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Fashionable Father's Day
Surprise your favorite father with our nattily attired brunch.
By Cynthia Ann Briscoe and Alicia K. Clavell/ Photography Tina Cornett
   
   
   
   

The third Sunday in June is such a special day. It's a time for the entire family to let dad know just how great he really is.

On the next few pages, you'll find ideas for a clever centerpiece that borrows items from a gentleman's wardrobe; we also include instructions for debonair pillows packed with personality. Combine a few of our other ideas with this fabulous menu, and you'll have a celebration that everyone--including dad--will always remember.

You're sure to get all dressed up for dad this Father's Day. Why shouldn't your table do the same? Rummage through dad's duds for outdated shirts, vintage ties, and other well-loved articles of clothing, and find interesting ways to incorporate them into table decor. Make use of bow ties and shirt cuffs by wrapping them around napkins. You can use a hat as a centerpiece, a tie as a package topper--even surprise him with a pillow made from a favorite shirt.

Can't find any clothing he's willing to part with? Simply launder or dry-clean shirts and ties purchased from a local bargain boutique. Either way, dad (or that special man in your life) is sure to love the result.

Sittin' Pretty
Take the shirt off his back--and put it on his chair. To dress up your father's favorite spot, simply slip a button-down shirt over the back of his chair. Knot a tie around the collar, and place a handkerchief and fresh flower in one pocket.

Off the Cuff
Wrap your napkins in style by using a man's shirt cuff or a bow tie to surround napkins or silverware. Add a cuff link to hold the shirt cuff in place. You can even write the guest's name or a special message on the cuff face.

Hat Check
Here's a heady idea. Incorporate a man's hat into your tablescape as a centerpiece. Combine interesting items from your cabinet, such as this wicker cake stand lined with a baking pan. Add florist foam and colorful flowers. For the crowning glory, place a hat or two on top of the arrangement. Or purchase an inexpensive but terrific topper; cut a hole in the crown, and drop in a vase filled with beautiful blooms.

The Missing Link
It's his special day, and you wouldn't want dad to lose track of his beverage. In place of a wineglass marker, tie a ribbon through a cuff link, and attach it to the stem of the glass. Consider adding a handwritten note to the ribbon.

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