During my stay at The Palace Hotel San Francisco I was invited to the most glamour-filled of evenings spent celebrating the official revealing of the hotel’s new modernized design. Press from around the world were flown in to experience the stunning transformation first hand, and oh boy were we wined and dined. The setting for the dinner took place in the famous Garden Court. I thought this crystal chandelier filled atrium was incredible by day (you must go at least to take a peek or instagram when in the city)–but it’s absolutely magical at night. The moody decor and live string quartet somehow made the large dinner event feel so much more intimate and romantic. If only my guy was there…
This such evening has inspired me to want to throw a few elegant and moody holiday dinner parties myself this season (I just gotta hurry up and get settled in our house!!)… and I thought I’d pass the inspiration along so as to hopefully excite you for any of your own upcoming themed soireés. Below are a few of my favorite details… and of course the look–I wore this suede shift dress. The low back made me feel rather racy for a night of city glamour.
Formal Event Quick Hair-Tip: The low-messy bun is my best friend. I actually have pretty decent hair days in San Francisco because it’s usually windy so my curls are blown around giving them a little extra volume and less of a “curled” look. By the end of the day though it’s not so cute. If I have an evening event I like to pull everything back into a low loose bun, pinning any extra fly aways. The real trick of this look is to pull your hair back without trying too hard to make it look like an actual undo. Think messier and zero to very little hairspray to give it a softer look.
Rich colored florals offset by white.
Obsessed with velvet decor at the moment. A black or navy settee is calling my name.
Mirrored table runner ups the drama level x 100 percent.
Bold contrast: white linens + black chairs.
The Look | IRO Dress (use code: GIVEME50 for 50% off) also here. Alice + Olivia Heels. Jennifer Fisher + Miansai Cuffs.
Photography by Arna Bee
