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Archive for the ‘Style and Fashion’ Category

The Best Dressed Madison of D.C.

Sunday, March 21st, 2010

Vote for the Best Dressed Madison to celebrate the launch of MYiLIVE.com’s D.C. Area Boutique Blowout, which includes 5 days this week of 75% off sales from nearly 20 DC area boutiques!  See it in action here.

The winner receives $100 to use towards the sale and two runner ups receive $50 each:

1st Place:  Chelsea Maughan

2nd Place: Stephanie Fontenot

3rd Place (tie): Toni Henderson, Catalina Cabral

Caitlin McCleary:

Caitlin McCleary in Anthropologie Top

Carissa Maquire:

Carissa Maguire in a Lilly Pulitzer Shirt

Catalina Cabral:

Catalina Cabral in a J. Crew Dress

Chelsea Maughan:

Chelsea Maughan Velvet Dress purchased at Cusp

Danielle Fredman:

Danielle Fredman in J. Crew

Makeda Saggau-Sackey:

Makeda Saggau-Sackey in a Crooked Monkey T-shirt

Makeda Saggau-Sackey - Crooked Monkey T-shirt

Natalie Furio:

Natalie Furio in an Anthropologie Dress

Natalie Furio in an Anthropologie Dress

Rachel Cone:

Rachel Cone in an H&M Dress

Rachel Cone in an H&M Dress

Rebecca Kastan:

Rebecca Kastan in Burberry Scarf, Prada Belt, Theory Dress

Rebecca Kastan in a Burberry Scarf, Prada Belt, Theory Dress

Stephanie Fontenot:

Stephanie Fontenot in a Lilly Pulitzer Dress

Stephanie Fontenot in a Lilly Pulitzer Dress

Toni Henderson

Toni Henderson in a C.K. Bradley Skirt purchased at her store, Mint Condition

Toni Henderson in a C.K. Bradley Skirt purchased at her store, Mint Condition

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Taking Your Money Fur-Ther with Faux Fur Styles

Monday, January 11th, 2010

by Quin Woodward-Pu

It’s the peak of fur wearing season, but the recession seems to have taken our dollars and put them in permanent hibernation. Just because you’re strapped for cash, though, doesn’t mean you have to give up the luxurious appeal of fur. The secret is using faux fur, which is not only animal friendly (see a great Vegan faux fur vest here), but also warm and glamorous just like the real thing. Instead of splurging on an extravagant sable you can only wear a few times a year, try pieces with less fur coverage for more wearability and less investment.

A fur trimmed collar on a dress up or dress down cardigan is a great way to get versatility out of your new pieces. This Semantiks version, which features a contrasting colored collar, would be great with a skirt for cocktail hour or jeans for the weekend. It’s also got just a touch of faux fur, making it more believable. Another advantage to items like this useful cardigan? Unlike real fur items, faux fur apparel can usually be washed at home, without the inconvenience or expense of dry cleaning.

One hip new look this season is the faux fur vest, which is obviously not real, but keeps the hipster look of a bohemian with money to spare. This Bisou Bisou style is made of an interesting textured material, adding intrigue to the vest and offering even more exotic appeal. Paired with legging pants, an off white tank, and motorcycle boots, this vest is rocker chic at it’s hippest. You could also dress it up by wearing it over a long-sleeved, mini-skirted black or neutral colored dress and sky-high boots.

Even high end brands are coming out with cheaper fur alternatives. Check out this shrug in a super-matchable cream color. Worn with cocktail dresses or even gowns, this shrug is just as posh as the real thing, without he hefty price tag. You could even wear it with designer denim for a dressed up look that can go from casual Friday to a nice restaurant or club out at night.

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Staying Warm in the Cold: Style Tips

Monday, January 4th, 2010

by Quin Woodward-Pu

With the majority of the United States getting hit with a snow storm, even warmer areas like the South and Midwest are experiencing freezing temperatures and unpleasant precipitation. Instead of throwing on some old itchy wool scarf that smells like moth balls and an unflattering puffy coat, find a few more fashionable ways to keep yourself toasty in even the coldest of climates. The key is layering, but you can also take advantage of this snowy season’s need for cute accessories that can be mixed and matched for multiple ensembles.

