The Sunday Mail
Tendai Mbirimi
Overdressing or under-dressing for a function can leave you feeling awkward.
I will not mention the function and names of celebrities who caused waves with their off dress code in recent times; but next time I will be explicit.
Being overdressed or under-dressed can be an eyesore to the point of spoiling the fun. Dressing can be so noisy and obstructive instead of mesmerising.
It is not bad to be tip-toeing in those high heels as the best lady or mother of the bride, but it is something else when one struggles to walk in them — staggering and wobbling from side to side like a duck, a cosmetologicaly messed up face completing the clutter.
It is better to be simple and feeling comfortable than to be wrapped in a tightly-fitted mini-dress which you have to tug down to cover the essentials.
Avoid experimenting with clothing or make-up you have never worn before when going for a wedding or function where you are an esteemed guest.
With due respect to the fact that every man and woman has personal reasons for choosing certain attire, public dressing should be modest and tasteful.
Don’t dress to merely look different or to create a “wow” factor, or to outclass rivals, lest you shame yourself.
As for the specific questions of over and under-dressing, below are some of the perceptions of some celebrated personalities.
Laura: “I wear dresses on casual Fridays, heels to the grocery store, statement necklaces for dinner. I’m over-dressed all the time. It makes me feel self-conscious and self-absorbed. It is also related to my unabashed love of clothing and style. I have absolutely no problem with people who dress down, but my personal preference is to dress up always. It delights me to see others who choose to dress up, regardless of context.”
Cindy: “I prefer to have some sense of the level of formality before attending an event, meeting, or gathering. Although I respect the right to choice, I acknowledge that fashion is social, clothing choices project information about ourselves, and that dressing broadcasts self-respect outwardly to the observing world.
“Additionally being over or under-dressed can attract negative attention in certain circles, creating uncomfortable social situations. Some people could care less about making waves, but personally, I err on the side of conformity of dress. When moving among strangers, I prefer to rely on my intelligence and personality to make waves for me.”
Barbra: “Although certain situations ambush us, we can generally guess which outfits will make us appear over or under-dressed. Taffeta dresses will look out of place at business meetings; sweatpants will seem odd at weddings. If you end up over or under-dressed for any reason at all, my only advice is to own it. If you are intentionally dressing outside the social norm, own it.
“Be confident and bold, facetious and carefree; some may end up admiring your strength. If you accidentally dress outside the social norm, own it too. Acting embarrassed and ashamed will simply prevent you from enjoying yourself, being yourself, and connecting with people who accept you no matter what you are wearing.”
What will you do when you happen to be over or under-dressed, or dressing outside the vibe?
Do you end up feeling out of place and apologise or you will feel bold and own it?
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