Formal dresses and high heel shoes are not items you will find in my closet. It’s not every day a simple Mom is invited to attend a black tie event, so imagine my stress when my husband asked me to find an outfit for a winter gala.
Last Friday my husband and I attended a gala hosted by the New Haven Symphony Orchestra to honor the Mayor of New Haven and one of CT State Representatives. I knew the event was important, so I wanted to find the perfect outfit to wear. However, I don’t have black tie ready dresses hanging in my closet or the funds to buy a new formal dress. My solution: Rent the Runway. I’ve always wanted to try Rent the Runway and this was the perfect occasion to rent my first dress. 
What I Wore
I ordered the Slate & Willow Green Gabi Dress in a size 0 and 2, but wish it was made in a smaller size. While it looks like it fit me perfectly, the top was a bit baggy and I prefer a more snug fit around the bodice in a dress like this. My favorite features of the dress were the high low hem and pockets on the skirt. I paired the dress with a pair of Badgley Mischka bow pumps (from my cousin), a simple gold necklace, a David Yurman bangle, and diamond studs.
What He Wore
Brandon wore his three piece gray suits and a black tie. It is SO much easier for a guy to get dressed for a black tie event because they can just grab any suit in their closet. If the event required a tuxedo though, Brandon would have had to rent one. We did decide someone should start a company where guys can rent formal event outfits in the case that they don’t have something hanging in their closet.
Shop This Look
Since most of my clothing is still in storage, I didn’t have a formal coat to wear. My friend loaned me the most beautiful red ruffle collar wool coat from J.Crew that I wish would permanently live in my closet. I wore furry paw gloves by April Marin that I received as a gift at a CT Blogger Babes event in December. My hair was done by my favorite stylist Jennifer at Serenity Salon in Wallingford. If you’re looking for a haircut, hair color, or even an updo, give her a call and say I sent you!
Brandon and I had so much fun meeting new people at the Gala, eating delicious food, and maybe crashing an event next-door later in the night. We found a live band and danced to some great 90s hits until the wee hours. We have not had a long night out alone in forever, so the next morning I needed about six cups of coffee to get out of bed.
Overall, our black tie event proved to be a fantastic evening. I loved being able to really dress up and the ease of renting a dress was a process I’ll definitely repeat. If you’re heading to a formal event any time soon and need
Photography: Elizabeth Grant Photography
This post is not sponsored, but does contain affiliate links. All opinions are honest and my own.
You look stunning!
Thank you!
I love the dress you choose, and I think rent the runway is such a great idea – why invest in formal dresses you are only going to wear once? Lord knows we always want to have something new for every occasion anyway! Also your bow heels are just the cutest! Glad you had a wonderful evening at the Gala!
Chic on the Cheap