Office parties are tricky.  You want to let loose with your coworkers, yet you must be careful not to dance on the bar top or reveal your feelings to that office crush after a few rounds of liquid courage.  Choosing the right outfit for an office soiree is also a head-scratcher.  You want to look festive, but not overdressed.  Feminine, but not too sexy.  And trendy, but not like you’re going to the club.
Here are 5 options selected from Banana Republic that will keep you dressed for success at your next office party:
 
1) You can’t go wrong in a little …read more

Much to my chagrin I’ve spent many a frantic moment tearing through my closet looking for a dress to wear to a wedding, fashion show, or some other dressy engagement requiring me to look like a grown-up.  To avoid those fashion panic attacks, I recently purchased several basic black frocks that can be dressed up or down.  The little black dress (LBD) never goes out of style and it’s perfect for any occasion.
 
 
But don’t just take my word for it.  Read fashion stylist Colin Megaro’s four reasons why every Hot Mama needs a LBD:
1.  Black is flattering for all sizes, …read more

Me to We Style’s Bali Bamboo Dress adds a twist to the little black (and red) dress, since it’s actually 5 dresses in 1!  The Canadian clothier was nice enough to send me a dress to try out.  When I opened the package I thought, “Cool, a black skirt,” and immediately wrapped it around my waist. 
I was pleased it gave me adequate coverage, because there are few things less comfortable than a wrap skirt that unwraps or flies open when you’re walking.
Then I remembered that the skirt, made with 100 percent organic cotton and bamboo, can be worn four other ways: as …read more

Actress Rashida Jones is on a roll.  She co-starred on the hit NBC comedy, The Office, and now she’s starring opposite funny man Paul Rudd in the bromantic comedy I Love You Man.  The movie opens in theaters today and Rashida wore a cute and strategically sheer dress to the Los Angeles premiere.
Rashida’s little black dress is both demure and daring.  And her strappy sandals are to die for.  But I wouldn’t wear the dress without a slip for fear of revealing anything…er… private. 
What do you think of Ms. Jones’ dress?  Is it hot or not?
Image credit: Newscom

At the red carpet premiere of the movie “Cadillac Records,”  superstar Beyonce Knowles (she plays blues singer Etta James in the film based on the legendary Chess Records story) and actress Gabrielle Union give new meaning to the expression, “Black is beautiful.”  
Each gorgeous gal is wearing a sophisticated, sexy, and modern take on the little black dress.  I love the puffy sleeves on Beyonce’s knee-length cocktail dress (it fits her perfectly) and Gabrielle’s Grecian-inspired, flowing gown is a dramatic head turner. 
I can’t decide, so what do you Hot Mamas think?  Which black dress do you prefer?
Photo credits: Bauer Griffin

 
Nicole Sherzinger is one foxy Pussycat Doll.  With the way she’s filling out this strapless little black dress, Beyonce may have to watch her back, literally.  I could never wear them, but the stiletto heels are super sexy and the ensemble is accented by just a touch of bling on the finger and the wrist.
Here’s how you can copy Nicole’s hot look for less.   
 
 Tia strapless satin dress, Forever 21, $22.80
 

Sable Jeweled Satin Dress, Forever 21, $22.80 

Rhinestone bracelet, Claire’s, $14.50 
 
Large Rhinestone ring, Forever 21, $5.80 
 
Fringe Platform Stilettos, Forever 21, $28.80 

Or for a more colorful twist…Vero Nero Platform, Forever 21, $22.80 
Photo credits: Newscom, …read more