Begin with a few base layers that are fitted, so they won’t add bulk, but thermal, so they’ll provide you with some heat. Long underwear is itchy and antiquated, but newer inventions like thermal leggings are both stylish and functional. Try some from the hip undergarments designer P. J. Salvage.

In addition to leggings, a thermal camisole will keep you warm without adding the bulk of a turtle neck or a knobby sweater. Available in luxurious lace trimmed cashmere from Marks and Spencer, this camisole is a luxury item with real value.

Instead of wearing uncomfortable jeans that stay soaked when wet by freezing rain or snow, try pants in a more water resistant material. For men, slacks that are stain resistant tend to wick away water. While originally stain resistant pants were only offered in industrial worker’s pants, more high end brands such as Brooks Brothers have begun offering this innovative technology for clothing as stylish as the rest of its line. For women, leather pants are both very warm and relatively impenetrable by water. They’re also great for both day and night, but just be sure to keep accessories and the rest of the ensemble appropriate for the time of day and when transitioning to cocktail hour.

leatherpants

Accessories like scarves and gloves are as old as playdates over Christmas break in elementary school, but a grown up way to stay even warmer is with sophisticated items like rabbit fur earmuffs or a hat that’s stylish enough to be the headgear of choice for a James Bond movie villain.

You can even get furs dyed in unexpected colors like baby pink or fashion forward aubergine for added punch. Just be sure to keep your furs to one texture and in complimentary shades when putting together your perfect winter ensemble.

Armed with these tips to stay warm, streamlined, and fashionable this season, you’ll be the best dressed while playing in the snow. Forget uncomfy angora sweaters and boring gray wool coats, the newest looks are colorful and made of natural, sumptuous fabrics for your most effortlessly glamorous outfits ever.

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Dressing for New Year’s Eve

Wednesday, December 16th, 2009

by Quin Woodward-Pu

Whether you’re going up to Times Square of headed to South Beach to ring in the new year, this is one holiday when you can definitely get away with pushing the envelope a bit. From sparkles to shimmer to satin, New Year’s Eve is an occasion for decadence and extravagance. Check out these cool tips to stay warm at the start of a new decade in 2010:

  1. Everyone wears black, so I like to wear something with a little more color. Earlier this year I wrote about wearing white after Labor Day, and wearing white on New Year’s Eve is not only unexpected, but also super glamorous. Check out this vintage Jessica McClintock dress, which would be the talk of any New Year’s party: . Paired with silver heels and diamonds, you’ll be an angelic vision in all the colors of winter.
  2. If you must wear black, as many people feel they look most formal or most alluring in this flattering color, add some punch with patterned or colored tights that will keep you from blending in with everyone else wearing the same color. Try these lacy and racy Betsey Johnson tights for a unique eye catching look. Paired with metallic heels, you’ll definitely stand out with even the simplest of little black cocktail dresses.
  3. Nothing is more dramatic than opera length gloves, and as higher fashion accessories become more affordable and more wearable during the recession, this is a great time to try out this new look. In classic black, they make an elegant statement, but in fiery satin red or even one of this season’s hottest colors, such as forest green or royal blue, gloves are even more fashion forward. Try these leather Preston & York gloves for more versatile everyday use that will look great as your barhopping on a cold evening:
  4. Headbands with bows are a little passé, thanks to their explosive popularity after being seen on the likes of Gossip Girl starlets, but even more outrageous hairpieces are definitely apropos for this holiday occasion. Even more attractive about headbands is their low price point, but glitzy styles can pack a pretty big punch. If you have blonde or red hair, try something in black that’s sparkly and fun, like this style from Wet Seal, which is only six dollars . If you have darker hair, wear something bolder and brighter, and play with textures like feathers, sequins, and lace, as with this Etsy hand-styled bright blue feather headband.

headband

There are many ways to stand out on New Year’s Eve, but unique dressing doesn’t have to be expensive or gaudy. Play with colors and designs for an ensemble that is glamorous and just a little over the top to bring in the new year with a fashionable bang.

I also want to point out a great holiday contest running on The Big Piece of Cake that has daily giveaways; including dresses, jewelry, gifts, and even copyright services!  Check it out, it’s free to sign up and who doesn’t enjoy free stuff!

