CorpGoth Goes to a Con

Most every Memorial Day Weekend since I was about 16, I've gone to BayCon, the local science-fiction/fantasy convention. There have been times I've skipped due to other events or illness, sure, but 95% of the time, I've gone. Sometimes I've been on staff, sometimes I've entered the costume masquerade, & for the past 15 or so years, I've been a panelist. The con experience ranges from super-awesome to old hat. No matter what, it's nearby, & I know a lot of my oldest friends will be there.

This year, I'm on three panels, two of which are about Carnivale (this year's theme). Since my husband & I have been to Venice's Carnevale & created a DVD about it, this makes sense. I didn't wear my Carnevale costume since I would be taking the bus to & from the con's hotel, but I did dress up a little bit.

What I'm wearing:
Burgundy tailcoat trimmed in black lace, made by Donna of Original Sin Designs
Black sleeveless ruffled knit top, Michael Khors
Black velvet skirt, Speigel (gift from Lisa)
Black elastic belt with ruffle trim, NY & Company
Burgundy faux suede boots, DSW
Black tights, Calvin Klein
Long rhinestone earrings, random accessory store
Black velvet mini top hat, The Ruby Raven (trim added by me)
Black patent bat-shaped purse, gift from a friend

Detail of the lace on the sleeves (same lace is on center of the jacket).

As you can see, a lot of my "dress up" clothes are also workday clothes. Just need to add the more exotic pieces like the coat & hat. I used to carry this purse to work, but it just doesn't hold much, so I've relegated it to evening use or for specific event when I won't need to take a bunch of things with me. The bat looks big, but it's all wings!

I also did my nails using Sally Hansen's Salon Effects. Have to say, this wasn't a whole lot easier to use than nail polish -- less messy & no fumes, but just as fussy a process & requires precision & practice.  I messed up one nail & had to do it over again (which is par for the course when I paint my nails). Certainly, this is a nifty effect that couldn't be achieved any other way.  I'll report back on how long they last compared to polish.

So, for those who have a holiday weekend, are you doing anything special?