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Original poster

Help royal garden party outfit!

11 replies

everygalaxy · 23/04/2015 08:34

I'm lucky enough to be representing my WI at a Buckingham palace garden party in June and have no idea what you wear!Confused the dress code is afternoon dress with hats. I'm size 20 in my 20s and normally wear 50s style dresses for anything formal.
Any ideas/ would be really appreciated!

OP posts:
Bearleigh · 23/04/2015 08:41

I often pass by BP when people are coming out of the garden parties - it's lovely seeing people in their finery, and the men in the services wear their uniforms, so it's a bit different even from weddings.

Most people seem to take it as a great opportunity to push the boat out. You'll be one of the youngest being in your 20s, so I don't think you should play it too safe - go all-out retro!

Please don't go for a fascinator - see the 'find me a fascinator' thread - unless they are really expensive they seem to bring an outfit down (IMHO). Could you find some pics of the Queen or P. Margaret in the 1950s and aim for something like that?

Original poster
everygalaxy · 23/04/2015 10:08

Thanks that is really useful - wasn't sure about dressing up too much but I think I will get a new fifties style dress! Smile

OP posts:
OvertiredandConfused · 23/04/2015 11:03

I've been to a Buckingham Palace garden party twice. Definitely an occasion to dress up.

Agree that a hat is better than a fascinator.

Clutch bags can be challenging with food and drink so I'd suggest a shoulder strap that you can use when necessary.

There is a lot of standing around and, statement of the obvious, it's on grass so do think carefully about footwear.

Also, plan for the weather. Being uncomfortable because you're too hot or too cold really isn't fun and I've seen lots of women have their day spoilt by the inappropriateness of their outfit - I mean in terms of temperature and rain.

Wear sun block if it's hot - minimal shelter and have a smart brolly if it's hinting at rain, for the same reason. If it's cool, have a jacket. If it's scorching then don't have an outfit that requires a heavy, long-sleeved jacket or cardigan to look finished.

Have fun - it's a great experience and you'll meet some fascinating people

Higgle · 23/04/2015 11:39

I was invited to ne a few years back. Lots of variety in what people wore but I think the best advice would be to wear what is your style and you feel best in. I had a silk Toast dress, a cardigan with silk ruffled edging and a lovely Bailey Tomlin hat I found on ebay. Most important thing of all is to make sure your shoes are super comfortable. Apart from all the standing around, walking round the garden and not wanting to sink into the grass it may be quite a walk back to your transport. It is a wonderful experience and I'm sure you will have a great time.

kiwidreamer · 23/04/2015 13:27

I have no fashion advice but love the sound of going all out in the style you feel most comfortable in... have a wonderful time!!

CheekyBambino · 23/04/2015 13:33

I'm a WI member but sadly wasn't chosen in our ballot. :( hope you have a great time! Agree with the pp re dressing up and making the most of it.

Original poster
everygalaxy · 23/04/2015 16:28

I'm so lucky love my WI ladies! It's my birthday the day of the garden party and I've helped get the group off the ground so as a treat everyone else dropped out of the ballot Blush could have cried happy tears.
Thanks for all the advice I burn to a crisp so good call on the sun cream!

OP posts:
AmethystMoon · 23/04/2015 17:20

I was lucky enough to go last year, it's amazing Grin
My biggest tip is wear wedges or even flats, NOT heels! You'll sink in the grass! Yes you'll need your hands for the drinks and yummy food so shoulder strap bag or a clutch you can firmly wedge under the arm you hold your plate with.
Definitely a hat occasion and a fifties dress sounds perfect. Go for it, it's a great opportunity to dress up beyond the average wedding guest attire. I did make sure I could wear everything again afterwards though, although not all together!

TrulyTurtles · 23/04/2015 17:26

Oh our rep is in her early 20s too, dead chuffed for her that she is going. She too is at a loss, but she is very tall and slim so shouldn't be too much if a problem

CrystalGlitz · 23/04/2015 17:53

Congratulations OP, what a wonderful time you'll have!

Lady V London have loads of tea dresses and vintage swing styles that would be perfect for a garden party. Haven't bought from them myself but they are well-rated for quality and not too expensive.

Enjoy your birthday!

Original poster
everygalaxy · 26/04/2015 18:45

Thanks everyone might treat myself to one of these as I have a few summer weddings too! www.vivienofholloway.com/women-c70/dresses-c10

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