Monday, December 5, 2011

Bridesmaids Dress for a Holiday Party?!? Yes, You Can!


Tis the season ladies...Holiday parties are in full swing, and if all that is keeping you from your dream dress, is free time and excess funds...then I may have just the tip for you.

Dig in the back of your closet, yank out your collection of bridesmaids frocks, and put on your thinking cap. Let's be honest- there are so many gowns that are offered right now from amazing designers that are adorable enough for any soiree, but if you simply cannot visualize wearing these gowns without wanting to pair them with matching shoes and holding a cluster of flowers, then maybe we can "deconstruct" a dress together.

Here are a couple of tidbits that could bring your taffeta number to the next level....

Seek out a seamstress.
Not that Monique Lhuillier or Amsale needs styling tips on their designs, but maybe a floor length chiffon skirt hides your great gams, and the only thing keeping you from your "go to gown", is too much fabric......no problem! Simply contact an experienced seamstress, and let her know how much leg you love to show, and there you go....a custom cut, designer gown collaboration made just for you!


Here are two great examples of Amsale bridesmaids dresses in both the longer and shorter version.


Thinking about busting your leather leggings for a night out? Here is another option for you to ponder when taking these gowns for a makeover. How would one of these dresses look as a top?? Bustiers are big, big, big, and if you have a strapless gown with a prominent join line at the waist and exposed boning, then you already have a designer piece hanging in your closet, and you just don't know it!! Take it to your seamstress and see what can be done. If you decide to cut the whole skirt off, you need to make sure to bring your pants with you for the fitting. Unless you want to expose your midriff, make sure the top is cut long enough. Don't forget that peplums are really in right now too, so if your bm dress has a full skirt with box pleats, leaving a few inches of the skirt would create you this adorable look in just a few nips and tucks.

This great Lazaro gown has a super fashionable corset top.

These Watters, Lazaro, and Monique Lhuillier bridesmaids dresses could make adorable peplum tops when given to the right seamstress.

Add a piece from your own wardrobe.
If you think that your boss might not appreciate the slightly revealing sweetheart neckline, or that he might appreciate it a little too much, the only thing that these dresses need is the addition of a cardigan. 1950's inspirations are everywhere in fashion, and there is nothing classier than a cute, and fitted cardi. There are some super cute ones out there adorned with jewel accents and lace that would totally change the look of a strapless bridesmaids dress, and it will keep you warm and toasty until the merry drinks kick it. ;)

Another way to add an extra element and texture to a former bridal party frock is adding some great tights. Add a brightly colored pair with a neutral dress, or a lace pattern with an LBD. Make your look as funky and festive as you are.

All of these Lazaro gowns would be super cute paired with a cashmere cardigan, lace leggings...or both!!

Style it YOUR way.
It's perfectly proper for a bride to request that her party wear specific jewelry to complete the look that she is going for on her big day, but if you want to break out your biggest and baddest statement pieces, then do it! You will be shocked how much this will change the whole feel of the ensemble.
These Kendra Scott pieces would make a great statement with any open neckline dress.

Here is your chance. Did you think that the best way to accentuate the one shoulder neckline would have been with a cool fishtail braid off to the side?? Well, just do it then. Give it your own flavor, and wear it proud.

Let's be real, there will always be those dresses that you could not even fathom wearing again...whether it be the style, cut, or color.But, with that being said, many gowns have been created with the best fabric, boning and classic style that deserve to be incorporated into a stylish wardrobe. With a couple of personal touches and creative collaborations, you could have a new go-to look!

Happy Holidays!!

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