I couldn't resist. After pulling my New Year's Eve outfit from the closet last night, I started to get excited about dressing up tomorrow night to ring in 2009 (and hopefully banishing all the burdens that 2008 brought—at least for a few hours.)
Even though Ginger and I are staying in this New Year's Eve and have decided to host a "retro" fondue and bubbly dinner for a few good friends instead, that doesn't mean a hostess shouldn't look her hottest. (I'm no Donna Reed, but I do like her style.)
On that note, check out these four great Little Black Dresses for less than $40, three of which you can run out and buy on your lunch break or before happy hour. There's a great assortment of styles for every body shape and sensibility, and plenty of room leftover in the budget for adding personal flare with accessories.
Happy shopping!
Isaac Mizrahi Party Frock in Cotton Sateen, $31.49 (Target)
This is the perfect little dress to don when playing Betty Draper. It has a great late 50s, early 60s happy housewife feel, and the conservative cut both creates a waist and accentuates curves while providing the best backdrop for showcasing pearls. As Target's stylist has done here, we love this look with textured, feminine ballet flats. Apron not required.
Matty M. Racerback Babydoll Dress with Pockets in Silk Charmeuse, $36.98 (SmartBargains.com)
Super sexy and trendy at the same time, this sheath features a plunging V-neck and details that were a huge hit in 2008 fashion: Grecian details (the twisted black and silver rope straps); pockets on the skirt; and a late addition to the party this fall, the return of the racerback. We wouldn't have styled it with 30s-inspired peep-toe booties and tights, however. Try sultry, sheer black nylons and a more edgy boot or patent pump, or if weather allows, go bare legged with sparkly silver strappy sandals.
Sparkly One-Shoulder Bias-Cut Shift with Rosette in Chiffon, $11.99 (Forever 21)
Capitalizing on the one-shoulder gown trend made so popular this year by Hollywood elite, this cocktail dress from Forever 21 made the list mostly due to price. At less than $15, this sweet little number leaves plenty of room in the budget for not just accessories but dinner, bubbly, and more.
Strapless Burnout Velvet Cocktail Dress with Exposed Back Zipper, $34.99 (Charlotte Russe)
My personal favorite (and the inspiration for this post), this little number pulls together my favorite mix of 2008: vintage elegance and edginess. The burnout velvet is slightly Victorian in feeling, soft and supple in texture, and paired with a super trendy and chic exposed back zipper (not shown), the look is the perfect combination of prim and punk. Love, love, love!
What are your favorite Little Black Dress looks for less of 2008? Share them with us by posting a comment!
Love the LBD piece, a great way to make every lady feel like, well - a lady while ringing in the new year. Who doesn't want to channel a little Audrey whilst sipping bubbly and watching the ball drop. Happy New Year Shoestring-ers!
Posted by: Morgan C. | December 30, 2008 at 04:13 PM
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Posted by: flower girl dress patterns | April 17, 2009 at 01:40 AM