absolutely cannot go wrong with this color. I might pair this with a red or hot pink shoe and incorporate some subtle color blocking via the shoe as well! 

How cute is this print with the little yellow detail?!?!? 

Room Service may not be the first store to come to mind for party dresses, but as you can see, they have some really REALLY cute options! I hope you will stop in or call and check them out for yourselves!! 

Are you attending the Summer Solstice Party at the Cleveland Museum of Art this year? Are you attending any other Solstice celebrations?

Rules for successful dress shopping

For those of you attending Jump Back Ball next weekend, I really hope you already have your dress! However, if you don't, and are planning to go dress shopping this weekend, I have some tips to help you have a greater shot at success! (And really. these rule apply to all dress and jean shopping occasions).

So here goes:
1. No salt, sugar, carbs or alcohol for 24 hours prior to your shopping excursion. If you're allergic to dairy, avoid this as well. This is crucial. Consuming these items will result in bloating, which in turn means your will likely feel like crap and consequently hate everything.
2. Drink green tea for a few hours before your excursion. This will help with any inadvertent bloat, and may help you go potty (something about the warm fluids and your digestive system. I'm not making this up- its ancient Indian wisdom. For real).
3.  Wear your Spanx. Look, let's be honest- we all have parts of our body that we feel could use some work, and for most women its their tummy/hips. Spanx help smooth the jiggle. Don't fight it. If it works on the Hollywood red carpet, it works on YOUR red carpet. Embrace your Spanx. And then take them off the minute you get home.
4.  Do your hair and makeup. You may be feeling lazy on a Saturday/Sunday morning, but DO NOT miss this step. 90% of dressing rooms have terrible lighting and result in shadows, particularly on your face. If you go make-up free, you will end up focussing on your dark circles and splotchy skin and hate everything you try on.
5. TRY STUFF ON!! If you're not comfortable trying stuff on in the aforementioned poorly lit changing room, check the stores return policy and take them home to try on. Make sure you leave all the tags in and keep your receipts so you can return things appropriately. AND, make sure you try at least one item you wouldn't normally try. Step outside your comfort zone. You never know what you may find.

My 6th tip is optional: Personally, I prefer to shop alone. However, if you're the kind of person who likes to shop with other people, make sure you take a friend who will be HONEST with you. Don't take Yes-men/women. You need honesty. And, if all else fails, just email me pics at cleshopaholic@gmail.com. I promise to respond.

Well, there you have it! Happy Shopping!!!!