Shop Talk is written by OM senior editor Dayanti Karunaratne and Sarah Fischer, OM account executive and fashion maven.
A quick Google search of “white party” brings up many different images — a fundraiser for HIV/AIDS, a swingers night, and many princess-themed birthdays. But the Ottawa’s Snowsuit Fund is out to make sure that, if you’re living in Ottawa, there’s only one event that comes to mind.
To avoid trademark infringement embrace our city’s bilingual culture, they’re calling it the Bash en Blanc, and they’re making clear the target demographic: young, stylish people who like to live it up (and donate to charities, of course). On Friday, June 21, the Conference Centre at Rideau and Colonel By will be transformed into a luxe party zone, with DJs, live music, beverage sampling, bottle service, and a fashion show that will set the tone for a sultry night of socializing.
The white fashion show ties it all back to the Snowsuit Fund — as does the white theme. It’s a trendy theme, as white has remained a trendy colour this summer — and wearing crisp whites always means making a statement.
But what kind of statement? What does one wear to the first white party in Ottawa?
We asked Bash en Blanc sponsor Bayshore Shopping Centre to put together some looks. Angie Russell, marketing director at Bayshore, says the versatility of white means that it lends itself to strong shapes, textures, and embellishment. The studded wedges become more powerful; the details in the perforated leather bag are brought into focus.
Clearly, it’s not as dressy as the Snowsuit Fun gala.
Karen Wood of event partner Knock On Wood Communications describes the dress code as “stylishly relaxed” but still “dress to impress.”
She adds that guests can dress in head-to-toe white, or create a white-and-black outfit.
“It’s a chic and sophisticated colour and this will be a chic and sophisticated event,” says Karen.
Most of all, guests should be comfortable enough to hit the dance floor!
Friday, June 21. 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. www.snowsuitfund.com