Cue Card

Describe a piece of clothing you wore for a special occasion

You should say:

• What the occasion was
• What you wore
• Where you bought the clothes
• And what other people at the occasion thought of your clothes

Sample Part 3 Questions

1. Does personality affect how people choose what to wear?
2. When should people wear formal clothes?
3. Do people wear formal clothes more often than before?
4. What clothes do university students wear for their graduation ceremonies?
5. Where can you buy formal clothes in your country?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I'm going to take you back to my high school prom night. I wore a bespoke, emerald green tuxedo that my grandmother had custom-made for me. It was a bold choice, but I was determined to stand out from the sea of black and white suits. The moment I put it on, I felt like a million bucks. The way the green velvet caught the light, the way the fitted jacket accentuated my shoulders... I was the coolest cat in the room.

But what made that outfit truly special was the story behind it. My grandmother had been a seamstress her whole life, and she'd always dreamed of making a tuxedo for one of her grandkids. She spent hours pouring over designs, selecting the perfect fabric, and meticulously sewing every stitch by hand. When she presented it to me, I was blown away by the love and care that had gone into every detail.

That tuxedo wasn't just a piece of clothing – it was a symbol of my grandmother's love and dedication. Wearing it to prom was my way of honoring her and the sacrifices she'd made for our family. And when I looked in the mirror that night, I didn't just see a fancy outfit; I saw a connection to my heritage and the people who'd come before me. That tuxedo was more than just a special occasion – it was a reminder of where I came from, and the people who'd helped shape me into the person I am today.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

bespoke

custom-made or tailored to fit an individual's specific needs or preferences

She wore a bespoke wedding dress that was designed specifically for her body type.

stand out from the crowd

to be noticeably different or exceptional from others

He wore a bright orange jumpsuit to the music festival to stand out from the crowd.

pouring over

to study or examine something carefully and thoroughly

She spent hours pouring over the recipe book to find the perfect dessert to make for her sister's birthday.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Does personality affect how people choose what to wear? I definitely think personality plays a huge role in how people choose what to wear. For instance, if someone's personality is more outgoing and bold, they might choose clothing that's brighter, bolder, and more eye-catching. On the other hand, if someone's personality is more introverted and reserved, they might opt for more understated and classic pieces. I've noticed that people who are more creative and artistic tend to express themselves through their clothing choices, often wearing unique and eclectic outfits that reflect their individuality. Ultimately, the way we dress is a form of self-expression, and our personality is a big factor in determining what we feel comfortable and confident wearing.

When should people wear formal clothes? I think people should wear formal clothes for special occasions that call for a level of respect and sophistication. For example, weddings, job interviews, and formal galas are all events where formal attire is usually expected. Wearing formal clothes in these situations shows that you're taking the occasion seriously and that you're willing to put in the effort to present yourself in a polished and professional way. Plus, formal clothes can really make you feel more confident and put-together, which can be a big boost in high-pressure situations. Of course, the key is to know when to dress up and when to dress down – you wouldn't want to show up to a casual dinner party in a tuxedo, for instance!

Do people wear formal clothes more often than before? I don't think people wear formal clothes as often as they used to. With the rise of casual Fridays and athleisure wear, it seems like people are dressing down more and more. Even in workplaces that used to be super formal, you'll often see people wearing jeans and sneakers these days. That being said, I do think there's still a time and a place for formal clothes, and people still make an effort to dress up for special occasions. It's just that the definition of 'formal' has changed over time – what's considered formal now might be different from what was considered formal 20 or 30 years ago. For example, a suit and tie used to be the norm for men, but now a blazer and dark jeans might be considered formal enough for a lot of occasions.

What clothes do university students wear for their graduation ceremonies? University students usually wear formal academic regalia for their graduation ceremonies, which typically includes a gown, a hood, and a cap. The specific design and colors of the regalia can vary depending on the university and the student's field of study. For example, students in the arts might wear a different colored hood than students in the sciences. Underneath the regalia, students usually wear formal clothes like a suit and tie for men, and a dress or a blouse and skirt for women. It's a big day, so people want to look their best and make a good impression – plus, the formal attire adds to the sense of occasion and makes the ceremony feel more special and meaningful.

Where can you buy formal clothes in your country? There are tons of places where you can buy formal clothes in the US. Department stores like Nordstrom and Macy's usually have a wide range of formal wear for both men and women, from designer brands to more affordable options. You can also find formal clothes at specialty stores that focus on suits and formal wear, like Men's Wearhouse or David's Bridal. And of course, there are plenty of online retailers that sell formal clothes, like Amazon or ASOS. If you're looking for something really high-end or custom-made, you might be able to find a local tailor or boutique that can create something special for you. Overall, there are plenty of options to choose from, depending on your budget and your style.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

dress to impress

to wear clothes that are intended to make a good impression on others

I'm going to dress to impress for the job interview so I can make a good first impression.