The area inside my front door right now looks like the counter of a UPS store. Stacked are boxes of items to return from failed e-commerce purchases. I find as a plus size person, it's much easier to shop online than in a store. So many more options and retailers with great return policies. Some of the purchases going back are dresses that didn't make the cut for the Junior League of Lexington Charity Horse Show this past week. It's one of the Junior League of Lexington‘s biggest fundraisers, and it's an event unlike anything else I've been part of. It's the world's largest outdoor saddlebred show. Even if you don't know anything about saddlebreds (and I admittedly don't, even after 9 years of watching these events), it's still a grand spectacle that's enjoyable for all. Proceeds from the show go to funding grants for local non-profits.
For the second year in a row, Steve handed out trophies in crazy heat in a tux. He really enjoys it, which baffles me. But I won't complain about him wanting to volunteer with me!
This is a unique fundraiser to attend as it's outside, and you're usually there for hours. I was on the hunt for a dress that was sleeveless and lightweight, not completely polyester, and had straps wide enough so I could wear a regular bra. This cotton/nylon dress from Lane Bryant (affiliate link) was a winner. My pools of sweat dried quickly and it was comfortable! If you're considering ordering it, I'd say it runs slightly large, and has a lot of give in the waist. The skirt is very full, so go by your bust and waist measurement when looking at the size chart. I whipstitched the sides underneath the arm hole before we left the house as it was gaping a bit. I didn't have time to get this in a smaller size, so it was an easy adjustment. I'll run it through the sewing machine after I wash it.
The next event that I need an outfit for is Misters for MS in Louisville, billed as “a tall, dark, and handsome fundraiser benefitting the Southeast Indiana Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. This year, it's July 26th at The Gramercy (620 South 3rd Street, Louisville) and is presented by Hilliard Lyons. Tickets are available for $65 each here. Sponsorships are also available and include eight runway seats; starting at $750.
No, I'm not going to bid on a bachelor – it's not that kind of event, and Steve probably wouldn't love it – it's bachelors presenting live auction items up for grabs. Anyone who has attended an event with me knows I love an auction.
This is a cause close to my heart as my mom died from Parkinson's Disease, which presents with similar symptoms to MS as they both affect the central nervous system. Both conditions can cause tremor, slurred speech, loss of muscle control, poor balance, numb or weak limbs, and hard to control movements. Shaky fingers, hands, lips, or limbs. When I moved my mom into a nursing home, her roommate had MS. There were so many similarities in their symptoms that I wondered if my mom actually had MS as well. I watched both of their conditions deteriorate, even though both were young (my mom was under 50 and I think her roommate was around the same age.) I can't really think about it much without getting upset. So instead, I'll funnel those thoughts into optimism for cures, and some auction action. I hope you'll consider joining me at this event!
As far as figuring out what to wear to something like this, I always go a few routes: 1) ask someone who has been before; 2) search for photos from previous years events; 3) ask friends you're going with what they're wearing – at least you'll all be on the same page!
My friend Debra Locker Griffin of Locker PR (who invited me to this event) let me know that orange is the MS Society's color, so that's where I started my hunt for an outfit. Here are some fun orange options to consider if you're looking for something similar. I may go with a different colored dress and a pop of orange in accessories, or maybe an orange dress (this one is still a favorite and in my closet) – haven't decided!
These are affiliate links. If you purchase something from these links, I will earn a small commission at no difference in price to you.
I've thought about doing more of these “what to wear” posts – would there be any interest there? For example, what to wear to a formal wedding, cocktail party, summer picnic, etc. I'm all ears for ideas, so let me know.
