What happens when you bring 3500 of your closest friends to the Lincoln Memorial for an all-white affair? You get an amazingly wonderful time with an incredible backdrop. For the third year in a row Diner en Blanc, the invitation only pop-up picnic, returned to Washington DC. Naturally yours truly was in attendance and of course I had to find something to wear.
I already had an all-white look but I didn’t want to make it feel like Groundhog Day. To keep an annual event, fresh you cannot wear the same thing over and over again. I wanted to wear something different. Since I’ve been a fan of the short suit this season, I figured it’d be fantastic in all white. August in DC is notoriously hot so my suit in linen was the obvious choice to at least attempt to keep cool.
Because DC usually holds the all-white affair so late in August, white outfits can be hard to find. Women can always Rent the Runway but guys have to hunt down end of season sales. My advice: grab things now and you’ll be ready for next year. The bonus is there are some great sales so get some fantastic deals. Try shopping my looks.
For those that do not know, Diner en Blanc is a secret party where guests do not know the location until moments before it’s set to begin. Created in France, this invitation only event now happens in over 70 cities worldwide. And there are strict rules to attend. Everyone must wear all white; bring their own table and chairs, along with their own table settings with full china as well as an elegant picnic dinner.
There has been some backlash about the all-white affair saying it is pretentious, exclusive and too much effort. However these critics do not understand the spirit of the event. It’s about friendship; it’s about meeting new people and it’s this great camaraderie that makes for a truly amazing experience. For me, it’s one of the most diverse events Washington has to offer.
To be invited to Diner en Blanc you have been a member had, attended a preview event or have been invited by a member. However there is a waiting list for invites. Rumor has it that Washington’s list is 20,000 people long. My advice get on the list now, it’s an evening you don’t want to miss. I’d love to hear your thoughts about Diner en Blanc, drop me a line or leave a comment.
Shop My Looks/Details
Shorts White Linen – Michael Kors; Dress Shirt White Linen – Michael Kors; Blazer White Linen – Tallia; White Sneakers – Stan Smith Addidas; Sunglasses – Gucci; White Fedora – Dobbs (similar)
