April may indeed bring some showers, but that won’t stop us from getting out for some serious R&R, now that spring has officially arrived. It’s time to shake off Old Man Winter, get out of the house and have some fun. Not sure where to go and what to do? Well, April has myriad options, and to make it even easier, we chose three great events for you! Mark your calendar for the Boots and Black Tie Gala, the Gumbo Gala and the Magic City Art Connection. And for wardrobe inspiration, we’ve handpicked some fabulous options from Theadora Abbeyluxe, M. Lavender and Marella.
The event: Boots and Black Tie Gala — Saturday, April 11
This annual fundraising event benefits the Special Equestrians, providers of horseback riding therapy to the area’s special needs population. The Boots and Black Tie Gala promises an entertaining evening of fun with cocktails, dinner and dancing, as well as a silent auction. Held at the beautiful equestrian facility, Hillock in Calera, AL, guests can meet the beautiful horses and will be entertained by professional equestrians, along with performances by several Special Equestrian riders. To purchase tickets, visit specialequest.org. Tickets are $150 for individuals, $1,500 for a table of 10.
This gala encourages guests to wear boots with their fancy attire, so ditch the heels and don your favorite pair of boots with one of these stunning options:
Look #1:
Add a little flair with a modern floral applique. Rebecca Taylor dress with floral applique,$495; silver textured booties, $189; silver and gold earrings, $156; cuff, $242; from Theadora Abbeyluxe
Look #2:
Short and sassy, this gorgeous dress will be your spring event go-to. Parker beaded dress at M. Lavender, $429
Look #3:
A classic design with just the right amount of beading and a peek-a-boo neckline: Nicole Miller gown, $440; shown with rhinestone cuff, $418; available at Marella
The event: The Gumbo Gala — Saturday, April 18
Now in its 10th year, the annual Gumbo Gala takes place at Regions Field, where hundreds of teams, both professional and backyarders, compete for Birmingham’s esteemed Best Gumbo award. Live entertainment will be provided by Rollin’ in the Hay. This family-friendly event benefits Episcopal Place, a Christian-based organization providing safe, affordable housing, transportation, meals and other necessary services to the elderly and disabled in the area. Tickets are $12 each if purchased in advance, $15 at the gate and kids 12 and younger get in free. Get tickets here.
Attire for the Gumbo Gala is definitely casual, so you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and cute, comfy attire with an easy-to-carry handbag for your essentials.
Look #1:
Stay cool and chic with this easy, breezy ensemble. Silk print tank, $132; white pique short, $128; Hammitt crossbody, $145; metallic wedge, $187; and black double horn necklace, $218; from Theadora Abbeyluxe
Look #2:
This adorable print dress can easily be worn with flats or heels to suit any occasion. Print dress, $440; available at M. Lavender
Look #3:
Neutral hues with a pop of color reads comfortable with high style. Vince suede vest, $550; silk tank, $195; and chambray shorts, $195; Lulu Raine necklace, $195; available at Marella
The event: The Magic City Art Connection — April 24 – 26
Birmingham is home to some of the greatest local artisans, and Magic City Art Connection is the perfect celebratory commemoration of them. Magic City Art Connection, now in its 39th year, draws from a pool of locally, regionally and nationally recognized talent in visual art, food and wine, dance and music to bring the best of the area’s talents together in one amazing festival.
Attire for this daytime outdoor festival is casual, but you’ll want to show your own artistic inner child with fun prints or patterns.
Look #1:
A fun, jellyfish print top and some high shine accessories are perfect when paired with shorts or jeans to suit the weather. Jellyfish print top, $132; gold metallic heel, $145; horn cuff, $159; from Theadora Abbeyluxe
Look #2:
Style meets comfort with a silk romper paired with a locally made beaded necklace. Joie romper, $268; beaded necklace, $295; available at M. Lavender
Look #3:
A beautiful display of color and comfort, this Trina turk romper is the perfect dressy/casual hot weather staple. Romper, $338; crossbody, $40; necklace, $125; at Marella
Enjoy some sunshine and warmer temps! And for more fun events going on in April, check out our Happenings page.