Cecilia

Speaking of LBDs, my friend Cecilia is attending a wedding later this month and selected this adorable dress from Gap maternity for the occasion. Pleated sleeves top off this wardrobe staple. If I ever have a baby bump, I know who I'm going to for borrowed maternity clothes!

She also got it for a steal!

Trendy exposed zipper back detail

She had chosen wine-colored shoes & patterned tights to set the tone for accessories, so we completed the outfit together:

Tights & shoes now paired with mauve pearl
& ribbon necklace. 

Here is the finished product with possible variation:

...Or subtract the black clutch, add crimson
purse. It's also a patent finish [like the shoes]
and is in the same color family as the shoes
and necklace. It offers a bit more contrast
without straying away from the look altogether.

We chose a blazer instead of a cardigan
to go over the dress so that the shoulders
of the dress wouldn't appear too broad.
This heavier material won't be compromised
over the dress. The black clutch with bugle
bead detail keeps in step with the
ensemble while adding a hint of shimmer.