Fashion-savvy Greenwich women have long made Richards their go-to choice for chic, on-trend designs. We consulted owner Scott Mitchell about the do’s and don’ts of perfect cocktail style.
359 Greenwich Ave., 203-622-0551, richards.mitchellstores.com
DRESS FOR THE OCCASION
“Find out where the party is being held. Private home, country club, formal restaurant? You don’t want to be over or underdressed,” he says. “It’s always safer to err on the side of being a little bit dressier than too casual.” The same applies for men. “There’s nothing worse than being at a party where the women are in really nice dresses and the guys are in polo shirts.”
SHOES
Make sure they augment your outfit. “You wouldn’t wear 90mm Jimmy Choos with a Lilly Pulitzer dress.”
JEWELRY
“If you are wearing a dressy dress and sparkly shoes, don’t wear casual jewelry.” Keep it simple: “If the neckline is awesome, go for a necklace and earrings. If the neckline is hard, wear a bracelet and earrings.”
HANDBAGS
“When the occasion calls for Vineyard Vines or Lilly Pulitzer, leave the Judith Leiber minaudière at home.”
GO WITH COLOR
LBD’s are always a safe option, but why not throw some color into the mix? Pink, light pink, navy. “Navy looks great
on everybody,” he says.
THINK SEPARATES
“A skirt and top or trousers, especially if a capri. Jumpsuits are fashionable, though they tend to be dressier.”