For my male readers you may want to skip today. Actually I
want to skip today, I’m one of those women who don’t really like to do what I’m
writing about. But I’m being forced into it against my will. I have to go shopping.
Normally it’s all right, I like looking for comfortable,
casual clothes, but this shopping experience is not casual. It’s time to shop
for a mother of the groom outfit. Scares me to death.
I’m asking my friends here, those of you who know fashion,
to send me some ideas or websites that I can look at. I’m going to wear pants –
I just don’t like dresses at all. It’s not a big fancy wedding. I’m looking for
something chic, classy but not really frilly. See I don’t even know what I want
or where to begin to look for it. And let’s just say I don’t wear a size 3 or
anything. I need something that would look nice on someone who isn’t exactly
skinny. Any and all suggestions will be appreciated.
Have you ever shopped at Chico's? They feature clothing for women over twenty-five. If there is not a store near you, I know there is an on-line site.
ReplyDeleteSunny,
DeleteWe don't have one here, but there is one where my sister lives. That is a good place to look.
Hi PK, I'm sorry, I can't really be much help in terms of suggestions, especially not knowing what stores etc are available in the US. I just wanted to wish you luck in finding an outfit. I'm sure you will find something that is perfect :)
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Roz
Roz,
DeleteThanks. It's been so very long since I've really cared whether or not I looked really good. But I'd like to for LJ and Colin.
Ooooh!!! How wonderful PK!!! :). Congrats to you, Nick and your son!!
ReplyDeleteI think that if you pop in to a Talbots you may find what you are looking for, or someone who could help you! I know that they have a petite store if you need a shorter length, as well as a women's store if you need plus sizes. I have had success there in the past, when looking for dressier occasions. While its not an inexpensive store, it can be fairly reasonable as far as dressy stuff goes. I also like Loft and they often have coupons and sales.
I'm no expert but id be happy to try to help you. :) There are many different cuts of pants these days, and something for everyone, I'd say. :). Not exactly sure what's appropriate but a pair of black or grey slacks are pretty classic and classie. You could add color by wearing a nice blouse and a pretty sweater, maybe open and longish? A pretty pair of comfortable heels. I wil look around for ideas for you, PK. :). If I find stuff I'll send you pics!
Katie,
DeleteYou have described something I've really thought about, the gray or black slacks - pretty sweater or jacket and a colorful scarf. I've just never been too good at this. I don't mind asking a sales lady for help or even spending more than usual. But I still worry about finding it.
I think the suggestion of Chico's was great. I know a woman who wears Chico stuff all the time and it looks very classy and the clothes are made of some soft, stretchy material which make it uber comfy too. I would also suggest Coldwater Creek. They have pretty, dressy but still casual clothes. Here are the links:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.chicos.com/store/home.jsp?
http://www.coldwatercreek.com/
I hope shopping is as painless as possible and congratulations, mother of the groom!
Cygnet,
DeleteThanks for the links, I'll surely be looking at them. Both of these places should be in my sister town. I'm heading there in Sept.
I think you need to try on some stuff before you go online. I also suggest you take your daughter with you. We have a Nordstrom Rack by us. I like the store because you can by casual and fancy. All the ladies have great store ideas. My daughter helps me by encouraging trendy and then I balance with some realism for my figure. I will think some more!
ReplyDeleteAnd can I say YAY?!!!!!!!
Minelle,
DeleteNorstrom - I will put it on the list. I've never had too much luck with sized ordering on like and I'm not good at getting things sent back. But I might try on and then do some ordering.
Not sure of the shops you have near you but if you don't want to wear a dress you can get lovely trouser suit. Think you would look great in one. Will it be cold or warm in NY at that time of the year? Take Mollie with you.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Ronnie
xx
Ronnie,
DeleteMollie will be going shopping with me for sure. Nov in NY could be anywhere from slightly cool to freeze your butt off cold.
OK PK,I should probably take your advice and pass on this, but with less than 2 month to go before my daughters wedding, I can relate. Nina has picked her second dress and is still not sure if it is "the one"!
ReplyDeleteI will tell you what I told her. Don't worry, whatever you wear will be fine. You will look great and as long as you are comfortable in your outfit and you feel "dressed for the occasion" you will have a splendid time at the happy event.
Blessings,
George
George,
DeleteI sure hope you're right. In my mind I just don't want to embarrass my son. The boy loves me and I could come in jeans without bothering him - but I still worry. I just want him to be proud of me in front of all his NY friends.
