What does "Country Club Casual" Mean?
By Karin GreenbergWhat to wear when the invitation says "country club casual?" The term once brought to mind collared golf shirts; khakis; Bermuda shorts; and just-above-the-knee golf skirts--all worn while walking the well manicured grounds of an exclusive country club.
Today, the term, and the dress code have taken on new meaning. Here, a fashion expert demystifies this elusive expression in terms of what to wear as the weather turns cool.
What Goes On Top?
Rhoda Kregsman, owner of Mazarro, Ltd. a women's clothing store in Huntington, New York, says that the not-too-dressy, not-too-casual party look is easy to achieve. Starting with tops, here's what she advises:
- Dressy sweaters: Choose a beautiful, unusual sweater. Try one that's crocheted; or embellished with pearls or intricate stitching; or perhaps a cashmere cardigan with pearl buttons.
- Feminine blouses: The romantic look is in, particularly in blouses. Opt for a cotton or silk button-down or tie-neck blouse with lace embroidery, a ruffled collar, or floral beading.
- Beautifully styled jackets: A key component of any dressy-yet-casual look is a well styled jacket. Shaped or belted jackets are fashionable right now, and tweeds are both versatile and very much in vogue.
Bottoms Up!
Any of the following can complement a dressed-up top. Try these flattering styles:
- Tailored slacks: Go for wool or silk pants, with legs well-fitted and not oversized.
- Pencil skirts: Streamlined skirts are simple, elegant, and fashionable. They should fit smoothly over your curves and should hit the middle of the knee-cap or right below it. Add a fun, patterned stocking such as a black fishnet.
- Textured corduroys: There are many great patterned corduroy pants that often come with matching jackets, which make corduroy just dressy enough.
- Velvet jeans: They're comfortable, rich-looking, and perfect when paired with a dressy top and stylish belt.
Shoes complete the look
Footwear can bring the outfit together and make the dressy-casual look work well. Here are some styles that kick casual up a notch.
- Ballet slippers: This season, ballet slippers add a classy finish to a casual pants suit. Consider two-toned or patent leather, or decorated styles.
- Delicate loafers: These comfortable shoes can also carry the casual look. Just make sure they are not too casual; avoid chunky rubber soles.
- Pumps: There are many flattering heels that look great with dressy pants. For this particular look, steer clear of clunky, thick heels or shoes with cork or rubber soles. Patent leather Mary Janes are a new look, this season, as are shoes made of rich fabrics and animal-look prints, or embellished with studs.
- Boots: To make a look more dramatic, there are plenty of buckled, embroidered, or otherwise decorated boots. A pair that has some outstanding feature is the way to go.
Accessories
Great accessories can always make a casual outfit look more elegant. Here are some of the hottest accessories, this season:
- Belts: Belts are spectacular and are focal points on their own. Oversized, beaded, metallic, or embroidered belts are abundant in department stores and boutiques. Worn under or over a fitted jacket, try a belt with contrasting color or texture. Over a blouse or larger sweater, the belt can be worn more casually, dipping below the waist.
- Precious Stones: The right jewelry will always help make an outfit fit the occasion. For the country club casual look, leave the diamonds at home and go for beautiful semi-precious stone necklaces or earrings.
Celebration Poll
Special Occasion Outfits
You're looking for a special dress for a party: What's your biggest challenge?
As for color, Kregsman stresses that black is always safe. And classic matching pants suits, in most colors, work just fine. Do avoid blue jeans (too casual) and cocktail dresses, which will leave you feeling like you're at the wrong party.
Whatever you wear, remember that nothing completes an outfit better than a warm, confident, and genuine smile.
Click here for warm weather "Country Club Casual" fashion ideas and tips!
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