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Black Friday Sales in Washington DC, Online, and Beyond

Sunday, November 22nd, 2009

blackfridayYes, shoppers paradise is here:  Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and all of the holiday shopping sales that are upon us! MYiLIVE is here to help – below you’ll find a list of Black Friday sales in the D.C. area, Holiday sales that extend into December, and other online sales around the country that we think you may be interested in.  We will be continuously updating this list, with all new items appearing at the top of the page.  Be sure to bookmark us and check back in when you get hungry to shop!

If you have not yet registered, sign up today to begin building your own customized feed of new sales, products, and events, and try out our own new streamlined local product search to see what’s new on MYiLIVE…..enjoy:

Black Friday Sales in D.C. Area:

Betsey Johnson: 40% off merchandise November 27-30th.  Enter code ‘BONANZA’ at checkout!

Sangaree: 30% off all clothing, Friday-Sunday.

Sassanova (all locations):  30% off ALL Boots & Shoes Friday Only.  20% off ALL Boots & Shoes Saturday and Sunday!

Handbags in the City (Baltimore):  Save 33-60% on all handbags from 9am-9pm, Friday only.

National Jean Company (Bethesa & Reston Locations):  25% everything from 8am-12pm

Redeem:  Take an additional 20% off all marked down items from Black Friday-Sunday!

Wink: Save 20% when you mention ‘MYiLIVE’ on all purchases.

Old Town Boutique District: make a purchase at an Old Town Boutique then take your receipt to another OTBD store and get 10% off your purchase (includes shops such as Hysteria, Treat, Shoe Hive)

Zelaya Shoes: 20% off of the entire store, excluding Fitflops & Ugg’s

Daisy Too: 20% off all Trina Turk merchandise

Caramel Fashion: Black Friday-Sunday save 50% off men’s & women’s clothing

Urban Outfitters: 50% off all sale prices at select stores.

Simply Soles (Online Sale): 40% off site-wide 8-10am and 20% for the following 22 hours (it’s a 24 hour sale on Cyber Monday only).

Other D.C. Area Holiday Sales:

Betsey Johnson: receive a free $50 gift card for any purchase over $200 through November 24th.

Sugar: 20% off all clothing when bringing in boxes of baking mixes (cakes, muffins, quickbreads, etc) to donate to DC Central Kitchen. Nov 26th – Dec 6th

Solbiato Sport: Clearance sale, save an average of 70% off Solbiato Gear online.

Imagine Boutique: Shop sale items marked down as much as 60% off.

Hysteria: complimentary gift wrapping and free shipping on all orders over $100!

Paradigm: Cashmere Sweaters, Shells, Turtlenecks and Cardigans at 25-40% off, BB Dakota jackets and vests starting at $54.50, all in store at this Annapolis gem.

Luna: save 20-40% off items online.

Denim Bar: Sales on Women’s clothing, accessories, and men’s denim up to 50% off!

Cusp: hundreds of items over 50% off, get em while they’re hot!

Urban Chic (All 4 Locations): save 15% on gift packages, free gift wrapping, and receive free Bubble Roome Soap with a $200 gift card purchase.

Intermix: Save $50 on any purchase over $300 with code 50GIFT at checkout.

Emily Grace: New fall sales of 30-70% online

South Moon Under (Online): Save 20% off all men’s clothing with code ‘mens20’. Sale ends November 22nd.  Also receive Free shipping on all orders over $50.

Online Sales You May Like:

Arden B: 99 Cent shipping with a $15 purchase through 11/30.

New York & Company: save $25 on $75 purchase (promo code 1650), $60 off $150 purchase (promo code: 1723), $90 off $200 purchase (code: 1724). Ends 11/24.

Singer 22 (online): Sales up to 90% off hundreds of end of season items.

Sears: Everything is on sale – luggage, kitchenware, shoes, clothing, electronics! Save an extra 20-50% off & free shipping on all purchases over $49. Use promo code ‘SEARS5OFF50’ at checkout to save another $5.

