The real question...What do I wear?

It's the first comment the boss's boss makes in the meeting room when an event is initially green lit - Everyone start working out we'll be in LA in a month! or My shopper can give you tips on what to wear, this event is going to be very mojo and it's downtown of course. Of course. Why wouldn't it be?

The boss's boss is the creative executive of the company. She's a creative director who was restructured to the head of marketing when the company adjusted a few years ago. She's just as big picture as the boss. But the one thing she is serious about is what she's wearing. Which means we need to be serious about what we're wearing. But here's the difference:

The boss and the boss's boss:
*Arrives 20 minutes after the event starts
*Schedules their hair and make-up appointment for the morning of the event
*Sits in VIP all night
*Come with a fab Gucci clutch
*Makes a six digit salary

My Team:
*We've been there for 12 hours setting up
*We hope for 10 minutes to change but usually get 5
*We're running around during the event
*We're juggling a million things in our hands and hope that our subway card won't be stolen by the nights end
*We make enough to survive in NYC if we expense dinner three nights a week (usually not a problem)

So what happens after this meeting. Well, usually the newest staff member bombards me and frantically exclaims: What am I going to wear? or I can't afford a new Mark Jacobs' outfit! (usually the designer the boss's boss recommends to the staff). This is no laughing matter. But I laugh anyway because I can.

Then I quickly go through the prepared PowerPoint I have with the following tips -take notice all of you young ladies new to events this may one day save you:

Shoes:

1. If you're setting up wear sneakers during the day. If isn't possible (your supervisor considers it a faux paux) my favorite option are basic flats. I recommend: Me Too Ballet Flats. You don't have to break them in and they are the most comfortable pair of shoes I have ever owned. Get them in black, of course.
2. If you're in charge or want to one day be in charge you need to wear heels. I know this sounds counter productive but heels mean power for a woman. Try to stick to heels that are 2-3 inches high and never purchase heels the day before the event (I made this deadly mistake and had the worst wedding feet in history).
• Also never purchase heels that clickity clack. While you might feel powerful walking down the halls, everyone will avoid you like the black plague (and know where you are at every second of the event).
3. Whatever type of heel you wear, you must (and I say MUST) use Apara Heel Appeal. These silicone inserts are worth the cost of the entire event. No blisters, no cuts, nothing! You're feet will thank you. You will thank me. We will all be happy.
   

The Outfit:

1. If you're working as a PA and will be anywhere near the stage - assume you have to wear black. Why? Black is the one color that allow you to blend in the background, especially if this is being filmed live. Also wear black pants.
   
• Note: We all know that PAs are the second lowest form of life at an event (just above office intern). It's okay. It's how we all start. The key is to be realistic about your job description at the event. Expect squatting, running, and carrying large items (sounds a little like boot camp).
  
2. If you're working the red carpet you are probably required to wear black. Ask. If you are required to wear black do it with style. Wear a dress and fab heels! Skip the purse or clutch (you need your hands to guide talent and beckon to reporters).
   
3. Wear black only if you have to (point 1 and 2) and in desperate situations (point 5). If you have any sense of style color will make you stand out - in a good way. Don't over do it, but remember that color is bold, confident, and young. Embrace the Alpha in you and make a statement.
   
4. A great fitted suit is always a no fail, but if the event is cutting edge then don't do this outfit unless you have a sexy camisole.
   
• Note: This should only be if you're in charge of some aspect of the event. Any small piece. If you're not (and you're not in the know) then you'll look like a prentiticious prick and get stuck with the worst jobs at the event.
  
5. If all else fails and you have to grab an outfit from your closet the day of always have a safety outfit: black pants, black button down shirt or camisole top, dynamic necklace or earrings but not both, and those flats I recommended. No fail. Have this outfit on hand and use only in case of emergency. In this case you will blend into the background (much like a PA).
   
6. Important things to keep in mind:
1. Ask ahead if you're going to have a walkie talkie during the event. You will need to clip this somewhere. Your options:
   
1. A belt: either around your hips with a skirt or a belted dress (make sure the belt is strong enough)
2. Pants or a skirt that isn't made from flimsy material (sagging is not mojo)
   
3. A clipboard or binder that you will need to carry all night. If this is the case - dress away!
   
2. Ask ahead if there will be a safe place to store your stuff. Ultimately if your subway card and wallet get stolen - you suffer the consequences. Try to bring as little as possible to the event.
   

Hair and Make-up:

1. Make-up: Eyes Eyes Eyes. Everywhere else, less is more. Lipstick always keep neutral - very often you won't have time to touch up.
   
2. Hair: Loose hair is dynamic and hair pulled back is a statement. You can go either way it depends on the neckline of your outfit and your type of hair. Trust your gut.
   

These are the basics. Remember them and add to them as you go. Good luck!