What to wear to a Bar / Bat Mitzvah Pt. II
For any young Jewish girl, a bat mitzvah is no dull affair. And the excitement of such happening in a girl’s life and her family’s comes of course, with a proper celebration, a theme, invitation cards, a delicious kosher catering, emotional speeches and a very well thought dressed code that will make the event not only meaningful but also fabulous.
However, with all those themes going on and the ever-present need to impress your peers, the dress code can put a significant amount of stress on anyone. Whether the theme revolves around a medieval fantasy, an all-that-glitters unicorn extravaganza, black & white event or a glamazon soirée, it’s almost certain that you can find the perfect outfit in your wardrobe to attend the bar / bat mitzvah.
Regardless of the theme, there are rules that will always prevail. In most cases, the dresscode on the invitation will read something like casual, dress to impress, black tie optional or black tie only. In the second part of these two-part article you’ll find recommendations to dress for the more formal events. Below, you’ll find ideas that will help you look your best at that bar / bat mitzvah, regardless of theme and the venue:
• When the bar / bat mitzvah is a more formal event and the dress code states black tie optional, it means that if you don’t have a tuxedo or an evening gown appropriate for a gala you don’t have to feel obliged to get one. On the other hand, there’s no reason to feel overdressed or out of place if you show up in your fanciest attire.
Black tie optional also means that shorter dresses are allowed, as long as it’s elegant and the entire outfit is nicely put together, accessorized and combined with the appropriate hair and makeup. You can combine a tulle skirt of your choice with an elegant corset-like bodice, bejewelled pieces, rhinestone accents and beaded dresses are safe choices.
Short stretchy skirts, crystal corset-top dresses and strapless satin jumpsuit can be easily combined with an elegant structured top, a sequined sheath, a faux fur wrap or personalized clutch; and it all can be complemented with small-stoned jewelry, depending on how accessorized your outfit is.
• A black tie only event is your time to shine like a movie star. In fact, black tie wear nowadays is mostly inspired in celebrity looks worn to gala events. You can channel your inner star and aim for evening dresses made in luxurious fabrics such as airy and light, chiffon, silk and satin; or more structured ones like leather, jacquard or other fabrics embellished with crystals, large rhinestones and intricate beadwork.
Edgy embellishments and accessories are allowed, same as spongy, stretchy fabrics like neoprene. Aim for black metallic heels, embellished clutches and crystal jewelrypaired with strapless sweetheart necklines. Also, for pieces in jewel tones and feather wrap or open-backed gowns in textured fabrics, slitted décolletages and vintage necklaces.
As a final note, always remember that a little black dress never goes out of style; and if your event demands a long gown, you can go with navy blue and nice textures. The navy blue bit, also applies to guys who might not want to go with a traditional black suit. Although heels are still the staple, crystal and stud embellished sneakers are trendy, now.