Tag Archives: Dresses

The Marc by Marc Jacobs Layered-Effect Plaid-Skirt Dress

I was browsing dresses from Marc by Marc Jacobs and came across a dress hat instantly caught my attention. I absolutely love the combination of the black top with red plaid. At first glance, the dress looks like two separate pieces — a plaid skirt with a black sweater-like top. But, in fact, it’s one dress with two layers.

I love the plaid look for the winter holiday season, especially the black and red color combination. I can see myself wearing this outfit to work, or on a Friday casual outing with friends.

So, I bought the dress!

The material is not too heavy, but it keeps me warm. In other words, it’s a perfect cold weather dress. The back of the top part the dress has a very interesting design. On the back, the top part of the dress is split, with a hook on the top and a nice ribbon. The ribbon can be tied in creative ways, especially when wearing your hair up.

I intend to pair this cool dress with black tights (just like the photo here), and a new pair of Frye’s booties in black. The layer-effect plaid-skirt dress from Marc by Marc Jacobs may not be perfect for everyone, but you should give it a look!

Marc by Marc Jacobs Toto Plaid Crepe Dress – on sale $358.95 (originally $598) via Nordstrom

Marc by Marc Jacobs Toto Plaid Crepe Dress

Shop for Party Dresses at Great Prices

When was the last time you bought a dress for a party? As we are getting close to the end of the fabulous Summer (which I am not quite ready to let it go), many retail stores are offering dresses with up to a 70% discount. These sales include many party dresses.

I still have some weddings to attend before the Summer is over and I found some nice dresses via the retail sites. After all, it’s never too early to get your dress!

If you are looking for party dresses at a great price, below are some of my favorite picks.


Alice + Olivia Embellished Sleeveless Shift Dress – $198 (originally $495) via Saks Fifth Avenue

You can never go wrong with dresses from Alice + Olivia. Their dresses are designed for special events and have a touch of fun. I plan on wearing this Embellished Sleeveless Shift Dress for my friend’s upcoming wedding reception in September.

Alice+Olivia - Embellished Sleeveless Shift Dress


Alice + Olivia Deep V-neck Sequined Mini Dress – $297 via (originally $495) Saks Fifth Avenue

This V-neck sequined mini-dress by Alice + Olivia is so glamorous! I think it’s perfect for any special event. It’s even suitable for holiday parties.

Alice+Olivia - Deep V-Neck Mini Dress


Alice + Olivia Dot Embellished Lace Dress – $297 (originally $495) via Saks Fifth Avenue

I am a big fan of polka dot and lace. This Dot Embellished Lace Dress by Alice + Olivia combines my favorite elements with a unique scalloped edge. It’s ideal for a day time casual party.

Alice + Olivia - Dot Embellished Lace Dress

For more Alice + Olivia dresses, check out here.


Kate Spade New York – Structured Mini Dress – $238 (originally $398) via Saks Fifth Avenue

Pink is the color for the season! What else can be more fashionable than this pink dress by Kate Spade New York. The pockets on this dress definitely add some fun to the design.

Kate Spade New York - Structured Mini Dress
For more Kate Spade New York dresses, check out here.


Red Valentino Silk Polka-Dot Embroidered Dress – $398 (originally $995) via Saks Fifth Avenue

This silk Red Valentino dress is embroidered with dots. It looks elegant and stylish. I think it will be ideal for evening events or birthday parties.

Red Valentino - Silk Polka-Dot Embroidered Dress
For more Red Valentino dresses, check out here.


For more party dresses at great price, check out Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Neiman Marcus Last Call, and Yoox.com.

David Meister – Sequin Lace Cap-sleeve Cocktail Dress – $299.60 (originally $428 via. Saks Fifth Avenue)

Polka Dots for Spring 2014

What do you think about polka dots on accessories and clothing? I am always very fond of polka dots. In my opinion, polka dots add a fun element to any design and reminds me of some vintage styles.

For Spring 2014, we are seeing a lot of polka dots designs on accessories and clothing. Tops, skirts, dresses, handbags, and shoes are all making appearances this season. Each year we see variety of pattern designs trend and fade away, but I know polka dots will always be popular.

