Corporate Charity Gala

Once again, we’re faced with an event that merges work colleagues and champagne. Dressing can be a challenge, especially when the invitation calls for black tie. The charity gala where your company has bought a table is a formal event, but one in which your boss will be present so don’t approach this like you’re J-Lo going to the Grammys. The basic tenets of Black Tie apply here, as discussed at length in this recent post, but avoid anything too risqué as you do not want to be the subject of Monday morning whispers at the office.

Shop The Look ×

RACHEL ZOE

Alison Pearl Embellished Halter Gown (similar HERE and HERE)

JOCELYN

Feather Bolero (similar affordable style HERE)

STUART WEITZMAN

Nudistsong Ankle Strap Sandal (similar style HERE)

MINZA KHAN

Pari Clutch

LANCOME

Lancôme L’Absolu Rouge X Camila Coelho in 158 Copacabana

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE

14K Yellow Gold Chain Bracelet (similar affordable style HERE)

BEN-AMUN

Triple Strand Imitation Pearl Bracelet

MIZUKI

Genuine Pearl Station Bracelet

MAJORICA

Simulated Pearl Drop Earrings

The Vibe:

Styling Tips:

The Rachel Zoe Alison Pearl Embellished Crepe Gown is the ideal gala dress. It’s polished and formal, but doesn’t spare any femininity. Its best feature is certainly its timelessness—there’s no question this will look just as spectacular in a ballroom ten years from now as it does today.

RACHEL ZOE

Alison Pearl Embellished Halter Gown (similar HERE and HERE)

LANCOME

Lancôme L’Absolu Rouge X Camila Coelho in 158 Copacabana

MINZA KHAN

Pari Clutch

We’ve discussed how much I enjoy dresses that come with their own jewelry, and this ultra high, pearl-embellished neckline is a perfect formal example. With a dress this serious about its pearl accents, dangly statement earrings are likely not invited to this event. Keep ‘em simple and short to avoid an overly busy look. Your bracelets can certainly enjoy themselves, though.

MAJORICA

Simulated Pearl Drop Earrings

MIZUKI

Genuine Pearl Station Bracelet

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE

14K Yellow Gold Chain Bracelet (similar affordable style HERE)

BEN-AMUN

Triple Strand Imitation Pearl Bracelet

To this occasion, our highest heels are certainly welcome, but remember that you’ll be on your feet much of the night, so opt for a pair that aren’t punishing. Regarding your bag, it’s a clutch. I don’t care what other bags you see swinging around all evening, bring a clutch. As for outerwear, a dressy faux fur jacket or stole won’t go amiss given the weather and will be a chic addition to a classic look.