The Hip Chick: Save 15% with coupon code THANKSGIVING15

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Shopping in Philadelphia Boutiques

Sunday, November 8th, 2009

by Quin Woodward-Pu

knitwitKnit Wit

This cute little boutique, with a few locations around Pennsylvania, has been running for 40 years, and it doesn’t look like there’s any end in sight for Knit Wit and its fashionable boutique collections. Knit Wit offers clothing from American designers as well as some European lines, and all their clothing fits into a classic and sophisticated wardrobe. Cocktail dresses, designer denim, and cashmere sweaters are just a few of the great items you’ll find here, along with newer designers like Alice + Olivia, Trina Turk, and Alexis Bittar, as well as old staples like Michael Stars, Blumarine, and Theory. Stop in or shop online for some upscale fashions from this boutique of well-editted collections and timeless items.

Sevilla Smith

Drop into this Philadelphia boutique, opened up by a costumer and stylist, for clothing with some artistic flair. Sevilla Smith is unique in its large collection of eco friendly lines, offering designers like Ecoganic and Ecolux. This socially conscious boutique was recently named “Best New City Boutique” by Philadelphia Magazine, and its vast array of designers and clothing styles make it a great place to shop for several different looks. New party items, like supershiny zebra print leggings and comfy, worn-in looking tunic tops, both by Corey Lynn Calter, round out the urban, boho-chic vibe of Sevilla Smith, while wardrobe basics like high-end jeans and cashmere wraps are available for those looking for clothing that is a little more versatile.

Kimberly Boutique

This Rittenhouse Square store offers an eclectic and dramatic selection of clothing that’s perfect for someone looking for a theatric aesthetic. Carrying premium lines like Badgley Mischka Platinum Label, Hudson Jeans, and Yoana Baraschi, Kimberly Boutique is for young professionals with a little more disposable income looking for well-tailored couture looks. The boutique also carries Spanx to help you look your best in these designer outfits. Hard to find labels like Young Fabulous and Broke, which specializes in slouchy-chic items with formal details that fit in nicely to a working wardrobe, as well as Rachel Pally, can be found at Kimberly Boutique, and its higher end clientele can expect nothing but the best in customer service in this intimate setting.

Omoi

This unique screen tee store, which carries clothing from America and Japan, is an interesting location for its clothing as much as for its gifts and trinkets selection. Offering Tokyo souvenirs like pencil packs and Harajuku-printed notebooks, Omoi’s selection of shirts fits in with their cartoon drawings and Japanese and English phrases. Clothing and accessories are candy colored and fluorescent, while kitschy dolls with bubble gum pink hair and brightly painted personified cupcake paperweights make it a one-stop shop for adults and kids alike. Check out Omoi for some international flair and cross cultural fashion ideas.

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Store Front Spotlight: NY and LA Designer Havens

Monday, October 26th, 2009

by Quin Woodward-Pu
nonoolyons

Nonoo Lyons

It’s all about the arts for this designer duo team, which names its pieces after iconic femmes like Holly Golightly, Elizabeth Bennett, and Madame Bovary. Launching their first collection for Fall/Winter 2009, this new designer presented an exquisite collection that is both strong and structured as well as intricate and feminine. Formal jackets and coats are standout items to this collection, and Nonoo Lyons, comprised of two European women, has a vast array of clothing for the business woman with a sharp wardrobe. Materials used are of the best quality, like cashmere, silk, and European tweeds, though all clothing is assembled and created in the United States. You can find Nonoo Lyons at several international locations, but in America, look for this designer’s lines in New York, where high end boutiques like Intermix and luxury department stores like Henri Bendel carry these unique pieces.

Stop Staring!

Check out this Los Angeles dress store for cocktail hour items like little black dresses and hipster vintage dresses, as well as accessories like long black gloves, netted hats, and spectator pumps. Stop Staring! stocks new items, but all dresses are inspired by retro 1940s and 1950s clothing. Muses for the designers at this store include Audrey Hepburn, Marlene Dietrich, Rita Hayworth and Joan Crawford, and these legendary actresses are channeled in Stop Staring! dresses with a modern twist. The LA hotspot is a destination for Kim Kardashian and Rihanna, with its unique style and whimsical yet sexy consignment like dresses. Stop Staring! specializes in what it calls “rockability clothing,” items that are glamorous with just a bit of an edge. The main showroom is in Paramount, but dresses from this designer are sold throughout California, and can be found online from any location.

