My Dear Reader, I do trust that you implemented last week’s gala preparation tips and are ready for your Red Carpet closeup and close brushes with the stars who shine brightly at the Toronto Film Festival.

Sadly, not all the films are galas. Some screenings begin first thing in the morning. Some films have unbearable lines that subject you to the harsh elements. Usually it’s the early Autumn sun, but this year it is the epic rain.

A typical Film Festival day does not only consist of screenings. Oh no, Dear Reader. You simply must attend a party or two, along with a networking function and a Producer’s Dinner.

It makes for long days filled with many potential fashion pitfalls. How to survive such adverse conditions? You simply follow a Film Festival Survival Guide, of course. Many journalists offer these guides, but ignore them all. This is the only one you require for a successful, stylish, and -of course - sophisticated Toronto Film Festival experience.

Lucinda’s List: The Toronto International Film Festival Survival Guide

1. Dress Day to Night - The sophisticated Festival-goer samples everything the event has to offer: parties, luncheons, cocktails, and film premieres. When you walk out the door, your outfit has to be ready for everything.
2. Appropriate Shoes - Standing in long lineups is part of the Toronto International Film Festival for people without VIP passes. Cocktail parties require being on one’s feet. You must put your best foot forward because you never know who you’ll meet at the Fest. It’s all about networking. Gossip columnists and future employers notice your feet, so shine up those Manolos and hide the Crocs.
3. Power Snack - After starving yourself to fit into gala gowns, don’t ruin your sleek physique by pigging out on popcorn. Toss a handful of almonds in your handbag to maintain your energy.
4. Remember Your Beauty Sleep - Well-rested people are also the most beautiful. Do choose one night to stay in and catch up.
5. Timing is Everything - Though they are fabulous, Festival parties can be overwhelming and faces can become too familiar. Exit an event while you’re still enjoying yourself and never be the last to leave. This creates an air of mystery. The last person to leave a party exudes desperation, not sophistication.
6. Exit Strategy - With so many films to choose from, one inevitably makes a terrible mistake. What do do when one finds oneself watching the unwatchable? Wait it out. It’s rude to walk out, especially when in the presence of filmmakers. If it’s particularly unbearable, shut it out by planning the next day’s outfit in your mind.
7. Dress to Impress - The Toronto International Film Festival is commonly referred to as the festival for fans. This does not mean one should be sloppy. Stars are around and you may run into your favourite actor any time. Do you want him or her to see you in your worn out sweatsuit? No, you do not. Dress well.
8. Can the Camera, Avoid Autographs - When you do run into your favourite star, there isn’t anything less sophisticated than asking for an autograph and posing for a photo. Both are awkward. A graceful exchange involves praising the actor’s work and appreciating the moment.
9. Network Know-How - Deals are made and deals are broken at the Festival. People are looking for breaks and opportunities are everywhere, but exercise decorum when trying to slip a script to your favourite director. There are rules to the system and you should follow them.
10. No Repetition - Under no circumstances should anyone repeat outfits during the Film Festival. Critics break this rule more than anyone else, and that should change. I think they’re disliked due to their stale-popcorn scent, which is more offensive than any scathing review.