Yesterday was a gorgeous, sun-filled day here in Denver for the nation’s largest Derby celebration outside of Churchill Downs! The Annual DerbyParty brought it once again with mint juleps, fabulous food and outrageous fun – all for a great cause. For those of you who have not heard about this event, a portion of the proceeds provide a CSU scholarship (and sometimes more) to one lucky student (or more!).
This is Tony and I’s second year attending, and most definitely, will be an annual tradition. Of course, the party itself is spectacular, but almost equally as fun, is looking for our Derby attire and planning our outfits. Because of course, everyone is outfitted in their Derby finest.
I admit that I went through three outfits before I settled on the one I wore at the last minute! And, I couldn’t have been happier – for several reasons! First, the color!!! This season is all about color and this dress did not disappoint. Second, the style. Yep, the
cold shoulder/off the shoulder look. Thankfully, this style works well on me. Third, the fit of this dress. I have tried on so many of the off the shoulder dresses, and this is the first one in which it doesn’t look like I am wearing a potato sack (Eva’s words exactly). It is just enough balance of flowy material but with shape contour. I am a size 2 and the XS is perfect. Fourth, the versatility. This dress can be dressed up, down and all around. I can’t wait to re-style it for a night out downtown, a casual neighborhood gathering or a fun night at the beach. Finally, and you may want to hold your breath. The price! This dress is under $50. Yes, you heard that right. Under $50 and comes in navy and ivory. I personally don’t think the material would be great in ivory, but I am contemplating the navy. One thing to keep in mind – it does wrinkle so keeping a wrinkle-release spay handy could be a life-saver.
Thankfully, the other two dresses that I considered were coral so I was able to make the switch and still use my fascinator. And, it was a good thing as it was a DIY number, and I couldn’t return it. I started with this adorable straw-colored Fascinator
In terms of other accessories, I kept things simple. I LOVE all of the fun statement earrings I have been seeing on other blogs, and wanted to try them for myself. I checked around at several online retailers only to end up finding these cute Austin earrings. They are absolutely adorable and not too heavy. The best part – these earrings come in variety of colors and patterns and they are only $12.99. I will be picking up a couple more of these since I just received a coupon in the mail for $10 off a $30 purchase. Didn’t get the coupon, no worries. Head on over to www.retailmenot.com, search Charming Charlie and it will pop right up.
Finally, the shoes! These shoes are to die for, and they came with a “to die for” price! $99.99 for Kate Spade New York Pumps at TJ Maxx. And, they have just the right amount of “sparkle” for a Glitter Girl. Unfortunately, I can’t find these online; I suggest you run to TJ Maxx and you might just get lucky. And, if you aren’t, here are some possible alternatives: Kate Spade Fuschia/Poppy Sandal, Kate Spade Slingback, Sam Edelman Yaro Strap Sandal (Blue), and Botkier Gianna (Grapefruit).
Well, that’s it for Denver DerbyParty – My Style – check back this week for some other Denver DerbyParty styles that we uncovered at the event. I promise – they are Glitter Girl approved.
xo,
Hilary