Belle,

I could really use your help.  I am going to a friend’s wedding this summer, and my ex-bf will be there.  It’s been well over a year since we last saw each other.  While I am not hoping for a reunion, I do, however, want him to hate that he ever let this good thing go (devilish smile).  I am in need of a dress that is not so sexy that it says “trying too hard” and outshines the bride, yet I want my trim and toned figured to be accentuated by a dress that is chic, sophisticated and subtly seductive.  The weather will be hot, and although the wedding will be held indoors in the early evening, showing my legs is a must.  I have just one stipulation: I don’t want to spend a ton of money, at least not more than $200.  Please. Help. Me.

Sincerely,

In need of fashion advice

While I don’t want to encourage the creation of jealousy, I think every woman can understand wanting to give the hated ex something to think about on his lonely drive home from the reception site.   As Miss M always says, “Doing well is the best revenge.”  Here are some ideas for fabulous dresses for a summer wedding.

I’ve mentioned this before, but I am a huge fan of Rent the Runway.  The company allows you to rent a designer dress (Jason Wu, Prabal Gurung, etc.)for a very reasonable fee and then return it after your event.  They also allow an amazing amount of flexibility if you need to order a different size, you want to order two different dresses to try and return the other one, or your dress doesn’t fit.  I have had great luck with this company and they have great customer service.  

If you want to join RTR, and you don’t want to take a seat on the waiting list, visit the GWU section of the site for an automatic invite.  I met these girls a few weeks back and they are adorable.

If renting a dress doesn’t appeal to you, there are two things that you should consider when choosing a dress that you need to make an impact.  The first is color, and the second is fit. 

Bright colors naturally draw attention to the person wearing them.  While wearing red to a wedding is considered faux pas by some, choosing another impactful hue like canary yellow, coral, emerald green or royal blue is sure to catch someone’s eye.  So whatever you do, do not wear black. 

Tiered Bustier Dress (BCBG, $228)

This bright coral dress from BCBG has a sweetheart neckline that will accentuate the shoulders and arms and lift even the smallest cleavage. 

If you think that a bright color might distract from the bride and look like you’re trying too hard, you should choose one of the many body conscious dresses on the market. 

FCUK Spring Ribbon Dress (Nordstrom, $168)

This dress has a muted hue, but its banded styling will hug the curves in all the right places.  The closed back and wide shoulder straps will also allow you to wear the push up bra of your choice.

Also, no matter which dress you choose, make sure that your skin is in shape for summer.  Whatever money you save on the dress should be applied to an exfoliating body treatment and either a spray tan (Hollywood Tans on D Street) or a real tan.  You should also invest in a good moisturizer, I like the Vaseline brand.  Having soft, touchable, glowing skin is just as important as having the right dress.

Good luck, and have fun.  Just remember, a little jealousy goes a long way.