Well, it really isn't an emergency b/c I still have time but..... <BR> <BR>we are spending x-mas at a hotel in england--not London but up north. i don't want to be over-dressed but, as this is a big trip for my husband and myself, i do want to take advantage of dressing like a soap opera star....if you know what i mean...a bit more flashy than my regular joe sort of life allows. <BR> <BR>so, i have put together an outfit that consists of black pants that look like a skirt (legs cut wide with panels of extra material that hang over front and back and move when i do) and a black jacket-like top that has some crystal-like stones sewn in so it sparkles--but it isn't loud (even by my farm girl midwestern standards) that has, get this, a v-neck collar with a feather boa buttoned around that can be removed. Again, the collar is not over the top and it feels great next to my skin--so warm. <BR> <BR>All in all, if we were going to be in London, I wouldn't feel uncomfortable going down to the hotel dining room at all in this outfit (perhaps I should but it fits my imagination of what would be seen in a bigger city social scene) And, I do plan on wearing this when in London to the theatre/dinner. But, is this too much to wear in a metro area outside of London? Should I be considering something more appropriate for Peoria, not Chicago? <BR> <BR>

Sounds great for Christmas Dinner. But you might want something more downmarket for breakfast time. <BR> <BR>Seriously, it doesn't sound like a problem anywhere. How classy is the joint?

Hi, <BR> <BR>As a UK Northerner, your outfit sounds fine, although I'd be tempted to ditch the feather boa! <BR> <BR>However, I assume your hotel is an upmarket one? (Let me know the name, and I'll see if I know it.) You would be very overdressed for my local B&B!

I LIKE the feather boa!

Honey, a girl can NEVER go wrong with shiny or feathers....

Hi professor: <BR>A wise woman once told me the most inportant thing a well-dressed woman wears is her ATTITUDE! You go girl...enjoy your boa and rhinestones! Have a great time!

Thanks so much for all your replies. I feel much more confident that what I have chosen is not "too much"--feather boa or not. <BR> <BR>I really appreciate the time you have taken to respond to what I feel is really a pretty trite concern on my part. But, it is these little things that nag at me so, again, thanks!

Your outfit sounds great! I'm just glad it wasn't a question about footwear!

Nope--no footwear problems here. I have my hiking boots and one pair of sensible walking shoes (brown Ecco's) already chosen and ready to go. I just can't decide which would be best with this outfit.....

Where are the fashion police when you need them? Do yourself a favour and pick up an In Style magazine, sounds like you need a little help! After all you don't want to pick up a magazine and see a picture of yourself with a black box over your eyes do you? Sorry but the truth hurts sometimes!

Well, now. <BR>The outfit sounds dandy, but with sensible walking shoes????! <BR> <BR>That'll definetly get you a black box! <BR> <BR>Go with the hiking boots.

Hi Professor: <BR>Except it will be December, I would tell you forget everything and go barefoot !!! <BR>You must have a pair of plain black pumps in your closet...if not a trip to your local Payless is in order. <BR>Your outfit sounds smashing! Have a wonderful trip!