One of my favorite polka dots items for the season is 3.1 Phillip Lim’s Polka Dots Blouse (available in bone beige and black/white)($501.96). I like this blouse in both colors. I can see myself wearing the blouse in bone beige with my skinny jeans during the day, and wearing the blouse in black/white with short skirt on a night out with friends. The good thing about a polka dots top like this is that it will always be a must-keep piece in my wardrobe.

I think accessories with polka dots can be fun. For example, Mika Contrasting Leather Polka Dot Pumps by Sophia Webster ($896.89) combines with 3-D flowers, and the Polka Dots Shopper Tote by Marni ($692) has bold prints. If you want to spice up your outfits, such accessories would certainly help.

Besides being fun, polka dots can be vintage. A good example of vintage style would be Dolce & Gabbana’s Polka Dots Dress for Spring 2014. This fitted polka dots silhouette with square neck reminds me a dress my mom had when I was growing up. The Dolce & Gabbana polka dots dress would be perfect from day to night.

So, if you haven’t bought polka dots this season, there are a lot of options out there. I’ve list some of my favorites below.


3.1 Phillip Lim – Polka Dots Blouse $501.96 via Farfetch

3.1 Phillip Lim’s Polka Dots Blouse in bone beige

3.1 Phillip Lim’s Polka Dots Blouse


Dolce & Gabbana Polka Dot Dress – $2,950 via Farfetch

Dolce & Gabbana Polka Dot Dress


Marni Polka Dots Skirt – $542 via Farfetch
Marni Polka Dots Skirt


Emanuel Ungaro Polka Dot Print Trouser – on sale for $632.31 (original $903.31) via Farfetch

Emanuel Ungaro Polka Dot Print Trouser


Sophia Webster Mika Contrasting Leather Polka Dot Pumps – $897 via Farfetch

Sophia Webster Mika Contrasting Leather Polka Dot Pumps


For more polka dots accessories and silhouette, shop at Nordstrom.com.

Pink is the New Neutral for Spring 2014

What’s your favorite color for Spring 2014? Pastel color is in for the season. The colors in the category include light green, light yellow, light blue, light pink, and light orange. But pink is special, because it goes well with more colors than the other pastels.

For the Spring season, we are seeing a lot of pink from top to bottom. Eye shadow, lipstick and lip gloss, tops, skirts, handbags, and shoes are all making appearances this season. Every year I read about what the “in color” is. This season it looks like pink is the “in color”.

Some people think the color pink is too girly. But in my opinion pink can be classic and elegant, or can be too close to Hello Kitty. For example, a pink lace dress like Adrianna Papell Lace Sheath Dress can be worn to a Spring wedding or Sunday brunch.

 Adrianna Papell Lace Sheath Dress – $158 via Nordstrom.com

Adrianna Papell Lace Sheath Dress


Dolce & Gabbana Pink Silk Embroidered Dress – $1,892 via Farfetch

Dolce & Gabbana Pink Silk Embroidered Dress


Nicole Miller Lace Fitted Cap Sleeve Lace Sheath Dress – $294 (originally $420) via Nordstrom.com

Nicole Miller Lace Fitted Cap Sleeve Lace Sheath Dress


Another example of “good pink” would be a pink Valentino Small Rockstud Double Handle Tote. This is the small version of Valentino’s famous Rockstud tote in the new pink color. This bag would be perfect from afternoon to evening.

Valentino Small Rockstud Double Handle Tote – $2,145 via Nordstrom.com

Valentino - 'Small Rockstud' Double Handle Tote


Saint Laurent Baby Duffle Shoulder Bag – $1,278 via Farfetch

Saint Laurent Classic Baby Duffle Bag


In short, if you have been avoiding pink because you think it’s too young or immature, I advise you to give pink another look this Spring season.


Valentino Lace Couture Bow Open Toe Pump – $1,045 via Nordstrom.com

Valentino Lace Couture Bow Open Toe Pump


Saint Laurent Petite Ligne Y Leather Tote – $2,490 via Nordstrom.com
Saint Laurent Petite Ligne Y Leather Tote


Ten Best Holiday Dresses for 2013

We are in the middle of the holiday season with many social events that are going on. Have you found your ideal dresses yet? If not, here are my top ten picks, listed by the designer name, in alphabetical order.


