What to Wear to Hats Off: Your Avant-Garde(n) Style Guide
The 20th Annual Hats Off Luncheon is almost here. And this year, we’re inviting you to have a little fun with your fashion.
Our Avant-Garde(n) theme is where garden-party style meets the unexpected: bold colors, fabulous florals, sculptural silhouettes, statement accessories and, of course, a hat worth tipping.
But here’s the most important thing to know: Avant-Garde(n) is inspiration, not a dress code. Whether you go all in or simply add one unexpected detail to a favorite luncheon look, there’s plenty of room to make the theme your own.
Start with the Garden
Florals are an easy place to begin. But think beyond the classic floral dress. Try oversized botanical prints, dimensional flowers, leafy greens, romantic ruffles or colors pulled straight from The Women’s Committee Garden in full bloom.
Pink, poppy red, vivid green, violet, yellow or unexpected color combinations all feel right at home in the Avant-Garde(n). Prefer something quieter? A beautiful neutral paired with a dramatic floral accessory works just as well.
Turn Up the Volume
This is the year to wear the thing that usually makes me wonder, “Is this too much?”
A dramatic sleeve. A sculptural skirt. That fabulous pair of shoes. An unexpected print. Metallics and sequins at noon. Feathers. Fringe. Tulle. A statement necklace that you haven’t had quite the right occasion for yet.
Step into the Avant-Garde(n) where you have permission to be a little more playful.
You don’t need an entirely unconventional outfit either. One standout piece can truly transform.
And Then There are the Hats. . .
It wouldn’t be the Hats Off Luncheon without them.
This year’s theme opens the door to everything from the classic wide-brimmed garden-party hats to fascinators, oversized flowers, architectural shapes and wonderfully whimsical creations.
Think of your hat as the exclamation point to your outfit. Match it perfectly. Or let it be the one element that completely surprises us.
Yes, Pants Absolutely Work
A dress is far from your only option.
A brightly colored suit, wide-leg trousers, a dramatic blouse, a floral jacket or a chick match set can be every bit as luncheon ready. Menswear can get in on the theme too with color, pattern, botanical prints, interesting tailoring, statement shoes or even a strategically placed brooch.
The goal isn’t to dress like everyone else. It’s a way to interpret Avant-Garde(n) and celebrate our 20th Annual Hats Off Luncheon in a way that feels like you.
Don’t Forget Where We’ll Be
The Hats Off Luncheon takes place outdoors at the John G. and Phyllis W. Smale Riverfront Park, so style accordingly. Consider the weather, choose shoes that will let you comfortably enjoy the park (and your walk across the Great Lawn to find your table) and remember that October in Cincinnati can occasionally have an idea of its own.
Fashion-forward and able to walk through the park? That’s the sweet spot for the Avant-Garde(n).
Still Wondering What to Wear?
We’ve been gathering plenty of inspiration over the last two decades, from colorful garden-party looks to delightfully over-the-top accessories.
Visit our Avant-Garde(n) Pinterest board for more ideas.
Save your favorites, raid your closet, call your most fashionable friend and start planning.
There are no wrong answers! Just one question to ask: How will you step into the Avant-Garde(n)?