Monica Sandu '24
Co-Executive Editor
It’s early February, and the fashion event of the Law School year is rapidly approaching. With Barrister’s Ball on the horizon, I found myself staring into my closet for what to wear this year. I could choose between my maid of honor gown from my sister’s wedding a few years ago, the suit I wore to OGI, or (worst of all) the dress I wore to Barrister’s last year. What’s a fashion-starved law student to do?
Thus began the panic for the perfect outfit. When I first began thinking about this article, I envisioned myself venturing through little shops and finding gems that were both stylish and affordable. I desperately wanted this to be more than just saying “shop online,” but my efforts appeared thwarted at every turn. It’s hard to find a store in Charlottesville that carries clothing elegant enough for Barrister’s, affordable enough for a law student, and with enough variety to accommodate a wide range of styles and preferences. So, rather than this being a guide on where to look, here are some tips and tricks on how to choose the right outfit for you, whether that’s in a brick-and-mortar store, through the clothing swap at the Law School, or online.[1]
Though often overlooked, the most important step in formalwear shopping, especially online shopping, is having accurate measurements. There is no such thing as true standard sizing, and formalwear sizes often differ from your typical clothing sizes. Furthermore, the same number will differ across brands, and even across styles, within the same brand. A few good measurements to start with are the chest or bust, waist, hips, leg length, and shoulders. You can also measure your arm length if you plan to wear long sleeves. Hold the tape measure such that it sits comfortably around your body, not so loose that it cannot stay up but also not as tight as it can go. Formalwear fabric often has very little give, so make sure that you would be comfortable wearing something that sits as the tape measure does. Round up to the nearest half inch. If you don’t have a tape measure, you can use a length of string, ribbon, or floss and then find your measurements against a ruler. When in doubt, size up. It’s easier to fix a loose fit with safety pins than it is to spend the night horribly uncomfortable in something too tight. Reference the manufacturer’s size chart and online reviews.
The next step is to simply be aware of your plans for the night. Will you be hitting the dance floor for every song? Planning to both pre-game and post-game? Or do you just want to show up for some nice pictures and an evening out with friends? No matter what you choose, make sure that your outfit is one that you feel comfortable in the whole night. If you want to wear high heels, for example, I would recommend bringing a spare pair of flats as well. Your feet will be thanking you later. I would also recommend avoiding clutch purses unless you’re alright with either leaving them unattended on a table or having to hold them the entire evening.[2] Try to break in your new shoes a few days before the big night; otherwise, they will almost certainly pinch and cause some unpleasant blisters. Carry band-aids and tissues with you in case of emergency. It also wouldn’t hurt to have some extra hair ties and anything else you might want to use to freshen up. And remember to bring a sweater! It’s cold out there.
Somebody with more knowledge about fashion than me could probably tell you all about choosing the right colors and styles, but my philosophy simply says that if you like it, wear it.[3] Channel your inner Marie Kondo. What makes something the “right outfit” is if it makes you happy.[4] Barrister’s is a time to treat yourself and live it up in all your finery. No matter what you wear, wear it with confidence and have fun! In the immortal words of ANNIE the Musical, “You’re never fully dressed without a smile!”
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ms7mn@virginia.edu
[1] When ordering online, be sure to check the expected delivery dates. Amazon often lists things as “Prime eligible,” but then you only get Prime delivery on certain colors or styles. There may also be additional delivery fees for certain dates.
[2] One advantage of bringing a large bag with you is that you can carry home a lot more of the free firm merchandise offered at Barrister’s.
[3] I wore a bright lime green dress to my Junior prom. Live your dreams.
[4] And if it falls within the limits of the venue’s dress code.