Carmen Marc Valvo Embroidered Halter Cocktail Dress in Black/Gold ($585)  This black halter dress with gold embroidered leaves is simple yet elegant. The gold color highlights and compliments the black color of the dress well.

Carmen Marc Valvo Embroidered Halter Cocktail Dress in Black/Gold


Carolina Herrera – Strapless Beaded Chiffon Gown ($8,990)  If you are looking for a formal gown for this holiday, I’d suggest the strapless beaded chiffon gown by Carolina Herrera. This is a good replacement for the typical dark gown for evenings. The beads on the silk chiffon will catch attention with every step you take.

Carolina Herrera – Strapless Beaded Chiffon Gown


Dolce & Gabbana – Strapless Crystal-Belt Dress ($3.825)  This strapless Dolce & Gabbana dress emphasizes your neckline. The overall design is classic, but the crystal-mesh bow belt calls out the waistline and makes it one of a kind. This dress will never go out of style.

Dolce & Gabbana – Strapless Crystal-Belt Dress


Erin by Erin Fetherston – Lace-Bodice Combo Party Dress ($330)  This Erin by Erin Fetherston dress is made of metallic-print material, which is perfect for parties. The black lace layered on the top portion of the dress offsets the strong metallic look and adds some fancy elements to the design.

Erin by Erin Fetherston - Lace-Bodice Combo Party Dress


Herve Leger – Scoop-Neck Bandage Dress ($780)  Red dresses are always great for the holidays. Try to pair this sexy Herve Leger dress with Jimmy Choo’s famous Lang Metallic Strappy Sandal in Silver to show off your curves.

Herve Leger – Scoop-Neck Bandage Dress


Kalinka – Pink Metallic Floral Lace Cocktail Dress ($1,395)  Metallic materials are some of the essential elements for the holiday seasons. If you are tired of the typical black dresses, try this Kalinka dress in pink metallic floral lace and scalloped-eyelash trim.

Kalinka – Pink Metallic Floral Lace Cocktail Dress


Kay Unger New York – Illusion Lace Cocktail Dress ($460)  This Illusion Lace Cocktail dress by Kay Unger New York is another red dress I like for this holiday season. It’s not as revealing as the Scoop-Neck Bandage dress by Herve Leger (see above), but it definitely helps you to stand out in the crowd. This dress is made with lace (a popular trend for this year) in a relaxed sheath silhouette, which allows you to indulge yourself with a little bit more hors d’oeuvres without feeling the tightness around your waist.

Kay Unger New York - Illusion Lace Cocktail Dress


ML Monique Lhuiller – Sleeveless Belted Party Dress ($498)  If you want a dress that brightens up your complection at night, this Sleeveless Belted Party Dress in blue is perfect. The design also aims to flatter your figure and show off sexy shoulders.

ML Monique Lhuiller Sleeveless Belted Party Dress


Naeem Khan – High-Neck Ray-Beaded Cocktail Dress ($6,500)  It goes without saying, this light Naeem Khan dress with silver beads all over is a classic and elegant piece. It’s perfect for any evening occasion.

Naeem Khan – High-Neck Ray-Beaded Cocktail Dress


Oscar de la Renta – Scoop-Neck Belted Lace Dress ($2,890, now on  sale for $1,011)  I am very fond of Oscar de la Renta dresses. I think they are very elegant, but often too special for ordinary parties. However, I think this Scoop-Neck Belted Lace Dress is classic and ideal for most holiday occasions.

Oscar de la Renta – Scoop-Neck Belted Lace Dress


Print is the Fashion Trend for Spring 2013

One of the essential fashion trends for the Spring is print. Prints can be spotted on handbags, clothes, shoes, and jewelry. Popular prints include animal prints (such as leopard and snakeskin), floral prints, and graphic arts.

Many designers, such as Dolce & Gabanna, Marc Jacobs, Oscar dela Renta, Roberto Cavalli, and Stella McCartney, have launched their unique print items for this season.

