How to Throw A Sexy, Stylish Soiree

by Marlies Dekkers

Imagine: Picasso telling dirty jokes to a Nobel Prize winning scientist while Coco Chanel is making out in the corner with her (not so-) secret lover Igor Stravinsky. Just another night chez Misia Sert, sometime during the Roaring Twenties in Paris. This original French it-girl,   was the inspiration for my latest Couture Collection and while researching Misia’s amazing life, I got inspired to throw my own absolutely fabulous petite fête. Lemme tell you, my friends still haven’t recovered… (I swear it has nothing to do with the Mint Juleps I served)

Here’s how you can turn a boring dinner party into a sexy soirée:

  1. Be selective when you make your guest list. Only choose fun, conversation-loving people and pick characters from all walks of life; from rock stars to rocket scientists. Stick to 6-8 guests, the perfect balance between intimate and festive.
  2. Get yourself some classic writing paper and matching envelopes, and send a superstylish handwritten invite to your chosen few. Believe me, it really sets the tone for your night.
  3. Choose a 1920s inspired dress codeFlapper Fabulous? Channel Chanel?- and INSIST people stick to it. Promise a best-dressed prize if you must! Guaranteed lots of pre-party fun and of course, a-ma-zing Instagram pics of the night itself.
  4. Come up with a classic signature drink for the evening. Champagne is always a great idea, or you could serve an original 20ties cocktail such as a Bee’s Knees. (Shake 2 oz gin, 3/4 oz honey syrup and 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice with ice, strain into a chilled cocktail glass, serve.) Santé, ma chérie!
  5. Don’t slave over a hot oven all day, offer fabulous finger foods instead. Check Aida Mollenkamp’s new twist on 1920’s French cuisine. For example: warm good-quality olives over low heat with citrus zest, olive oil, and fennel seed until fragrant then serve warm, or roast cheese in the oven, topped with thyme and honey, for a makeshift fondue.

These tips will leave you with more time to play Misia, and mingle with your oh-so-fabulous guests!

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