Chic for Cheap: A Group Birthday Party

* Gunmetal Bead Earrings at Forever 21 * Rosebud Salve at b-glowing * Joelle Wool Coat at Forever 21 * Angie Knit Dress at Forever 21 * Metalic Rib Tights at Target * Black Layered Effect Tote at Target * Two-tone Patent Pump with Buckle from Newport-News *

Today's chic for cheap look was created at the request of reader Shannon.  Here's how she describes her outfit needs:

"I'll be attending a group birthday dinner for a friend/law school classmate at an Italian restaurant followed by drinks at a bar or two.  Boring, you say?  Wear anything?  Lol.  Well, here is the first twist.  I would very much like to turn this friendship into something more, so I want to look fabulous without looking like I tried too hard.  The second twist is that the birthday boy's father is coming in from out-of-state for the occasion,
so my look also needs to be appropriate for meeting the parents.  Yikes!  It's taking place in the middle of January in Minnesota, so no sundresses.  Haha.  Also, I am on a student budget, so although I very much want chic, truly cheap is also a primary consideration!  Maybe I can even add an item or two to my Christmas list if I get some ideas in time.  Is it possible to find an outfit that will both knock my friend's socks off AND leave a good impression on his dad?  P.S.  I'm 25, just so you aren't imagining an outfit for someone much older or younger."

I really had my work cut out for me on this one, but I had fun putting the final outift together.  I think it might also be the most affordable look I've ever done for a C & C post.  If you want to help Shannon out, leave a link to an outfit of your creation (using Polyvore or your own program) in the comment section below.

P.S.  I added in some Rosebud Salve so you can have your kisser in tip-top shape for the occasion Shannon.  Have fun... here's hoping that everything goes exactly as you hope it will.

Comments

[Melissa Brown]

This is awesome hun! You rock! Not only is it fabulous, but, it is SO affordable! I love it and the rosebud salve is an adorable touch! :)xoMelis

[Melissa L.]

Great outfit. I love love love the dress! The tights, shoes and bag are great too.

[Elizabeth]

What a great outfit - good luck Shannon!

[Eleanor]

i think the best way to go to knock off a guys socks off in an inexpesive way is to go classic french chic. a simple color pallete of black and white with a splash of color @ the feet & purse goes a LONG way. You can never go wrong with that. And it's easier then actually going out & buying a outfit. i suggest getting a crisp white blouse and a fitted black pencil skirt, then thick tights, and nice boots.top it off with a gorg necklace. and dont think about it too hard. it usually turns out better if you dont. Good luck!

[Caroline @ Patagonia Gifts]

How can I always LOVE your outfit combos? I adore those earrings, Ez! xoxo

[Lynne]

I am loving ribbed tights right now. Except that a friend recently told me my legs looked chunky...think he was kidding! Not sure ribbed tights would help.

[Shannon]

Shannon here. :) Oh, this is just beautiful! I love it! Both looks are just darling. I think I will wear one to dinner, and then maybe I'll get to wear the other on our first date! Lol. The rosebud salve is a perfect touch too! I must pick some up ASAP! Thank you so much! I'm off to go shopping!

[Jacinda]

I absolutely love this! The Rosebud Salve is the perfect little extra touch! What's also great about all of this is that it's perfect for mixing with other accessories and outfits. You really cannot go wrong with black and grey.

[megan]

What a pretty outfit-I love those shoes! This was a great round of C & C: I had a fun time putting together my outfit as well: http://sweet-low.blogspot.com/2008/12/chic-for-cheap-group-birthday-party.html

P.S. Good luck Shannon :)

[Tella]

I had fun putting this together, though my outfit is definitely on the casual side. I guess that's just more my style.

http://tellacrafts.wordpress.com/2008/12/02/winter-night-outfit/

[Jill]

http://goodlifeforless.blogspot.com/2008/12/chic-for-cheap-group-birthday-party.html

here's my submission - have fun Shannon and good luck, wink.

[Christie]

http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/set?id=5004174

Good luck! :)

[Design Lovely]

Those earrings are super cute and so affordable. Great Outfit and I love Melissa's too.

[amy]

just discovered your blog yesterday, and saw this outfit and completely FELL IN LOVE. sadly, forever 21 seems to no longer sell this dress. i searched a variety of clothing sites last night looking for something similar, but no such luck!