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Picking The Right Dress For The Detroit Auto Show Charity Preview

By Raquel Parks
@MetroDivaPages

It is that time of the year again where the automotive industry inspires glamorous fashion to celebrate the latest in automobile innovation while supporting many charitable causes. The Charity Preview is only days away but there is still enough time to prep a look that is fabulous and perfect for the exclusive, black-tie event. Here are a few tips for dressing for the big event:

1) Be conscious of the weather. Michigan weather could prompt snow showers or a cold and rainy night. Either way, be prepared. The worst thing is to freeze or slip in formal wear.

It's best to have a primary and a back up outfit choice for whatever the weather brings. Or it may be easier and more sensible, to accessorize the outfit differently with less or more layers to accommodate for the evening.

2) Consider what is functional and what looks good. Black-tie affairs will traditionally call for a floor-length gown. However, a short formal dress can also work if it is styled just right. The Charity Preview requires a lot of walking therefore it's best to pick a dress that feels light and that is easy to move in.

Dresses made of mesh, satin, and other light fabrics are great choices for the evening because they are stunning and allow for plenty of comfort and movement. If in doubt, make sure to try the dress on and do a full walk in it before making a final decision.

That will be the true test. In addition, do not be afraid to choose dresses with bold colors and eye-catching embellishments. The dress should be classy but not boring.

3) Accessories are everything. Glitzy jewelry is essential for this event. Chandelier earrings, diamond cuff bracelets, and statement necklaces are sure to make any ensemble pop. It is equally important to have a showing-stopping pair of shoes and an appealing evening bag.

The shoes should be comfortable in some sense for the endless, walking and they should have some attitude to them. For an evening bag, a clutch can eliminate any fuss. A clutch with a wristlet is ideal because it allows for a secure grasp and takes the worry out of constantly have to have a purse in your hand. A small bag with a long, discreet shoulder is also a great option for the night.

Lastly, do not forget to pick up a shawl or wrap. It comes in handy for a cool or very cold night. The shawl or wrap should offer coverage but still be light when carried across the arm. On the night of the event, it may not even be required but it's always best to have a choice.

4) Most of all, have fun and take plenty of pictures! The Charity Preview only comes once a year and it's meant to be celebrated. The 2016 Charity Preview will take place this Friday, June 15th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Enjoy and embrace the glam!

Raquel is a Michigan native with a Bachelors in Journalism from the University of Michigan. She loves fashion and writing about life's everyday stories. She has written for various local publications that include Dearborn Press & Guide and Detroit Fashion Pages. Raquel also writes for her own local events blog, Metro Diva Pages.

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