Okay, I will be the first to admit that I don’t actually love Michael Kors. While classically beautiful, it seems like a lot of his things follow the trends, rather than creating them. But every now and then he really surprises me with something elegant and insightful. Like this:
I can’t get over the gorgeous silhouette of this dress. The bateau neckline is modest, but beautiful, and in combination with the tulip skirt, this would be a flattering dress on so many women. Plus, the wool fabric really does give the appearance of thickly folded origami. Available for $1,795 at Michael …read more

I’ve always been one of those women who wants a dress to do do double duty. In other words, when I shop, I want to buy knowing that what I purchase isn’t a wear-it-once wonder. So, in shopping for a dress for Jane’s wedding, I want a dress that I know I will wear again. This option, by Rachel Roy, is a no-brainer:
The delicate lace paneling in a classic sleeveless style is definitely something that will not only take me from day to night, but also from party to party, with ease. I love the feminine bow detail at the …read more

Alexander McQueen is known for his quirky, irreverent designs. But, that doesn’t mean he doesn’t have a softer side. With this delicate silk chiffon gown, he remakes traditional Grecian draping via volume. I particularly like the way the rear sash (attached at the right shoulder) lifts up the side of the gown and creates a subtly asymmetrical hemline. This statuesque masterwork is a surefire way to get noticed at your next black tie event. Imagine it with those gorgeous Louboutin T-bar Sandals poking out from under the chiffon, and a simple metallic clutch. This beauty is available at Net-A-Porter for …read more

One of my favorite bridal lines is Maggie Sottero. The details are exquisite and the dresses are so feminine. This particular bridal gown dubbed “Oakley” is one of my favorites.

The off-the-shoulder design and sweetheart neckline are beautiful, but what really makes this wedding gown is the beautiful lace. The wedding dress is slim fit though the hips. Then after the satin band, there are tiers or plated tulle and lace that make up the A-line skirt. It’s available in all white as well as a few other nice color combinations.
Check out this and the many other beautiful bridal gowns from …read more

We don’t normally feature that many short evening dresses here, but this velvet dress from Diane von Furstenberg (one of my favorite designers) is worth a look.

The simple silhouette is all dress up in velvet and sequin details. The square neckline and pleated bell skirt are flattering to most body types.
If you are looking for a hot party dress this holiday season and aren’t going all out for an evening gown, this black velvet dress is a fantastic choice.
Get this Diane von Furstenberg dress now at Neiman Marcus for $698. Limited sizes are available (8, 10).
Photo credit: Neiman …read more

This BCBG Max Azria gown is a great choice for a bridesmaid dress. It features tonal stripes in crinkled chiffon.

You can get this black gown in regular or petite sizes at Nordstrom. It’s priced at $360.
This gown features a gathered bodice and an adjustable tie at the Empire waist. If you are planning an evening wedding, this black bridesmaids gown is a fabulous option. Check out more beautiful gowns from BCBG Max Azria.
Photo credit: Nordstrom

This gorgeous lace gown from Carmen Marc Valvo features a pewter lace overlay over black pure silk.

This dress is sexy and sweet, featuring a strapless neckline and scalloped hem. If you are looking for a black gown that is a little different, this one is a fantastic pick.
Available at Bergdorf Goodman for $1,170, only a few sizes are left. Check out these other beautiful Carmen Marc Valvo gowns too.
Photo credit: Bergdorf Goodman

Are you looking to add a little black dress to your collection that is a little different? This Fendi cocktail dress is a wonderful choice.

Instead of ruffles, this black dress uses petals for an interesting texture. It’s a great dress for a cocktail party as I’m sure it would garner a lot of attention. To contrast the petal texture of the dress, I’d wear it with glossy patent leather peep toe slingbacks and carry a shiny patent clutch.
You can get this Fendi dress right now at Net-a-porter for $3,530.
Photo credit: Net-a-porter

Every Friday, we will point out a cocktail dress, evening gown or wedding dress that is a great bargain. This week, we have a lace cocktail dress that is really adorable. Though it’s not ultra formal, it can definitely be versatile staple in your wardrobe.

This strapless cocktail dress from BCBGMAXAZRIA is on sale right now at Bloomingdale’s for $252. This dress features a lace alternating with satin shutter pleating. Sizes 2-12 are available.
Another great deal is this Vera Wang full-length satin gown that is marked down from $1,050 to just $735 at Bergdorf Goodman. This gray dress features a sequined …read more

I adore the shape of this Badgley Mischka halter gown. Plus, it’s black and everybody loves a great black dress.
Beading glams up the neckline and the waist, while the skirt falls loosely in a figure flattering silhouette. The highlight is definitely the open keyhole bodice which shows off your assets.
You can order the Badgley Mischka Platinum Label Chiffon Halter Gown right now at Saks Fifth Avenue for $895 in sizes 0-12. Add a pair of silver strappy sandals or a hot slingback and you can hit the town!
Photo credit: Saks Fifth Avenue