What to Wear When: HS Reunion

Posted by Beth on 9/29/2011

A month ago, I received an email from a friend – the tone bordered on desperation. “HELP! My High School Reunion is in 2 weeks! What do I wear???” Although I'd normally keep her name a secret...her alter-ego’s name rhymes with Schmoozy, maybe you know her too?

Reunions are marked by excitement, nostalgia and for many, utter fear and dread. Plus, let’s be honest, who doesn't want to look and feel fabulous when we see that boy we were obsessed with in 10th grade, right?

Our friend shared how as a child she struggled with the process of clothes shopping so much that her mom wouldn’t let her eat until a shopping outing was complete and the necessary item was purchased. So, being the good friend I am, I told her to meet me at TJ Maxx at 11am and just like her mom had told her many years ago, I told her she couldn't eat or drink a thing until after we found the perfect outfit...better known as...no Starbucks until our Mission was Accomplished!

Schmoozy had a few requirements to start with and these are words of wisdom everyone should live by when shopping for an event like this:

1. The outfit needed to be great-looking and flattering to her figure, but also something that she felt comfortable wearing (i.e. this girl nixed any plunging neckline that would showcase the sisters too much).
2. Whatever she bought she must be able to wear over and over again.

Initially we were thinking of a dress, but after more thought and given the casual venue of this event, we decided to go the jeans route. One of the best looks for a night out is great-fitting, boot-cut, dark wash jeans with a fantastic top – something simple but festive in a flattering (not boxy) cut. Throw on a fitted blazer or a chic wrap in case it gets cool.

After a mere hour we had found her a pair of the best-fitting, most flattering jeans – and not to name drop, but they are Paige Premium Denim, found at fancy department stores for about 3x what she paid (thank you,TJ Maxx). We also found two tops – one in black and one in a gorgeous and flattering shade of purple. Both work perfectly with jeans and make great outfits for any night out, or with a blazer for work meetings. We finished off the look with 2” heels (not too high, not too flat), some flirty earrings and a chic bag. She walked out with the perfect reunion outfit and also breathed new life into her wardrobe. All this (and a few other classic pieces) for under $200, and with no tears or temper tantrums (priceless).