Wearing the Best Outfit for a Brunch, Garden Party or Black Tie Event

For an 11:30 am. brunch, any parties planned this early in the day will be more casual. You don't want to look flashy for a morning event, so you'll want to keep colors neutral.

A simple suit in rose or beige is a good choice.

Finishing touches for this can be: Open-toe shoes or city sandals (tailored sandals with a wide band across the front) in a light color. Wear nude or sheer hose and simple pearl or gold jewelry.

For an outdoor garden party held in the late afternoon, wear something less structured and more romantic.

Go for soft floral prints and layered sheer dresses (with opaque underpinnings). Or choose a linen pantsuit or modest sundress.

Colors should be light and natural looking (Deep-toned colors can look harsh in a farden setting).

Shoes with a higher heel or wedge rather than the usual slender heels (you don't want to sink in the grass) will cap off this look.

An evening black tie affair is the one time all-out glamour is acceptable.

Short or long dresses or cocktail suits are good, as well as pantsuits (with a beaded or embroidered jacket).

If you're attending an evening wedding, don't wear anything too fancy, like a ball gown (you'll upstage the bride!). And don't wear white!

For added elegance, wear fancy hose and high heels. Carry a small jeweled handbag. And wear some nice jewelry!

The Best Face Powder for You (to Wear to the Brunch, Garden Party or Black Tie Event)

Powder is an absolute "must" for setting foundation and concealer. Here's how each one works and what it does:

Bronzing-It's the easiest way to get a golden glow to your skin. It's light and can be applied over foundation.

For best results, go no more than two shades darker than your natural coloring. Apply with a large brush. Use extra on cheeks, nose, forehead and chin.

Oil-blotting papers are thin tissue sheets coated with powder. They're great for soaking up oil. They'll leave your skin with a light matte finish.

Loose powder-gives a sheer finish. It can be used instead of foundation to lightly even out skin tone. Apply with a brush for lighter coverage or a puff for greater coverage.

Pressed powder travels better than loose. Try an oil-free formula if you skin's oily or acne-prone, or one with a moisturizer if you're worried about dryness.

For a light look, loosen lightly with a brush, then dust on.

For thicker coverage, apply with a puff or sponge.