If you’re invited to a gala cocktail party, there’s no need to panic and go through the “I don’t have anything to wear!” routine. You’ll be amazed with what you can do with a single LBD which may already reside in your closet. You’ll be amazed to see how many different outfits can be made with one, carefully chosen dress. With so many of us reluctant to spend on luxuries, a new fashion trend has developed. You accessorize that dress with belts, jewelry, stockings, handbags and shoes that take advantage of the versatility of that classically styled dress to produce a number of looks, suited to all sorts of party events. This trend is catching on fast – the new chic in cocktail dress costumes.
If, after going through your closet, you still don’t find anything suitable, go ahead and buy something new. Choose your dress carefully, keeping in mind the points that make this one cocktail dress multi-task and morph from an opening at the ballet to a more demure, dressed down version for a small gathering of friends at home.
The quintessential, most versatile of cocktail dress picks has all of the following characteristics. The cut should be relatively simple, without frilly ruffles, pleats or other fussy detailing, such as distinctive gold buttons. Complicated styles and detailing takes away from the versatility you can achieve with a simple and classic style. Buttons, trims, ruffles and such mark that dress as one that will certainly be recognized next time you wear it! Sleeveless cocktail dresses are best. When you attend a cocktail party or gala, you usually wear a jacket or coat, so warmth isn’t an issue in the cold months and your dress works well on its own in summer. A v-neckline, with a somewhat daring plunge, can be morphed with a jeweled pin for a more sedate neckline, whereas a round neckline remains a round neckline. Any variation of the A-line allows you to wear it cinched in with a number of belt styles, or just as it is, with a loose-fitting waistline. A dress that’s cut on the bias has a very figure flattering effect and drapes nicely at the hemline. The hemline should be just below the knee. Black is the way to go in color.
Now, when you’ve found a cocktail dress with many of these sterling attributes, here are some ways to create stunning outfits that no one would ever guess are based on the same garment.
Strings of sparkling, jeweled necklaces (real or costume), matched up with earrings and perhaps a delicate bracelet or two creates a festive look suited to sophisticated, elegant events. Simple gold chains, gold earrings with a bit of glitz and shimmery gold metallic-thread stockings, worn with faux gold high heels and gold ribbons spiraling up your calves looks great at an office party style of event.
When you accessorize your cocktail dress, stick with a theme. For example, weather permitting, a gauzy silk scarf that’s white and worn as a stole, looks good with a string of pearls and a belt of silver and clear-toned glass stones. Shoes might be silver, or a black shoe that’s embellished with pearl show ornaments. The idea is to have the accessories hang together, without being perfectly matched.
Scarves and handbags offer many other ways to make your LBD multi-task. Bracelets and rings should be used judiciously, as these can add a lot of punch and sparkle to your costume. You want to avoid looking ‘overdone’.
Join the millions of women now taking this chic cocktail dress strategy to heart. You’ll be the star of any cocktail party event!
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