Darling

Stop by this New York boutique for a wide range of utlra girly items like lace camisoles and delicate dresses. Known as “a small shop in a big city,” Darling specializes in dresses, and carries prom, formal, wedding, cocktail, and every other kind of dress for a special occasion. The downstairs showroom, which is called the dress salon, has plenty of glamorous dresses, while the upstairs has all the perfect underthings, coats, and a few casual dresses for everyday wear. Darling is owned by Ann French Emonts, a former Broadway costume designer, and her boutique items show her flair for dramatic pieces. There are a few private labels unique to Darling, which are all named for fashion icons like Marilyn Monroe and Jackie O. They even have a selection of sparkling jewelry to help you complete your look for a night out.

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Layering Without Adding Bulk

Sunday, October 4th, 2009

With the first chilly autumnal weekend over, it’s time to figure out how to go out in the cold without looking dowdy or lumpy. The key to staying warm is of course in plenty of layers, but that doesn’t mean you have to wear bulky thermal underwear and turtlenecks. Try these sleek items on for size to stay warm as we head into the colder months.

misssixty

Instead of wearing denim that is always a drag once it gets wet or cold from snow, try these sleek black pants, made of charmeuse, which are slim and sexy but still have the full coverage warmth. They also feature the tapered cigarette shape that is still around this season.

husshoes

If it’s really cold, you could wear trendy thigh high boots to add another layer of warmth, but if it’s still earlier in the fall, like right now, try a gladiator shoe with a little more oomph. These here from Hu’s Shoes are perfect for the latter months of the year, with a chunky heel and intricate leather weaving that provide interest without being too outlandish. You could even pair these with socks, like skinny translucent ones or embellished cable wool ones, both new this season, if you wanted a little bit more coverage.

A skinny camisole is hardly detectable under clothes but can give you a little more protection from winter wind. Pick one in a neutral color, like white, nude, or gray, for versatility. This Betsey Fisher tank has built in support, making it a great investment for ensembles year round. A blouse that is slim fitting under a coat is also important for winter dressing. As most places are heated, you can even wear sleeveless blouses, like this sleek mermaid-like shell from Reiss, as long as you remember a winter coat.

blackgloves

For a weekend night out, keep your hands warm while hailing a cab in a fabulous pair of gloves. While leather versions can be slippery and make handling anything difficult, a pair of woolen gloves are both warm and cute. These opera length ones from Rugby are my favorite, as they combine the formality of evening gloves with the whimsy of woolen mittens from childhood memories. They’re perfect for daytime and nighttime, and can be tucked under coat sleeves or worn over slim fitting ones for added drama.

redeemjacket

A winter coat is an absolute must, but many versions use heavy materials that can be annoying to carry around once inside a heated room. Instead, try a flattering trench. They are still plenty warm but give you a leaner silhouette. The deep pockets are also great for warmth purposes, and can keep you from having to lug around a big purse in case you’re just running out to walk the dog or pick up the mail.

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Skinny on Skinny Jeans

Sunday, September 27th, 2009

by Quin Woodward-Pu

So skinny jeans have been around for a while now, but that doesn’t mean they won’t look great with a few of this season’s updates. You can invest in some new pieces that you’ll wear for years and are sure to become denim staples in your wardrobe.

1) Exposed zippers on the pockets

Exposed Zippers

Exposed Zippers

Earlier in the summer, I wrote about exposed zippers being the next big thing. Sure enough, they’ve exploded onto the scene, and now they’re making an appearance on jeans. Check out the Jessica Zipper Pocket skinny jeans from National Jean Company, which have a great dark wash, tight-fitting pant, and feature an exposed zipper on the back pocket. The zipper detail makes these pants a great garment for casual happy hours when you don’t feel like taking out your whole purse but want to keep the essentials safely squared away.

