Lance Avery Morgan
Where Does Media Meet Style? You’re In The Right Place. Join The Curated Texan X The Fifth Avenue Club Austin Collaboration With Rob Giardinelli & Lance Avery Morgan
Photography by Emma Horn
We’re thrilled to announce the exclusive collaboration between Curated Texan and The Fifth Avenue Club Austin. It’s a dynamic style panel bringing together tastemakers, trendsetters, and thoughtful voices on how fashion shapes not just what we wear, but how we live, connect, and give back, according to Curated Texan’s Lance Avery Morgan, Rob Giardinelli, and The Fifth Avenue Club Austin leaders Andrea Faye Hyland and Nathan Idais.
From decoding event attire to exploring the power of presence, this gathering blended storytelling and style into an evening of inspiration, insight, and a touch of glamour. Because in today’s world, dressing well isn’t just about looking good, it’s about showing up with purpose, so enjoy a glimpse at the festivities with some terrific insight on fall style dos and don’ts at the L’Auberge Commodore Perry Hotel, with many stylish guests in attendance.
What are some reasons why event attire matters?
Event attire is more than just clothing; it’s a form of social language. The way you dress signals respect for the host, the occasion, and even the cause being supported. Think of it as part of the evening’s choreography: when everyone steps into black tie, cocktail, or creative attire, you’re collectively setting the tone. In fashion, details matter; polished shoes, the right accessories, or even a daring pocket square or piece of jewelry, can elevate the room’s energy. Plus, the proper attire builds confidence, and confidence is magnetic. If fashion is armor, then event attire is your spotlight.
Pro Tip: When you arrive in the proper attire, you’re saying, ‘I value being here.’ It sets the tone.
What is a good first step I can take to elevate my wardrobe? Start with fit; fit is everything. Even the most expensive garment falls flat if it doesn’t sit properly on your frame. A tailored blazer or a crisp pair of trousers can instantly transform your presence. From there, introduce one unexpected element, such as a textured jacket, a patterned tie, or sleek boots. For women, it might be swapping out a basic heel for a sculptural one or adding a statement bag. Style is in the details, and right now we’re seeing a lot of emphasis on quiet luxury: clean lines, rich fabrics, and subtle sophistication. Think of it as an upgrade without needing a complete overhaul.
Speaking of style details, “The best part of our fall fashion panel wasn’t just the style; it was the gracious hosting and thoughtful collaboration with Curated Texan with Lance and Rob,” shares Andrea Faye Hyland, who leads Saks Fifth Avenue’s The Fifth Avenue Club. “That made the dialogue so impactful.”
Event attire is more than just clothing; it’s a form of social language.
Pro Tip: Always add one surprising detail; maybe it’s textured loafers, a bold watch, or, for women, a sculptural clutch. Style is in the details. Right now, ‘quiet luxury’ is the big trend: clean lines, rich fabrics, subtle sophistication. It’s an upgrade, not an overhaul.
Katy Brewer Copley
How does attire help an introvert have more presence at events? Clothing can speak before you ever open your mouth. For introverts, a sharp look provides a built-in confidence boost and acts as a conversation starter. A velvet dinner jacket, a bold pair of glasses, or even an eye-catching pair of cufflinks can invite people in. It’s almost like placing a spotlight on yourself, tastefully, without drawing attention to yourself. Today’s trend of expressive tailoring, colorful loafers, and even luxe casual pieces gives introverts ways to stand out while staying comfortable. Essentially, style gives you presence without performance.
Pro Tip: Personal style is like a built-in icebreaker. A velvet jacket, cool frames, or a statement necklace gives people a reason to approach you. You don’t have to work the room; your style does it for you.
Right now, ‘quiet luxury’ is the big trend: clean lines, rich fabrics, subtle sophistication. It’s an upgrade, not an overhaul.
Share about your experiences supporting numerous philanthropies by attending events across the state and around the world. We’ve seen firsthand how fashion and philanthropy are intertwined. Across Texas, and globally, events are as much about community as they are about couture. From Houston galas dripping in sequins and diamonds, to chic Parisian charity soirées where minimalism reigns, each culture celebrates giving back with its own aesthetic. Dressing for these events isn’t vanity; it’s a form of respect and solidarity. Supporting causes means showing up polished, energized, and ready to amplify the mission. And truthfully? The joy of these gatherings lies in their glamour, generosity, and the sense that your presence, both personal and sartorial, helps fuel impact.
Pro Tip: Each city has its own personality. Texas loves sparkle and statement gowns, whereas Europe tends to lean into chic, minimalist styles. But the throughline? You show up polished and energized to amplify the mission. Fashion is part of the generosity.
Do you have any advice for attire tips when attending a charity luncheon or gala? Daytime luncheons call for lighter fabrics, softer tones, and effortless chic; think light suits, silk blouses, and pastels with a touch of polish. Avoid anything too flashy under daylight. For galas, however, it’s time to dial it up. Evening calls for drama: tuxedos with velvet lapels, gowns with bold shoulders, shimmering metallics, and statement jewels. For men, trend-forward black tie right now includes midnight blue, double-breasted blazers, and velvet smoking jackets. For women, asymmetric gowns, capes, and sleek column silhouettes are everywhere. The throughline? Dress to honor the cause and the company; when you feel your best, you shine your brightest.
Pro Tip: Daylight is for chic restraint; evening ballrooms with chandeliers are for glamour. Men, this is your chance to come to play with velvet jackets. Women, try asymmetric gowns, sleek columns, or a dramatic cape. Think of it as: sunlight elegance, moonlight sparkle.
Dress to honor the cause and the company; when you feel your best, you shine your brightest.
What are some of the oddest things you’ve seen happen at a gala, wardrobe-wise, and other happenings? Oh, where do we begin? We’ve seen heels snap mid-dance floor, bow ties mysteriously migrate around necks, and elaborate gowns get accidentally dunked in champagne fountains. There was the time someone mistook a “black tie” invitation for “western chic” and showed up in a cowboy hat and boots; bless their confidence! And of course, the dreaded wardrobe malfunctions: gowns caught in car doors, cufflinks flying off into the soup course, even a pair of sequin pants splitting at a silent auction. But here’s the truth: fashion hiccups often become the night’s most memorable and endearing moments. They remind us not to take ourselves too seriously, even under the crystal chandeliers.
Pro Tip: Wardrobe malfunctions aside, those hiccups usually become the most endearing stories of the night. If your sequins split mid-silent auction, at least you’ll be remembered.
So, get out there, dress your best, and have fun at as many galas as you can support this fall season. For a personal stylist consultation at the Fifth Avenue Club Austin, email saksaustin@s5a.com.
