Ever notice how whispers just mean you did something right? Wear what you make and own it completely. If they're talking, you're standing out. That's the whole point at a gallery opening. I've built my own pieces for years now. The loud whispers fade when you keep showing up unbothered.
How much does their reaction even matter when you already know the work is solid? Real confidence is measured by your certainty in the work, not their volume.