Marchesa - 'if money was no object...'

If money was no object I'd be buying this cocktail dress immediately. I wouldn't flinch, without thinking twice my card details would be quickly filled out, and dress purchased. I'd have to resist the urge to sit by the postbox until the garment arrived, and if the option exists to pay for next day delivery you can bet I'd use it. 

I crave to see this dress in movement, it looks as though it would flow beautifully; each wave of the skirt complimenting the next. 

Floral-appliqued Lace and Silk-organza Mini Dress

The ivory/beige chantilly lace, contrast with black silk organza is simply stunning, and the light  bouncing off the fabric accentuates every curve and wave of the skirt.

Net-a-porter.com Editors Note:

'For Spring '16, Marchesa was inspired by the grace and lightness of birds in flight. This runway dress has a delicate chantilly lace yoke and is finished with petal appliques that appear to float over the bodice. The satin-trimmed nipped waist creates a feminine silhouette and is balanced by a voluminously tiered silk-organza skirt. Style yours with a simple clutch and sandals.'

Upon reading the description I can see where the inspiration comes from; it has been beautifully interpreted and reflected in the design. The flowing skirt and ruffled feather like yoke (similar to a birds fluffy breast) give a feeling of weightlessness; I imagine you'd feel cloud high in a dress like this.

Available at net-a-porter.com

RRP £4.230

Styled here with: The Row Clutch, Jimmy Choo Sandals, Kenneth Jay Lane Ring

Although I like the ring, it's dramatic yet elegant, as it catches the eye without detracting from the center piece - the dress. I would opt for a different shoe, something more classical such as a suede (steer clear of patent as the silk skirt should be the main light reflector in this outfit) black Pigalle Follie, and an alternative clutch, such as the REISS Beau Suede Knot Clutch. Both accessories compliment each other through their suede material, but don't compete with the dress, and the folds on the clutch itself subtly reflect the waves in the skirt.

Suede Black Pigalle Follie Net-a-porter.com RRP £425

REISS Beau Suede Knot Clutch bloomingdales.com RRP £178.56

BCBGMAXAZRIA: bold, tailored, beautiful - an all time favourite.

There's this fantastic Mall in Spain that I go to everytime I'm visiting the area, and I've always wandered past the BCBGMAXAZRIA store and drooled (in an ever so classy manner of course) over the outfits in the windows. Always feeling too 'poor' to enter I forever refrained from stepping inside - until a year ago. I did not regret this decision; I tried on many a dress, felt like a princess, and was treated well with friendly staff who did everything they could to help. 

Ever since I have longed for their designs, wanting to own one for myself, but not having yet found the funds. Instead I lust over what I can see online, and long to once again set foot in another of their stores and try on their garments as though I'm there to buy (and one day, to actually purchase something for real).

I spotted these dresses last night (or should I say, in the early hours of this morning) and immediately decided they'd be a part of my next review. They are elegant, beautiful tailored with bold lines, and classy; they ooze confidence and sophistication, yet have a price tag I can't argue at being too expensive (considering their design, quality and Brand). 

Feeling bold? Opt for Larkspur Blue or Bright Poppy as a colourful alternative to Black

Kiara Peplum Front Slit Gown

Available in Black, Larkspur Blue, or Bright Poppy

The high cut split up the skirt allows the leg to peak through seductively, adding an element of mystery and a sense of seduction. The high neck line keeps this garment sophisticated; it covers up the cleavage and instead, lets the open back 'do the talking' - which along with the sleeveless design gives it a younger, sexier vibe without being too risky. 

The folds at the front of the dress provide another focal point to the garment, perhaps helping to subtly draw the eye down to any leg that may be showing. It also gives the dress more shape and prevents it from being completely flat in colour as it adds shadows and contrast in shades.

Available at Bloomingdales - links are provided through out the review

RRP in all colours £290.06

AQ/AQ - a new favourite!

Formerly Aqua by Aqua, I recently discovered the Brand while browsing through the Shop Style app on my iPad; I am easily enticed by well tailored garments, and these pieces are great examples of exactly that. 

Talli Cross Front Maxi Dress
Available in Black, Navy and Cream/White

The cross over detailing on the front of the dress immediately caught my attention - alongside the beautifully tailored, elegantly figure hugging shape of the garment. Although the dress arguably shows a lot of cleavage, the floor length style follows the common heard rule of 'chest or legs' when deciding which to show off. 

AQ/AQ description:
'Midnight navy maxi dress with deep plunge front and cross over detail to create a cut out look. 
Dress is fully lined and has a split in the back for ease of movement. 
Concealed zip fastening at back.
The Talli maxi dress is also available in a knee length style. 
From the AW15 Exo-Noir Party Edit.'

Retails a £110 but is currently on sale for £55


--------------

 

A beautiful example of the opposite is the 'Mesha Structured Mini Dress' which covers the upper body (minus arms) and reveals the legs. 

I like that it's sleeveless, keeping it great for summer evening parties, and the high neckline allows the legs to do all the talking. The structure of the skirt is stunning, it opens up the front and accentuates the shape of the garment - and with the choice of black, white or pink you can opt for something classic, or a bit flirtier!

AQ/AQ website description:
'The Mesha sleeveless mini dress features a round neck and structured a-line fully bonded skirt. Pleated design details to the front of the skirt.
The black mini dress fastens with a concealed zip to the back. Belt sold separealtey. 
From the PRE SS16 Deity Collection.
WHY WE LOVE IT
The fit and flare style complements the female form. The dress is bra friendly and the textured fabric creates a structured shape.'

Retails at £140

The belt is mentioned to be sold separately, and I think opting for metal instead of fabric is the perfect choice as it provides a good contrast in colour and material. 

Sphere Full Metal Waist Belt

Retails at £45

AQ/AQ have a fantastic range of elegant, sophisticated, well tailored garments for feminine and classy women. I would recommend browsing their site - they've tops, trousers, accessories, playsuits and more, so if dresses aren't up your street, but tailored pieces are - they should have something for you. Their pricing is high compared to high street brands because you are paying for good quality, however in comparison to high end designers they are an affordable alternative.