I just went to dinner with some girlfriends and we were chatting about shopping. I know, I know, isn’t Trump far more interesting? But, seriously, we were talking about budgeting. We all have to do it, right? So that said, I am rounding up some of my favorite frocks from designers l love for everything from cocktail parties, to weddings, formal dinners, and upcoming holiday parties; the holidays are not too far away. Almost all of these are under $100, and if not, they on sale or well-priced. p.s. Free shipping with code SHIP99 via Sak’s (orders of $100 or more).
Sleek & Chic
I love a good jumpsuit. That’s a fact. They are so easy to wear casually and you can dress them up with some fun statement earrings or a necklace. I included two black ones. I am wearing the Ella Moss jumpsuit. It’s fun, and the perfect look to wear now for a rehearsal dinner, a more formal dinner, or hold onto it for holiday parties since it has a slight sheen. It does run big, so size down. I love the top on it, too, because it’s flirty and forgiving.
The one by Parker fits true to size, and it is perfect for a rehearsal dinner, cocktail party or for work with a blazer (100% chic work look). I am also loving the price. The Alice+Olivia dress is on the higher side of the price range, but I will say, their stuff is worth it. They put a lot of thought into the cut and details of their pieces and they have such flattering pieces. And the design of this dress is no different. It’s chic, and the design of the fabric is a lot of fun. This dress would be great for a cocktail party or afternoon into evening wedding. The black Halston Heritage is almost sold out, and with good reason. It’s a great little black dress and can work for every kind of party imaginable from a summer cocktail party, a wedding, or a holiday party. The cut out sides give it a modern edge, and the halter-style top ensures it’s flattering on everyone.
From left to right: 1. Alice+Olivia sheath dress 2. Halston Heritage cut-out dress 3. Parker jumpsuit 4. Ella Moss Jumpsuit
Short & Sassy
Two things: I won’t ever tire of a mini-dress- they hide a lot, and I will confess I have the purple dress below in pink, and would absolutely buy this in every color and wear on repeat. Milly is one of the best designers out there. The clothes are true to size, the quality is outstanding and they always have fun details. The back on this dress drops down just enough to give it a little sass and I love the sleeve details. This is the perfect dress for an afternoon wedding, cocktail party at the club and can even work for a day event.
I also included the sequins dress by Parker and the cold-shoulder dress by Halston Heritage in this group. Parker always makes a great sequins dress, and they are fun without being too Vegas. This is one I would buy and hold onto for the holidays. The color and price are perfect. The red Halston dress would be perfect for an end-of-summer or early fall afternoon wedding, or just a night out. I love the belt detail on this dress and the cold-shoulder.
From left to right: 1. Milly 2. Parker sequins dress 3. Halston Heritage cold-shoulder
Wedding Ready
I cannot get enough lace, ruffles or fuller skirts. I really think it must be my kids’ Disney influence, and these three dresses are so pretty and would be perfect for any wedding from a black-tie optional to a more causal affair. They can go either way. The champagne colored dress by Adiranna Papell is absolutely perfect. I love the ruffles, the length, and color. The green dress by Vera Wang is a statement. I do love my blue, but I am pretty sure emerald green is about to make a major resurgence and this dress is a steal. Wear it now, and then keep it for next Spring. The dress by Carmen Marc Valvo is a must. It’s crew-neck and sleeveless, and hits at just the right place to ensure a flattering look at the top. I love the color combo, and this is one I would hold onto for a holiday party or fall wedding.
From left to right: 1. Carmen Marc Valvo 2. Adiranna Papell 3. Vera Wang green dress