Friday, May 22, 2015

The Dos and Don'ts of Las Vegas Fashion

The Dos and Don'ts of Las Vegas Fashion:

Photo: iStockphoto
Photo: iStockphoto
Las Vegas brings out people’s wild sides. It’s why the phrase, "What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas" is so ubiquitous. And when it comes to fashion, the uninhibited, over-the-top glitz of this desert paradise can often translate into some wacky choices. But once your crazy adventures on The Strip are over, you don't want to look back at photos and think, "Who let me wear that?"

GIF: "The Hangover"/Warner Bros.

So to prevent the sartorial equivalent of "The Hangover," here are the do’s and don’ts of dressing, primping and shopping in Las Vegas this summer.

Nightclubs

Don’t: Look like everyone else

The Las Vegas nightclub scene is legendary and everyone dons their bottle-popping best for a night out. Yet somehow we all end up in the same dress. You know the one: tight, short and sometimes *shudders* sequined. This old reliable will be hard to put down, but save it for New Year's Eve — the Vegas party gods want you to stand out from the crowd.

Do: Wear something that you can move in

With each hotel resort offering their own lavish party spaces, you and your crew will be in for a long night of dancing and strutting down The Strip. Do you really want to be falling out of your dress or tripping over your heels all night? Your eveningwear should be able to keep up with you. I’ve been partial to well-tailored jumpsuits that look chic, show off your shape but are comfortable. Plus, it’s the perfect outfit to wear from a show to dinner and onto the dance floor.

Beauty

Don’t: Go contour/eye-shadow crazy

The Kardashians have built their careers off of Las Vegas club appearances, but that’s no excuse to overdose on highlighter and bronzer. The Kardashian Krew’s preferred makeup style has its merits but it can be tricky to master and you probably are going to sweat it all off anyway. The same can be said for heavy eye makeup. A smokey or super rich color may seem like the perfect dramatic look to match the intensity of Vegas, but wearing it (especially in the daytime) makes you look like the next act in a Cabaret.

Do: Slather on the sun screen

We interrupt your glamorous, carefree vacation for a little reminder that you are in the desert. According to LasVegas.com, the city gets over 300 days of sun each year. That means that your trip will most likely be filled with lots of sunshine. It sounds like the dream vacation but the desert sun can be brutal, especially in the summer months. You may be ready to get your tan on alongside some of Vegas's renowned hotel pools, but even a short swim without SPF could result in a serious burn, that unfortunately won't be one of those things that stays in Vegas.

Concerts & Shows

Don’t: Dress like you’re going to a nightclub

It’s clear that Las Vegas is a destination for one-of-a-kind shows. The numerous concerts and other entertainment events that happen year-round provide visitors and locals alike with unforgettable experiences. That being said, most of the daytime shows are low-key for audience members. While the dress code for night time shows is slightly more dressed up, you can leave the elaborate outfits to the performers.

Do: Show off with a statement accessory 

Casual doesn't have to mean boring. Concerts and shows are the perfect opportunity to trot out that flashy statement accessory you've been dying to show off. An elaborate necklace, bold earrings or a kitschy clutch are all great ways to make a simple outfit pop.

Footwear

Don’t: Walk around all day in heels

Did you know that the Las Vegas Strip is 4.2 miles? That’s a long walk in high heels. You’ll be doing a lot of sightseeing, so give your feet a break and save the stilettos for your night out on the town. If you just can't live without them, opt for a low-heeled version or a block heel that gives support.

Do: Pack your sneakers

As I mentioned, you’ll be doing a lot of walking — not only down the Strip but around downtown and even inside the massive hotel resorts. Take advantage of the "athleisure" trend and rock your most fashionable sneakers while out and about. Your feet will thank you while you dance the night away.

Shopping

Don’t: Only shop on The Strip

Although massive, there's more to shopping in Vegas than The Strip. Don't get us wrong — with everything from Forever21 to Gucci there is something for everyone. However, if you're a real shopping aficionado, you'll want to see all your options. That includes Las Vegas's growing local retail scene. Just like New York and LA, Las Vegas has it's own bustling world of up-and-coming fashion that's worth exploring. Take home a stylish souvenir from your travels but don't be afraid to explore stores off The Strip.

Do: Browse the downtown Container Park

This is where you'll find that unique souvenir. The Container Park is an open-air space made of repurposed shipping containers where you'll find indie boutiques, restaurants and even an entertainment area for live performances. It’s a one-of-a-kind Las Vegas experience and a welcome getaway from your usual shopping routine.

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