I'm helping out with music for our Good Friday service, and when I asked what was appropriate to wear, they said "just dress normal church, but dark". "Normal church" is quite casual - dressed up jeans, I'd say, though I usually go a step above that.
I thought it might be a good opportunity to wear my black lace top, but I'm having troubles making it work. Suggestions?
#1 - #5 Black lace top over a variety of bottoms, with either a black shell underneath or a white long-sleeved tee underneath. Black trousers would also be an option, but #3 and #4 felt so dark that I was reluctant to make it even more black by taking away the white legs (which will have nude hose if I wear a skirt). My husbands comment was "It's not a funeral". on #3 and #4. He felt #2 was a bit more casual than I wanted, and preferred #1 to #5, but wouldn't say whether he actually liked anything (and usually he'll admit to liking something, so that means that he doesn't...)
#6-#7 A black dress with houndstooth jacket. I'm kinda thinking this is a better choice, but then I'd miss the opportunity to wear the lace top.
Fair warning: I have three events this weekend, and will probably be obsessing about what to wear to the other two also. Apologies in advance!
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18 Comments
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Oh, the bottoms are taupe trousers, white jeans, or a black flared skirt. The skirt is quite thick and heavy - and the top layer is eyelet. It feels almost goth to me....
amiable replied 11 years ago
Thanks in advance - I'm going to bed, so this is a post-n-run. :(
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I like 1 and 7 the best; 1 is a little more casual looking, and 7 a little dressier. It's good to have options!
Firecracker (Sharan) replied 11 years ago
I like the way you've amped up the outfit in 1 with the lace blouse; you look casual, cool, and confident. 7 is a more traditional look, very clean and modern. The dress fits you so nicely, and it goes beautifully with the jacket.
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I'd like to see the white jeans in #2 with the white T under the lace top as in #4.
DonnaF replied 11 years ago
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Are you going to on an elevated platform or chancel? I ask this, because I like the dress outfit best but --- I say this as an experienced singer and PW -- that platform means the audience can see a couple more inches of leg.
Beth Ann replied 11 years ago
I like the black and white, unless you under really lights with other people -- the high contrast will make the white "pop" on stage. That said, the lighting is probably more subdued on Good Friday.
What about the lace top with a trouser jean and a colored shoe?
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My favorite is 6-7. It's respectful but not too dark.
Joy replied 11 years ago
i just came back from Holy Thursday services and most were dressed up more than usual, meaning nice trousers and blouse rather than jeans.
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Long-time church musician/worship leader here...in Seattle now but formerly California -- both south and north, so I know your dilemma well. On the west coast almost anything goes at church as long as you are not exposing more than appropriate. I agree, it's hard when the dress code is not so obvious, especially for a Lenten service.
Sheila replied 11 years ago
I would stick with trousers as that's what our current church (a newly planted one) would find comfortable. So I vote #5, then #1. But the houndstooth jacket is very tasteful and if you want to wear is, I'm sure you will find many more occasions to wear the lovely black blouse.
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Caro in Oz replied 11 years ago
- # 6 - 7 for me too:)
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I like 5, 6 and 7 the best.
replied 11 years ago
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7 is my favourite Amy. It's streamlined and very flattering. Nice length on the dress. The lace blouse is very pretty but I have to ask if it is a bit big. It's is looking that way in the photos. I do think I prefer the blouse tucked as it creates more definition. Happy Easter:)
Deborah replied 11 years ago
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WIll you be helping out behind the scenes or in front of everyone? If you are behind the scenes and pants are OK, I like #2. If you will be in front of others, I like #6 and #7, as it's a bit dressier for a Good Friday service at church.
Karie replied 11 years ago
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You are all so kind - thank you for your input.
amiable replied 11 years ago
Deborah - I can't get anything past you :) You're correct, the lace blouse is too big. I was choosing to think of it as "slouchy" or a bit "oversized" instead of outright too big. But the fabric is stiffer than necessary to flow right for slouchy or oversized. On to the mending pile it goes. (I think I'll be able to take it in a bit without it showing... we'll see)
That leaves #6 and #7.
Beth Ann has a good point about elevation and lighting. I'll be elevated, but not lighted. I'll be standing, and my arms will be up (I'm playing the flute). So the dress is probably a bit short - even with black shorts under (tap pants, I think they're called). I have a black tube-dress (worn to church last Sunday) that's midi-length. I'll wear it instead.
Thank you for your help!
(Now to decide what to wear for Easter morning itself, where I'll be elevated, lighted and sitting with my knees toward the audience (playing keyboard) ... I suspect I'll post ideas and suggestions today or tomorrow to get your help)
Thank you so much. -
Flute! How wonderful! I'm sure you'll add much to the worship service, Amy!
Beth Ann replied 11 years ago
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Changed my mind when I looked in my closet for last Sunday's dress. I'm going to wear this instead:
amiable replied 11 years ago
http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....ight-heels
(With PPL pants and different shoes)
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I think you've made a very good choice with the midi-dress. You know, in a way it is a funeral. For Easter morning, be bright and joyful! :)
ruthe replied 11 years ago
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I haven't read the other comments and may be too late, but I favor #1 or #7. Both sedate, dark and classic. And yes, Good Friday is a funeral.
cjh replied 11 years ago
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That last picture you posted is just the ticket!
ruthe replied 11 years ago
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I think the outfit you picked in the end will be very suitable - but I hope you do take the opportunity to wear the 6/7 picture some time somewhere son!
anne replied 11 years ago
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Amy the outfit you have chosen is perfect. I love to see a bit of colour on the platform and this outfit is appropriate, great colours but not all distracting. Have a wonderful service. I'm getting ready for bed now and trying to work out what to wear to our Sunday morning service:)
Deborah replied 11 years ago