When people talk about fashion they like to start with the do’s and don’ts, but at The Bello Mo Group we like to focus on the do’s. Fashion should always be about doing you. Of course you must always consider the type of event it is and whether it’s formal or informal.
The number one key to “doing you” is comfortability. Although the goal is to be fashion forward and fly 24/7, it shouldn’t feel like a uniform. Clothing should always be comfortable for the one wearing it.
The second key is to be yourself. Dress for you and only you. I think we all get inspiration from trends we see through social media and red carpet events, and there is nothing wrong with that, but try to find what works for you. Expression through fashion is less about trends and brands but more about self-reflection and identity.
The third and final step is to have fun. Walking into your closet to choose what to wear shouldn’t feel like a pain, but an opportunity to express who you are and what you’re feeling. This is where life and fashion run parallel, in the sense that how we dress is a reflection of how we feel or what we want to convey. Your choice in clothing and how you wear them also affect your mood and overall confidence.
The Fourth Annual Derby Affair is an opportunity to introduce who you are amongst many others looking to express their personality through fashion. This year’s event will be held in 5 Points at River & Post Restaurant and Rooftop Lounge. While many will be celebrating Mexico’s Independence Day, The Talented Tenth has given the City one more reason to party and enjoy one another around a great cause.
So the question still lies in… What do I wear and what should I avoid wearing? Again, let’s not focus on ‘what not to do’ but instead ‘what to do’.
Here is your 2018 Derby Affair Fashion Guide:
1. Do Color
The month of May will be blazing hot in Duval County so please consider Mother Nature when designing your ensemble. With this in mind try lighter fabric colors that won’t absorb so much heat. So if you love wearing dark blue and charcoal greys in the Fall and Winter simply trying going a few shades lighter for Spring and Summer.
Explore colors you may not usually wear. Try yellow with blue, lavenders and pinks, creams, off-whites, tan with teal and white with everything. Also, make sure you consider 100% cotton fabrics, linen, linen-wool blends and of course seersucker to beat the heat.
2. Do You
At The Bello Mo Group we believe that life is not a dress rehearsal and the Derby Affair is certainly not an exception. For the novice fashionista or recent GQ subscriber bring you’re A game and don’t hold back. You’ve read the articles and scrolled through the blogs, now it’s time to suit up and get in the game. Whatever ideas you had circulating around in your head - Do It. Those shoes you’ve been saving to wear – Wear It! Fashion geeks shouldn’t need a boost; an event like this should already have you charged! Remember fashion is not a uniform, but a lifestyle.
3. Do Accessories
Accessories for formal events are like garnishments when fine dining; usually very subtle and at times unnecessary. At a Derby Affair, accessories are essential and can really define character in your ensemble. Fellas if you typically wear neckties go for a bowtie. If you traditionally wear conservative color ties add some flavor perhaps and try a floral tie and handkerchief combination. SharpCrispClean is a great source for tie and handkerchiefs. Hats and umbrellas are other accessories that are popular at Derby events and will add character to your attire and also shade you from the sun.
