If you are one of the lucky Vancouverites who managed to score an invite to this Thursday’s epic pop-up picnic party (location is a secret until about 30 minutes prior), you’re likely well aware of the suggested policy and etiquette guidelines Diner En Blanc-goers must adhere to. It’s all about the simple elegance of summer whites – right down to the napkins, tablecloth and dining attire.
That said, if you’re like us, you’re probably fretting a bit as to what exactly to wear to this globally recognized event that began in Paris more than 20 years ago by Francois Pasquier.
We sourced some top tips and spots to shop via noteworthy YVR stylista Crystal Carson, who offered up her top-notch suggestions (and go-to boutiques) to help our Notable readers heading to the soiree later this week.
First and foremost on Carson’s list: all party-goers must wear white (that means no cream, ivory or off-white allowed and no baseball caps, sport-style shoes or other colours permitted).
For her:
Think flowy white dresses, skirts and blouses, accessorizing with a floppy white hat, sunglasses, beads, gloves, scarves and even white-hued wigs (check out the Party Bazaar or Dressew for inspiration)
Shop at local spots such as Leone, Ishara, Violet Boutique, LynnSteven. We also spotted some great sale items at Blubird and Brooks Brothers – if you opt to go upscale with a touch of preppy.
For him:
Bring on the crisp white shirt, bow-tie (because why not?) and fedora.
Always a go-to solution for class, Holt Renfrew and Harry Rosen carry a great selection of summer suits, shirts and linen offerings we think will have the guys looking their best. Go local and stop by BoysCo or Gastown’s Roden Gray or Nouvelle Nouvelle to find your Gatsby-crafted DEB look.
His and hers:
If you’re looking for something a little bit more unique and, shall we say, Gatsby-esque, Carson suggests popping by her favourite shop, Little Miss Vintage, or one of Vancouver’s many lightly-used stores to perfect your look.
Photo courtesy Navid Baraty