When it comes to wearing a print, it’s better to minimize the number of the print items on you. Do not wear the print head-to-toe. For example, if you are wearing a snakeskin print dress, don’t pair it with print shoe or handbag. Instead, pair the dress with a mono-tone accessory, such as black pump or light colored handbag. If you want to wear a print shoe, avoid wearing eye-catching clothes that will divert attention away from your shoe. In another words, the print shoe is the focus and rest of your outfit becomes the accessories.

Below are a few examples of the prints launched for the Spring.


Leopard Print

The Marc Jacob belted leopard-print dress is a classic. (left) The black belt and sleeves add the balance to the leopard pattern. The dress by Roberto Cavalli is very sexy. (right)  The leopard print in the middle blends well in the mixed print. And the silk material makes the dress stand out.

Marc Jacobs – Belted Leopard-Print Dress $895

Roberto Cavalli – Mixed-Print Dress & Metallic Belt $5,260


 Snakeskin Print

I really like the Python print dress by Gucci (left). The mixture of green and dark snakeskin makes it a sexy dress for Spring. This Valentino snakeskin bag (left) reminds me of a leopard bag Valentino made for Fall. They are equally nice in an eye-catching way.

Gucci – Light Green Jacquard Python Motif Tunic Dress $2,250

Valentino – Rockstud Medium Snakeskin Tote Bag, Ivory $4,695


Floral Print

Floral print is in for every Spring. The dress by Versace (left) is ideal for a night out. The gorgeous floral python platform by Jimmy Choo (right) is perfect for the season. I’d pair it with a simple white dress, such as Herve Legaer’s Cap-Sleeve Bandage Dress to show off the floral print on this shoe.

Versace – Cutout-Waist Floral Dress $2,250

Jimmy Choo – Lola Floral Python Platform Pump $1,001 (original $1,495)


CUSP by Neiman Marcus Trend Show

CUSP Trend Show

CUSP (by Neiman Marcus) is a recently-created contemporary store that offers new and well-known designers’ products. I attended a CUSP launch party last week and watched the trend show at Neiman Marcus. The event started with light appetizers and cocktail drinks (such as blueberry mojito and beer in mini mugs). The event was followed by the show with fashion models on the runway in gorgeous outfits.

During the trend show I saw many clothes, shoes, and bags in orange (the new neutral) and blue. Two essential elements for this Spring, prints and laces, were also been spotted throughout the show. Among all the items I saw during the event, I have many favorite picks. Listed below are six examples that especially caught my attention.


Black jacket and pump go well with anything

Black is the basic element in every season. You can pull it off with almost anything such as this jacket and pump.

Rebecca Taylor – Tweed Jacket (left)

Christian Louboutin Fifi Spikes Red Sole Pump in Black (right)


Patterns and prints are still in vogue

Diane von Furstenberg – Fleurette Printed Dress (left)

Stella McCartney – Falabella Snake-Print Foldover Clutch Bag, Fuchsia (right)


Orange is the new neutral color for Sping 2013

Manolo Blahnik –BB Suede High-Hell Pump, Orange (left)

Stella McCartney – Falabella Fold-Over Leopard-Canvas Tote Bag (right)


The models wore the orange jacket with the gold finge sandal. This combination brings out the best of each item.

Alice + Olivia – Cropped Zipper Jacket (left)

B Brian Atwood – Metal Fringe Back-Zip Sandal, Gold (right)


Blue makes a great wardrobe transition from Winter to Spring

The purple suede sandal complements the A-line dress in navy to complete a perfect Spring outfit.

Rebecca Taylor – Frayed Fit-and-Flare Dress in Navy (left)

B Brian Atwood – Cutout Suede Sandal, Purple (right) On sale for $340


Lace is a must-have for Spring 2013

This look showcases why lace is an important element of this season. Who can say “no” to such a fashionable look?

Diane von Furstenberg – Lace Dress with Semi-Sheer-Yoko (left)

Valentino – Floral Lace Cutout Shoulder Bag, Pop Fuchsia (right)


Orange is the New Neutral for Spring 2013

Orange has always been one of my all-time favorite colors. I love clothes and accessories in orange regardless of what season it is. In Fall and Winter I love to pair orange with shades of brown, and in Spring and Summer I like to pair orange with lighter colors. I am delighted to see that orange will be a great base color this season to match with almost any color to create an eye-catching outfit. I picked some of my favorite items in the new neutral color for you to consider.


