Dallas Contemporary Gala: Styling Directive

By Marissa Birdi, Personal Stylist

As a Personal Stylist, if I had to choose my favorite type of event to style, it would probably be art-centered events.

I’m drawn to how intentional every detail feels — from the artist curation to the atmosphere to the guest list itself. In this world where creativity, passion and personal expression are highly celebrated, the thought-provoking culture asks patrons to step out of the norm, push traditional styling ideas, and rely heavily on art-inspired pieces and total looks. 

So in honor of the Dallas Contemporary Gala this September, here is your definitive guide to keeping 1950’s Latin American Revival central to your evening look.

Women’s 

  • Bold & Vibrant: Build a colorful, vibrant palette inspired by the streets of Cartagena using this soft yet structural dress by Khaite. In an art-centric environment, your look should feature a conversation starter—and that’s exactly where this playful, kiwi-green Saint Laurent bag shines.

  • Elegant & Graphic: Dial into your accessories; they provide the perfect punchline to thematic dressing. This elegantly draped, navy dress by Bolivian Weise Atelier becomes instant party-wear when paired with a sky-high, zig-zag patterned Missoni platform.

  • Monochromatic Florals: Extract your styling palette directly from a print, just like this ultra-feminine hydrangea dress from Carolina Herrera. Accessorize using the rich pink and purple tones pulled from the fabric, then repeat the botanical motif with a structural Gianvito Rossi heel and an Annabel Chan statement ring.

Men’s

  • Separates & Contrast: Don’t hesitate to mix and match your suiting. Pairing a dark jacket with a lighter trouser creates a balanced, modern contrast on classic menswear, as styled here by Brunello Cucinelli. Tie it all together with a striking Christian Louboutin shoe to lean into the evening's artistic vibe.

  • Breathable, Earthy Fabrics: Embrace linen and natural yarns in rich, earthy tones. Dallas in September is famously warm, so give yourself some breathing room with tropical-weight fabrics, like this suit from Brunello Cucinelli. To elevate the look for a gala, add this patterned shoe to effortlessly transport the ensemble to 1950s Latin America.

  • Bold Color Theory: Give yourself permission to embrace bold color with this show-stopping magenta suit, designed by Colombian visionary Haider Ackermann for Tom Ford. Instead of reaching for the expected black dress shoe, anchor the palette with a deep burgundy option from Saint Laurent for a thoughtful, monochromatic finish.