Because getting dressed for something special should feel exciting—not overwhelming

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There’s something about a special event that makes getting dressed feel… different. Whether it’s a wedding, a work function, a dinner party, or a gallery opening, the stakes feel a little higher. It’s not just about looking good—it’s about feeling like yourself, but a little more elevated. A little more intentional. A little more styled.

I used to overthink event dressing to the point of exhaustion. I’d try on a dozen outfits, panic-order something new, and still walk out the door feeling like I’d either done too much or not enough. But over time, I developed a process that helps me get dressed in a way that’s fun, strategic, and most importantly—aligned with my personal style.

If you’ve ever stood in front of your closet with zero clue what to wear to something important, here’s how I approach it now.

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Step 1: Understand the Vibe

Before anything else, I try to get a feel for the energy of the event. What’s the dress code? Where is it? Who will be there? Is this indoors, outdoors, formal, artsy, traditional, experimental?

I don’t ask these questions to conform—but to know the canvas I’m working with. There’s a huge difference between a cocktail hour in a hotel ballroom and a creative industry mixer in a converted warehouse. Knowing the vibe helps me interpret the dress code in a way that still feels like me.

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Step 2: Start with One Anchor Piece

Instead of trying to build the entire outfit at once, I choose one piece I’m excited to wear. It might be:

• A blazer I’ve been waiting for the right moment to style
• A silky dress that always makes me feel confident
• A vintage top I want to make the hero of the look

Once I have that piece, I build the rest of the outfit around it. Starting from something I already love makes the process feel grounded and personal from the beginning.

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Step 3: Use Pinterest (or Your Own Camera Roll)

I’ll scroll through my saved looks—either on Pinterest or in my own photos. Sometimes I’ll spot a combo I wore months ago that feels perfect with a small tweak. Other times, I’ll save runway or street style looks that capture the mood I’m going for.

I’m not trying to copy a full outfit—I’m trying to absorb the feeling. Is this sharp? Soft? Playful? Minimal? Bold? Once I know the feeling I want to channel, everything gets easier.

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Step 4: Style It Out the Night Before

I try the outfit on with everything—shoes, accessories, bag, lipstick, jacket. I snap a photo in the mirror to make sure it looks as good as it feels. Sometimes I’ll try two versions and let myself sleep on it.

This step has saved me so many chaotic outfit changes. When the day of the event arrives, I already know I have a look I love. No scrambling. No second-guessing.

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Step 5: Ask, “Does This Feel Like Me?”

This is the final test. Do I feel like the best version of myself in this outfit—or like I’m wearing a costume? It can be fun to experiment, but I’ve learned that I feel most confident when I stay rooted in what already works for me.

If it passes the “me” test, it’s a yes.

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Getting dressed for a big event doesn’t have to be overwhelming—or expensive. When you style with intention, shop your own closet, and trust your taste, the whole process becomes more empowering than stressful.

The goal isn’t to wear the “perfect” outfit. It’s to wear one that feels right for the moment and for you. Because when you feel like yourself, you walk differently, speak differently, and show up differently.

And honestly? That’s what people remember—not just what you wore.

By Julia Belian