1a) Ankle zips

Ankle Zip

Ankle Zip

If you don’t like the feeling of metal digging into your butt while sitting on a bar stool, try out this new trend in a different area, namely, the ankle. Zipper ankle jeans are an extension of the peg-legged jeans trend, but feature some edgier hardware located in quite an unexpected area of the pants. These Seven For All Mankind jeans are the perfect mix of fashionable and rockstar glam.

2) Gray jeans

Gray Jeans

Gray Jeans

I wrote about how gray is hitting the winter runways hard, and jeans are no exception. Check out these superfitted gray jeans from Denim Bar that have a sandblasted wash and insouciant worn-in aesthetic. We’ve all seen the rise of dark denim as the standard of formality in designer denim, but gray jeans can have plenty of formal appeal, as well. Paired with a cashmere sweater, gray jeans with a dark uniform wash are perfect for Casual Friday. You could also wear them for a night out with a sexy black top and sky high studded black stilettos.

3) Cigarette pant skinny jeans

Cigarette Jeans

Cigarette Jeans

These are a bit of a departure from the classic skinny jean, since the pant leg is just a bit longer and therefore makes the leg look slimmer. In addition, you can wear much taller heels with these since you don’t have to worry about the hems being too short. Cigarette pants can be in regular trouser material as well, but cigarette jeans are a great part of any denim wardrobe. Try these Genetic pants, available at Pinking Blue: paired with a flowing blouse in silk or chiffon, these pants are great for an upscale happy hour event. On the other hand, their long length through the leg allows for a little more exposure on top, so they’re also great for nights on the town when accompanied by plunging necklines and lots of accessories.

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It’s Gala Season!

Monday, September 21st, 2009

by Quin Woodward-Pu

It’s September, and that can only mean one thing in the District and around other fashionable cities: it’s time to pull out every cocktail dress you’ve ever owned for the never ending slew of invitations to happy hours, cocktail receptions, charity formals, and black tie galas. You could always wear your old prom dress, but with these stylish and affordable dresses for sale this season, why recycle an ill-fitting gown when you can get a sensible yet unique look on a budget?

Cocktail classic

Toggery Dress

Toggery Dress

This Toggery dress from Caramel is anything but boring in the season’s hottest muted neutral color, which can easily be revved up with some bright and punchy accessories. Take this dress from the office to after party with a cardigan and hose form cubicle friendly clothing and sky high pumps and plenty of pearl accessories for cocktail appropriate attire. Well below one hundred bucks at $79, this dress is a great investment because of its versatile color, cut, and style that make it a go-to for the entire season.

Happy hour hot

Happy Hour

Happy Hour

This snappy ruffled LBD is perfect for happy hours on the patio, with its breezy elegance and insouciant sexiness that keep it casual enough for the weekdays but formal enough for an event. Try pairing this $59 dress with this season’s supertall dual toned mary jane platforms for simple sophistication or even some edgy grommet studded booties for extra kick. The neckline is a necklace in itself, so look to large chandelier earrings or rows and rows of rhinestone studded cuffs for added interest in accessories. A sensible blazer makes this dress a keeper for even the chillier happy hour get togethers.

Last hurrah polo game weekends

80's Purple Changeup

80's Purple Changeup

It’s getting a little late in the game for the classically preppy mint julep-soaked sporting event, but polo is still around for a few last games as we round out September. Instead of wearing Lilly Pullitzer like everyone else, try something a bit more unexpected, like this geometry inspired colorblock dress from 80s purple. The graceful bands of color are reminiscent of a couture Rodarte dress, but the $64 price tag is much more affordable and reasonable. Pair this dress with some funky gray heels, and you’ll be the best dressed woman stomping divots.

Black-tie beautiful

Periwinkle

Periwinkle

Say goodbye to stuffy black floor length gowns that blend in with everyone else’s formalwear. Opt instead for brightly colored shorter dresses that maintain formality without neglecting style or cache, like this vibrant tangerine colored sheath from Periwinkle. With its surprisingly pleasant orange floral print and luxurious thick lustrous wrap around belt, this dress is the perfect exclamation point in a sea of black at a charity dinner or corporate gala. Paired with diamonds and classy heels, this dress can pass for even the most formal of events, with its undeniably posh materials of chiffon and satin in distinctive shades that are a complete surprise as we head into cooler months full of dark gray skies and boring black coats.

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