As the owner of Mosaic, Susie Perelman
attends a wide variety of events throughout the year. Here are some stylish tips that you can apply to any special occasion.
What would Susie wear to….
A Black Tie Gala
To me, a black tie affair is all about
romance. I love light weightless
chiffony fabrics. Being smaller framed, when I wear heavy sculpted fabrics,
sometimes I cannot pull it off. I prefer pastels, metallic and soft toned hues. Oscar De La Renta is one of my favorite designers. Delicate accessories and high graceful heels complete the look for
me. Choos, Manolos and Louboutins are my
go-to shoes because they are comfy and classic. While I may pull a piece of
hair back, I most likely wear it down and at times even have extensions in my hair,
creating a long flowing look for my black tie affair.
Susie (in Oscar de la Renta) and her
husband Gregg at Forces of Nature benefiting EPTA’s
Susie’s tips…
1) Pay attention to the type of event it
is—Going to a wedding? Don’t wear a white or ivory gown. Going to a Gala in the
Arts- funk it up and make your outfit more playful with color or accessories
and select a gown from a cutting edge designer.
2) Select something appropriate for the
time of year – wearing a nigh necked or
long sleeve gown in summer can be hot and comfortable. Wearing a strapless
chiffon in winter and having to keep a shrug or wrap on all night never allows
guests to see how gorgeous your outfit is!
3) Take the time to do it right—going to
a black tie affair requires some prep. Plan your outfit, make an appointment
for hair and nails, and do a dry run to make sure it is all coming
together (and that you don’t require new
undergarments) will make the big night more fun. Last minute scrambling for an
undergarment or to paint your toes will just cause stress.
An Art Opening
Selecting just one outfit to wear? Impossible—
there are always so many great options out there to mix and match. For a casual
opening in an artsy neighborhood, I would opt for skinny jeans, some super high
chunked out or platform heels and an artsy top. For footwear, I would definitely opt for Charlotte Olympia, I just love their eclectic designs and they
are super comfy (as far as 4”-6” heels go!)
Charlotte Olympia Shoes
Yigal Azrouel is one of my favorite designers who
draws inspiration from a melting pot of global culture. His pieces tend to be
on trend and fun, especially since you don’t have to dress in his collection
head to toe.
Yigal
Azrouel Fall 2013
Jewelry and accessories can
be funky and artsy if the outfit is more simple and tailored. A chunky necklace
with raw cut stones, a big wrap bracelet or dangling oversized earrings would
be my choice of an “anchor” accessory for a simpler outfit. I became obsessed
with Fendi years ago, and most seasons
they incorporate an incredibly funky fun bag onto their runway collection. I love to give
a little creative punch to my ensembles with a special Fendi bag when attending
art related events. As a boheme at heart, you may find me incorporate a few
small braids into my hair when going out. And with naturally curly hair, an art opening
would be the perfect place to go as a curly girly!
Susie’s tips…
1) Don’t overdo it. You cannot wear an
artsy top, some funky earrings and a “to-die-for” bag all together. Select one punch of color or piece of jewelry
and it will carry your look for the night.
2) Go a little wild with the makeup.
While I traditionally stay natural or go with a smoky look, incorporating a new
of-the-moment lip color or eye shadow adds flair and fun to any outfit.
3) Carry yourself with confidence. Sometimes the art world can seem
esoteric and intimidating. The good news is that most artsy souls welcome
different perspectives and opinions. So grab a glass of wine, and jump right
into the conversation. You will come home with new insights and perhaps a new
friend or two!