Handbags

Fendi 2Jours Elite Leather Shopper

2Jours Elite is one of Fendi’s iconic bags. This bag in orange is perfect for day and night.

Buy Fendi 2Jours Elite Leather Shopper from Neiman Marcus

Louis Vuitton Alma PM in Epi

Louis Vuitton’s Alma PM is one of my all-time favorite bags. This bag in Epi reminds me of the orange Alma PM Louis Vuitton launched in Monogram Vernis for last Spring. They are both nice.

Visit Louis Vuitton Website

Salvatore Ferragamo Icona Gancini Wallet

This wallet in lava (a new color launched for spring) is a perfect accessory for many handbags, such as Saint Laurent Cabas Medium Y Ligne Tote Bag in Natural and Valentino Rockstud Double Handle Tote Bag in Beige.

Buy Salvatore Ferragamo Icona Gancini Wallet from Neiman Marcus


Shoes

Jimmy Choo Abel in Tangerine

This pair of shoes is great for both day and night. It looks good with a pair of white pants during the day and a pair of dark jeans or black pants in the evening.

Buy Jimmy Choo Abel

Prada Studded Slingback Sandal

Studded shoes will stay in vogue until at least this Spring 2013. This pair of orange studded sandals will look great with dresses such as Bustier-Detail Eyelet Dress from Burberry Brit.Buy Prada Studded Slingback Sandal from Neiman Marcus

Rene Caovilla Crystal-Thong Sandal

Rene Caovilla shoes have become some of my new favorites. This sandal with the crystals on the orange strap is perfect to take you from day to a casual night. I’d pair it with Diane von Furstenberg CeeCee Enamel Beading Dress.

Buy Rene Caovilla Crystal-Thong Sandal from Neiman Marcus


Clothes

Diane von Furstenberg CeeCee Enamel Beading Dress

I like the bauble-embellished neckline. It makes this simple dress look elegant. I’d wear it with the Rene Caovilla Crystal-Thong Sandal.

Buy Diane von Furstenberg CeeCee Enamel Beading Dress from Neiman Marcus

Phoebe Couture Colorblack Lace Overlay Dress

Although the color of this dress is called ‘coral multi”, in my opinion I think the color on the top portion of the dress is very close to an orange shade. I like the contrast with pink color. Another nice thing about this dress is that it’s made of lace, which is in for Spring.

Buy Phoebe Couture Colorblack Lace Overlay Dress from Neiman Marcus


Stock Up Wardrobe with Party Dresses

After the December holidays, stores tend to put more items on sale, especially clothes, handbags, and shoes. This makes January one of the best times to shop for party dresses with great discounts (50% – 70%). You can search for items that you liked, but weren’t able to get during the holidays. Or you can stock up your closet with clothes for your upcoming events. Most of my friends’ birthdays are in February, which means I will have to get more dresses for all these birthday events.

If you want to take advantage of the sales to add some dresses to your wardrobe, I’d suggest you to go with black. Clothes in black are generally the most flattering. They are good for women at any age and can be worn for just about any occasion. Below are my suggestions for dresses that are ideal for occasions/parties and won’t go out of style anytime soon. They are listed in four styles.


Chic & Refined

These dresses are ideal for business casual events. You can wear them from day (for work) to night (for dinner).

Alice + Olivia Osie Leather-Trim Dress (left) $237 (original $396)

Armani Collezioni Pailette-Embellished Drape-Back Dress (right) $1,048 ($2,995)


Feminine & Classic

The sheer lace and the metallic golden embroidery on the Dolce & Gabbana dress (left) and the satin top and matte skirt on the Marc Jacobs dress (right) make these dresses classical elegance pieces. They are ideal for any formal event.

Dolce & Gabbana- Long-Sleeve Embroidered Lace Dress (left) $4,165 (original $11,900)

Marc Jacobs-BG 111th Anniversary Ruffled Cap-Sleeve Dress (right) (Limited-edition) $625 (originally $2,500)


Flirty & Fresh

Dresses in this category are designed in a girle style with a polished materials, such as metalic fabric or laces. They are ideal for occasions such as birthday parties.