Figure out what size you are- and if you are curvy size 12 or up, I would suggest you look on line at Jessica London- They usually have beautiful pantsuits for formal occassions- you can check them out on line. This is an important occassion, so if you see something you like order it in the size you think you are and one size bigger- look at the online reviews if they have them, those give you an indicator of how things run (true to size or small etc) Return the one that doesnt fit- they usually do free returns, but this is an important occassion and the pictures are forever- you should look your best. :)
ReplyDeleteAnon,
DeleteThat is excellent advice, thank you. The two size idea is really good. If I order I'll do that for sure.
I agree with Minelle try different styles on and take Mollie or a trusted friend. I ended up buying 2 for my son's wedding thought I had found the one...and then found a better one. Good luck...
ReplyDeletehugs abby
Abby,
DeleteLOL, I'll probably get several the way things are going. Mollie and my sister should be along.
Omg how exciting I love dress shopping. I don't know what size you are but I wore phase eight dress for my son's wedding. I loved it, perfect shape, lovely crease free fabric. you can order online. Try on lots and make sure your other half likes it. Have fun
ReplyDeletelove Jan.xx
Jan,
DeleteCrease free sounds great since we'll be flying. I need to figure out my size by trying on - that part is so depressing.
I do not really know the stores they have in the states, but trying some on in the store first to get an idea of the size you like best, and styles might be good. Some stores you can even go into and ask for a sales person to help you find something for your body type. I understand the struggle, I am large myself, and finding something that flatters my figure is hard and discouraging. I hope you find something you like though. :) I have never bought clothes online... closest was when I used to buy from the Sears catalogue, but wish you all the best as you look. {{{HUGS}}}
ReplyDeleteEs May,
DeleteYou see beautiful things on line or on a mannequin, but what I see in the mirror will never be that. I need to realize that in my head and just go for when looks okay on me.
PK. I hate buying clothes too. Nowadays I go out on the web and order home and try at home in peace.
ReplyDeleteRecommendable.
Mona,
DeleteI really don't know why I have to get out of shorts and sweats - but I guess I do have to.
How exciting! Have you thought about Palazzo pants? I've never worn them but I know of women that have worn them to their children's weddings because they didn't care for dresses either. I don't know what size you are but I saw a pretty jacket on Macy's website. Online is nice but I prefer to try it and take a friend with you. The jacket I am referring to is Alex. You may find something at the bridal shop. Good luck.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.trendy-plus-size-clothes.com/Plus-Size-Cocktail-Pants-Suits.html
Kaki,
DeleteThank you! I will check out this site, I'd really like a light weight jacket. Once I finally get it picked out I will post a picture.
PK, I like these two sites for plus size clothing:
ReplyDeleteAlight.com
Kiyonna.com - not inexpensive, but lots of very cute, flattering plus sized dresses. I love this site. And dresses that cover your arms! ( Do they not realize if you are plus sized, you probably don't want to expose your bare arms?? )
Good luck!
Thanks Mickey,
DeleteAnother one of my pet peeves about plus sizes is that they must think our heads are 3 times the size of a normal head, I hate the huge necklines.
Everyone has had great suggestions! I'm sure you'll find something you like. Buying more than one outfit is what I usually do. Wishing you success!
ReplyDeleteThanks, I do want to look good for my boy.
DeleteHey PK...You've already received all the stores I would have suggested...the only thing I will suggest is that you check with LJ and Colin to see if they have chosen specific colors for their wedding party...you will definitely want to coordinate with those colors. I'm sure Mollie will be happy to go shopping with you and will give you great feedback.
ReplyDeleteGood luck...
Cat
Cat,
DeleteI have no problem with these two men getting married, but I'm NOT wild about two men planning a wedding! I can't get much information from them. Thankfully his old college roommate is helping them and she is also officiating. I think I need to get info from her.
Oh, PK, I know the stress of finding a dress, but so exciting! :-) I am sure you will find the perfect outfit for you. Find a color that compliments the wedding party and that is becoming on you. I like the idea of classic pants in black or gray/silver and a touch of color on top and a dressy jacket, perhaps chiffon...or a dress suit in stunning solid color. There are a lot of great flowing, travel friendly fabrics that can be quite flattering and are wrinkle free. Try on lots of different styles - sometimes the style you don't think you will like may be the one you like best and sometimes you know just what you like. I hope you find something that makes you feel beautiful. I am sure Colin and LJ will be happy with whatever you choose. Good luck. :-)
ReplyDeleteTerps,
DeleteI'm kinda looking forward to looking. For one thing I'm not going to worry about money for this outfit (or outfits!)