1. Opulence Dress ($395) // 2. DAY Birger et Mikkelsen Lace Blouse ($220) and Rebecca Taylor Nail Head Tee ($245) // 3. Hive & Honey Spike Earring ($14) // 4. DKNY Faux Fur Vest ($207) // 5. Zara Peplum Skirt ($80) // 6. Midnight Confessions Nail and Lip Set ($38)
Mary J. Blige may sing about No More Drama, but I’m feeling the need for some–not in my life, in my wardrobe.
One. How phenomenal is this brocade dress from All Saints? Midnight navy with metallic accents and a structured shape that looks carved from stone. I love it. And if navy isn’t your thing, it also comes in an equally stunning emerald green.
All Saints has some amazing cocktail dresses this season. If you’re looking for something little and black, the Kaya dress is perfect. And if you want high drama, the sequin collar on the Bolshevik dress is not to be missed.
Two. I love the lace detail on this blouse, it’s so feminine. Want a similar look in a lower price point? This blouse has black lace shoulders with ivory silk for under-$200 and this sleeveless blouse with lace and a scallop collar is $118.
Need to go lower? This pretty eyelash lace blouse is just $30.
As for the nail head tee, it brings just the right amount of edge without being over the top. This blouse from Piperlime has a nail head studded collar for under-$100. And just because I couldn’t resist, this L’Agence blouse has nailheads and an open back. Talk about drama!
Three. These earrings are fantastic. Whether you want to add a bit of rocker chic or just draw attention to your pretty face, they’re the perfect choice. And for $14, no one needs to miss out.
Four. I’m usually opposed to faux fur, but lately, I’ve been craving a faux fur vest. I wanted one last year too, but I set aside those feelings believing that the trend wouldn’t last. Yet, here the vest are again this season.
I chose this long vest from DKNY because it’s the perfect length for belting. I also like the mix of colors, makes it a bit more versatile. I’d probably wear it belted over a sweaterdress or with skinny jeans and a printed blouse. When I’m cold, I’ll throw on a cowl neck sweater.
Feeling the faux fur, but not the price? This dark brown faux mink is $139 and this grey one is just under-$100.
Five. I bought this skirt last month, and I adore it. The green color has just the right amount of black sheen underneath so that it pairs perfectly with black tights. And since the peplum is asymmetrical, pear shaped girls (like me) can wear it without creating the illusion that you have to rear ends.
Six. As we look forward to the holiday season, we need to start thinking about holiday party attire. No one wants to be the girl searching for a dress at noon the day of the fete. This nail polish and lipstick set is perfect for the holiday season with a deep ruby color that will flatter most skin tones.
Belle – a question about that Zara skirt, and really Zara in general. How is the quality? I think so many pieces from Zara are so cute but I've never purchased anything from them because I worry about the quality and I don't live close enough to a Zara actually check the clothes out in person. $80 is too much for me to spend if it's going to be Forever 21 level clothes, just with more style.
Hi Belle!
Great post — had a quick question about your opinion for leather jackets. I've been searching for a classic one and was wondering if you had any suggestions?
Thanks so much!
Jamie: I own several Zara pieces, I've never had a lemon. The quality is about as good as Banana Republic.
Hey Belle — I'd love to see a post about your wardrobe: how many pieces do you have? Do you think as “capsules” or does everything work with everying, work and play? What are your thoughts on where to spend and where to save?
i LOVE that peplum skirt! adorable!
Jamie– I don't shop at Zara too frequently, but all of the pieces I've purchased from the store have held up really well. I have two fairly unique black skirts from Zara that I purchased back in 2009. I wear each of them at least once or twice a month, and they're both in really good condition. I did buy an inexpensive light sweater once (maybe $30 max) that didn't hold up very well… though that was probably a laundry error on my end!
I got a faux fur vest last year for Christmas and while it's really warm and comfy I feel like I look like Mariah Carey every time I wear it… If you end up getting one please do a styling post for them!
Hi Belle,
I love the Zara peplum skirt and held off purchasing because I am struggling with a top. Would you mind sharing how you paired a top with the skirt? I purchased the military style dark green dress and its awesome but not so awesome on my body type.
Many thanks.