Tag Archives: bright colors

Fit & Flare

Fit and flare dresses are everywhere and everything this summer.  There are many reasons that this silhouette is so popular and has made its way into everyone’s closets.  The first being that it is flattering for all body types.  The tight to exaggerated lines of the dress give the illusion of a pin up figure.  The silhouette is also fun and flirty, and because of the fullness of the skirt the hemlines tend to be longer making it appropriate for all occasions.  I wore the dress featured in this post to a bridal shower (these pics were taken after the bridal shower) and also wear it work all the time.  I hesitate to call this flattering and retro shape a trend, because in reality it is more of a wardrobe staple that should be in everyones closets.

fit & flare

Dress: H&M (similar here), Shoes: Nine West (similar-ish here)

The key to a successful fit & flare dress is in the name, fit!  Make sure it is tight enough on top so the flare is more drastic.

The key to a successful fit & flare dress is in the name, fit! Make sure it is tight enough on top so the flare is more drastic.

fit & flare

Try bold colors and prints for the summer.

fit & flare

The flare is perfect for hot summer days!

fit & flare

Smiling through the heat.

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Wedding Guest Fashion: Formal & Cocktail

I think it is fair to say that the most common dress code for weddings is formal or cocktail attire therefore today’s Spring/Summer Wedding Guest Dress for Success Guide is dedicated to the broad spectrum that is formal wedding wear.  Formal is wonderful because you can go short or long (and you know how much I love long).  Formal is of course a step down from black tie and lends itself to many different styles, silhouettes, colors and fabrics.  And cocktail is a slight step below formal.  However, when experimenting with fabrics and volumes always be mindful of the location of the wedding and if it is indoor or outdoor.  Take it from someone who tends to overheat quickly, the last thing you want is to be stuck outside in an oppressively heavy dress.  With that said play around and find what works best for you, your body type, the venue, and make sure your shoes are comfortable enough to dance the night away in.

A very special thank you to my fabulous collaborators that made this post possible!  Thank you Carine’s Bridal Atelier for providing the gorgeous gowns, Charm & Fornash for the flawless baubles, and Drybar for the beautiful blow out!

Formal

Dress: Marchesa (c/o Carine’s Bridal), Jewels: Charm Georgetown & Fornash, Hair: Drybar

Marchesa Garden of Glam

One of the most amazing things about spring/summer wear is that brights are always in. Make sure that one aspect of your ensemble is a true stand out.

Marchesa

Just because the dress is bold does not mean you have to shy away from accessories and bling!

Marchesa wedding wear

The exaggerated fan sleeve is my absolute favorite! Because there are a lot of components to the dress a more conservative hemline is crucial.

Cocktail wedding wear

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