Into everyone's life a black tie event must fall. No matter how many times I vow never again to set foot at some opening du jour, for various reasons, I ultimately hear the siren call of the looming singing or dancing extravaganza, and succumb to the dog and pony show. Then comes the obligatory search for the holy grail: the perfect stunning frock I won't suffocate in, no one else will be wearing (shudder), and which I can hopefully recycle down the road. Sigh. Of course even if one isn't planning for an upscale soiree in the near future, it can't hurt to have a gown on hand just in case, much like every dude should have a tuxedo lurking in his closet. In every series of collections, from resort to fall winter, gowns and cocktail frocks flourish, in all versions, from ostentatious opulence to a more spartan sensibility. The wonderful thing about fashion these days is that pretty much anything goes. There are big and bold festooned tulle concoctions for the Scarlett O'Hara contingent, more streamlined sheaths, and of course corseted wonders with deep necks for the cleavage patrol. With decorum always in mind, feel free to wear a full on ball gown, knee length cocktail dress, or hell, even a tuxedo to the next Opera or Ballet opening, or any other tony affair. If your sensibilities and pocket book crave paired down options, you can always jazz the most simple of dresses up with an outrageous pair of shoes or jewelry. And if you happen to stumble upon a fabulous long skirt, say in taffeta, and run out of shekels before your outfit can be completed, just pair with a fitted silk T-shirt! Here I have pillaged the upcoming Resort collections which are currently making their way to your local beacons of fashion. The spectrum of regalia is fit for the debutante, the Gala chair, the Hollywood glamor puss, and the seductress….the usual gown masters are on hand along with some unexpected entrants into the festive finery brigade.
ADAM LIPPES
ALBERTA FERRETTI
ANDREW GN
The man responsible for some of the finest jackets outside of Chanel delivers sweet, with floral cloque in a host of pastels, and sumptuous old world glamorous in dusty rose satin. Two of my personal favorites.
ANTONIO BERARDI
Sort of an expensive slip, but runway ready and sizzling hot nonetheless!
ANTONIO MARRAS
BADGLEY MISCHKA
CAROLINA HERRERA
CHANEL
Chanel, ALWAYS the right answer no matter where you might find yourself, at a tented dinner with the doyennes of society, with the Queen of England, or on the red carpet. And when the champagne is no longer flowing, the chandeliers out, and the red carpet rolled up, the separates can be funked up with jeans and boots for any random excursion or occasion. Any Chanel jacket is a timeless best friend.
CHRISTIAN DIOR
CHRISTIAN SIRIANO
This outstanding entry is spectacular for the color alone. The silhouette is dramatic and feminine but not annoyingly fussy. Bravo.
This black number is the perfect gown! No fuss, no muss, dress it up with bold Bulgari jewelry and embellished stilettos. This gets the Audrey Hepburn seal of approval!
Oh dear Lord, I've died and gone to heaven! I have never seen SO many rhinestones on anything, even in my dreams! As far as I'm concerned, more is often better! You might blind the musicians or singers if you're anywhere near the stage at the Opera or Symphony, but, oh well…...
DENNIS BASSO
Known for his furs, his gown entries are every bit the elegant show stoppers as well.
DSQUARED2
Channel Katherine Hepburn and wear a Tuxedo, maybe in red brocade. Wear with strappy sandals or stilettos.
ELIE SAAB
ERDEM
For a spring ball, sweet and feminine in pastel cloque.
The ruffle fest is a nice option to the usual sweet or embellished frock, less serioso. Just flamboyant enough.
GILES
JENNY PACKHAM
One might also pair this with a jewel adorned bolero!
J MENDEL
LANVIN
The bohemian influence permeates even the gowns these days, but Lanvin keeps it dramatic and elegant.
MARC JACOBS
Sequins to infinity….paired Christmas frocks, with a flapper vibe.
MARCHESA
MONIQUE LHUILLIER
Modern, just a bit theatrical and unique in an engaging raspberry color.
RED carpet wonders….
NAEEM KHAN
NINA RICCI
OSCAR DE LA RENTA
One will certainly garner attention in this showstopper by the iconic gown maker. Worth it for the vibrant color alone!
RALPH LAUREN
The spartan yet elegant contingent.
RALPH RUCCI
REEM ACRA
Duchesse satin, silk gazar in bubblegum pink, and a boatload of tulle…….what more could you want?
TSUMORI CHISATO
Beach whimsy!
VALENTINO
Some of THE most ravishing intricate gowns gracing the runways or editorial spreads, with the iconic diaphanous entries fit for a forrest princess, and the opulent whimsical pieces amalgamating embroidery, embellishments and tulle as you've never seen it. The endless stream of creatures, butterflies, birds, primates, and floral motifs only add to the magic. (But beware, $$$$$$$).
VERSACE
Classic Versace, black, form fitting, modern, with a l o n g zipper for allure potential, and the bondage gladiator sandals for the cherry on top.
ZAC POSEN
Often architectural, always figure flattering and dramatic. Check out that unique corset effect! This calls for audacious bijoux and some brightly colored Manolo's as contrast to the taupe! Think pink!
ZUHAIR MURAD
The aquatic touch for the upscale beach or yacht festivities, Miami Beach or the South of France, maybe?
Anyone can be Cinderella for a night……...
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