Style

What To Wear: 21st Birthday

Q. Hi, Jordan!

My 21st birthday is coming up in June (so excited!) and I’m having trouble deciding what to wear. My birthday plan involves a long night of bar-hopping…but I’m extremely clumsy [even] when I’m sober; I don’t want to be that girl who ends up tripping down the stairs and flashing the entire crowd.

Maybe dressy shorts if there is such a thing? It will be a long night so being able to move around and be comfortable would be nice. Thanks so much!

– Abbey

A. Happy birthday!

Dressy shorts aren’t just “a” thing…they are “THE” thing. As in my thing, and (I would argue) your thing for this particular event.

 

 

 

Here’s what I would suggest: a look that’s equal parts sexy and sleek, with leather (or faux leather) shorts (they’re all over stores right now, but I think these Free People ones are cute and on sale), a relaxed-fit blouse in a neutral color, and a blazer that adds color and sophistication. Another alternative is sequin shorts, but in that case I’d tone down the whole to-do with a casual top like a grey t-shirt (still wear heels, though).

Because it’s your birthday, I’m going to insist that you include at least one animal-print piece, and I strongly suggest that you consider leopard pumps, because they’re amazing. But remember to also tote a pair of fold-up black flats (Cityslips makes nice ones) for later on, when leopard heels become less “stylish and adorable” and more “things that will maybe result in a cataclysmic and birthday-destroying tumble.”

Have fun! And be safe. (Sorry, am mom now and must say things like that.)

x

J

P.S. I just realized that the graphic I chose for the image up there has a fairly major typo. In any case, happy birhtday.

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