DKNY-Metalic Lace Dress Peplum Dress (left) $213 (original $355)

J. Medel-Dress with Lace Bodice (right) $1,393 (original $3,980)


Simple & Sexy

Wearing these dresses with strappy heels will make you look sexy instantly. No additional jewelry is necessary.

Aidan Mattox-Beaded Illusion-Neck Dress (left) $103 (original $295)

Sue Wong-Black and Nude Lace Beaded Flower Applique Strapless Dress (right) $161.85 (original $415)


Elizabeth and James ‘Rex’ Sequin Blazer, $175 (original $595)

In additional to the party dresses listed above, this blazer is a must-have for a night out with dark skinny jeans. The sequin will add the accent to your outfit.

Elizabeth and James Rex Sequin Blazer


If you are looking for more suggestions on dresses for special events, see The Ten Best Dresses for Evening.

New: Saint Laurent at NET-A-PORTER

The Ten Best Holiday Dresses

Additional links:
The Ten Best Holiday Dresses for 2014
The Ten Best Holiday Dresses for 2013


December is always the busiest month for holiday events. Are you still looking for the dress to wear for your next holiday party? Here are my top ten picks, listed based by the designer name in alphabetical order. Four of them are currently on sale (40-50% off)!


Aidan Mattox – Cold-Shoulder Sequined Cocktail Dress – Red is one of the essential colors for holiday dresses. This is a contemporary design with a twist of sparkling elements. The cutout shoulders are perfect if you want a dress with a sophisticated touch.

Buy Aidan Mattox – Cold-Shoulder Sequined Cocktail Dress


Alice + Olivia – Alicia Sequined Silk Dress – This long sleeves dress with allover sequins embellishment and exposed back zip is classic with a hint of sexy for any holiday party. This is good for women of any age. (50% off)

Buy Alice + Olivia – Alicia Sequined Silk Dress


BCBG MAXAZRIA – Woven Strapless Dress –  This strapless dress comes with straps that can be hidden or exposed. It has ruffled appliqué on a skirt made up of three shades. I think it’s a fun and versatile dress for women in their 20s.

Buy BCBG MAXAZRIA – Woven Strapless Dress


DKNY – Sleeveless Lace Sheath Dress – I like the sheer lace overlay on this dress and its scalloped hem. I also love the green color, which is one of the fall’s most popular hues. (40% off)

Buy DKNY – Sleeveless Lace Sheath Dress


Monique Lhuillier – Sleeveless Beaded Gown This is a formal dress I can’t resist including on my list. I love the red color (which is my favorite), deep V neckline, and the beaded chiffon. The dress makes any women sexy instantly.

Buy Monique Lhuillier – Sleeveless Beaded Gown


Notte by Marchesa – Strapless Sequined Cocktail Dress – This strapless sequined dress is unique not only because it has sweetheart neckline but also because the contrast of the non-sequins material on side and back makes the dress even more elegant.

Buy Notte by Marchesa – Strapless Sequined Cocktail Dress


Robert Rodriguez NM+Target Fit-and-Flare Lace Dress Don’t miss out this lavish lace dress with A-line skirt and scalloped hem. How often do you find a dress made by Robert Rodriguez at such a low price ($99)? (The answer is rarely!)

Robert Rodriguez NM+Target Fit-and-Flare Lace Dress


Rachel Zoe Irena Sequined Shift Dress This sequined chiffon dress with beaded boat neckline helps to show off the collarbone and shoulders in a subtle way. It’s a great dress for slim and tall women.

Buy Rachel Zoe – Irena Sequined Shift Dress


Theia – Sequined Deco Gown I love this formal dress with allover sequins in a chevron pattern. Whoever wears this to a formal holiday event would take the spotlight upon her entrance. This dress is what glamour is all about.

Buy Theia – Sequined Deco Gown


Theia – Sequined Sheath Dress The design of the dress might be typical for cocktail dresses, but the blue sequins really make the dress stand out in a crowd. It’s too gorgeous to be missed. (40% off)

Buy Theia – Sequined Sheath Dress


Are you looking for the perfect shoes to go with your dress? See The Ten Best Shoes for Holidays and Evening.