It’s here. My 30 year High School Reunion. That’s right, it’s tomorrow! I’m actually super excited to see old classmates, most of whom, I have not seen in over 10 – 30 years. That said, I know each of us has our own mixed emotions about our own high school reunions, including the big question; what do I wear? After reviewing my options with a few girlfriends, I settled on this fun, colorful cocktail dress by Halston Heritage, that I had worn out with my husband, for our 20th wedding anniversary in Vegas, back in May.
I love this dress, the fun colors make me happy and I already own all the correct foundations, shoes and accessories. I made my appointment for a blowout and nails. Check – I was set. Set that is, until I read on Facebook, that the attire was “Casual Cocktail”. Whaaaat? Clearly a dude is in charge of the dress code, because a month ago, the dress was “Cocktail”. “Casual Cocktail”, come on guys, it’s either “Casual” or “Cocktail” not both, and that is a HUGE difference for us gals!
One gal pal of mine said, who cares, better to be over dressed than under (agreed), and you love that dress – stick to the plan, and she is right. And I was, sticking to the plan that is, until yesterday – yes, Thursday. I woke up Thursday morning, uncertain of the plan. Let’s face it, at your High School Reunion you want to feel your best, and all the sudden I wasn’t feeling it for this dress.
Back in the closet, I pulled out a few favorites. My black Young Fabulous and Broke jumpsuit. Nope, too much Spanx required on that one – I need to be able to have a few glasses of wine and not feel like my stomach is exploding, from the pressure of my Spanx. Next, flare jeans, a sassy top, some bling and chic heels. No, I could end up being the only one in true “Casual Cocktail” – which to me = denim. Last, a Vince Camuto blue wide leg jumpsuit. It’s comfortable, I can wear a normal bra and shaper, no Spanx. I own all the accessories. This jumpsuit has been with me to a few cocktail parties, and we’ve had a great times together, with no wardrobe mishaps. I rushed it to the dry cleaner, begged for a 1 day turn around – done.
Outfit decided, I hit the nail salon. Engrossed in a People magazine article on the Pope, I didn’t realize I gave my gal the wrong polish for my toes, until she was layering on the top coat, whoops – well, I like it enough:

I thought I had handed her:

I got my nail color right though,

Now, I just need to remember to wear dish gloves, so my polish doesn’t chip off, by tomorrow evening. With a blowout scheduled for tomorrow, I’ll be off to the reunion. Pop back next week, and see if I divert from the plan. I’ll be sure to share all the reunion details, on my next post!
After my post on wraps, earlier this week, HERE, Renee Gibeau, owner/buyer of Papillon Los Altos, sent me a photo of this fabulous poncho type wrap by Hazel, that had just arrived in her store, HERE.
I immediately threw it up onto my AskSuzanneBell Facebook page, but knowing not all of you would catch it there, after getting my mani/pedi, I popped by Papillon to check this fab piece out in person. Dressed in my yoga get-up, I asked Renee to model it for you all, as to not kill the look, if I threw it on over my lime green workout tank and flip flops.
Thanks Renee!
What’s not to love? It’s so California Chic – I love it! You can find it at Papillon Los Altos or check it out online, HERE. Mention AskSuzanneBell and Renee will give you 15% off this gorgeous piece. New to Papillon? You can read all about Renee, and her fabulous boutique in this ASB post, HERE.
After Papillon, another window caught my eye, at Gitane, another local boutique.
On the front table display were two beautiful wraps:
This plaid is beautiful in person – a black and white with a touch of dark green.
No, I would not style this up with my capri yoga pants…
Both wraps are by LoveStitch and are priced at $88.00 | Gitane Los Altos
For more wraps and ponchos, check out this post, from earlier this week, on AskSuzanneBell, HERE .
More Weekend Happenings
Target has collaborated with Adam Lippes ,and it’s all about plaid!
In stores and online September 27th, here are a few of my favorites via the Lookbook:
I’m loving this red poncho, and all the checks and plaids,
and check out the cute accessories for the pooch!
Read more about this fab collab, at Target.com, HERE.
Looking to update your wardrobe for less?
Check out these fab finds, found at my local Target HERE

Love Anthropologie?
Sale on sale with 30% off already reduced clearance items, now that’s pretty awesome!
This arrived on my porch yesterday,
Curious? Pop back next week, I’ll be sharing what’s inside!
Questions or comments? I’d love to hear, drop ’em down below!
Hope you all have a fabulous weekend!
XOXO
Suzanne
reunion angst… we have all been there …casual cocktail sounds like you are drinking an appletini in your overalls…or maybe throwing on a wrap over yourself and your jumpsuit…have fun and enjoy the memories you have made over 30 years!!!
Haha! I’m liking the overall idea with the appletini – casual cocktail at it’s best! I am looking forward to it! Our reunion committee did an amazing job tracking everyone down over the past year and have planned a fun evening for everyone! Stay tuned, I’m sure there will be some fun stories to share! xx
OMG! Hey Fasion Adviser and Trendsetter! I will hop to Papillon and Target. What a fabulous collection and great prices?! For some reason I have been always timid about trying plaid. I’m sure I can find my favorite item at either one or both! Thank you, Suzanne!
Hey Masako! Thanks for stopping by! Plaids are very personal, in my opinion. Kinda like stripes, you have to find a pattern you love in colors that work with what is in your closet. What I do know, is there will be loads of options available this season! I did pick up a few Adam Lippes pieces on Sunday. I will be sure to share them, when they arrive! XO