Fashion designer Anna Sheffield talks about east and west coast style
8/20/2010

Let's face it - fashion is often inspired by one's surroundings. Each city in the United States has its own style and personality when it comes to attire.

Fashion designer Anna Sheffield recently spoke with StyleList.com and admitted there's a unique distinction between trendsetters in Los Angeles and New York City.

"I think that in New York, femininity is kind of equal to strength and there's a different type of toughness to the women there. Like the gladiator sandal, it's still going because everybody feels fierce," she told the news outlet.

Women on the west coast who want to feel like a Big Apple babe may want to look for edgier semi-formal dresses. Pieces that incorporate leather as opposed to lace can allow women to rock a Manhattan-based look.

On the flipside, those based in The City That Never Sleeps and want to dress like an L.A. girl can opt for frillier formal dresses.

"In NYC, there are edgy and strong females, whereas in California, women are more free to be delicate and feminine," Sheffield told the news outlet

Elaine from Seinfeld inspires floral semi-formal dresses
8/20/2010

It seems as though the impossible has happened - Elaine Benes from Seinfeld has become a fashion icon.

According to the New York Times, the floral-wearing best bud of Jerry Seinfeld from the hit television show has inspired a rebirth of blossoms on semi-formal dresses around the country. Anointed "Upper West Side Grunge" by Anne Slowey of Elle Magazine, the look may very well be the go-to fad of the year.

"There are certain trends you can't imagine rearing their heads, but then, there they are," Slowey told the news outlet.

Women who are looking for semi-formal dresses and party dresses at the moment may want to keep this beautiful pattern in mind before they choose a piece to wear. It seems as though celebrities are embracing this style as well.

"You see someone like Chloë Sevigny wearing it, and you're like, 'Oh wait, I want to do that, too.' The Chloë Sevigny version is shorter and cuter. It's a flirtier, cleaned-up version, but it is derivative," Slowey told the news outlet.

A light-colored semi-formal dress that can work for a rich autumn palette
8/19/2010

Transitioning into fall can be tricky when you are used to the bright palette of summertime. However, you may not need to hang every light-colored item in the back of your closet and resign yourself to wearing the deep tones so often associated with autumn.

Neutrals like camel and tan look great in the late summer and fall, as the colors are light enough to complement the still-present sunshine, yet rich enough to be appropriate for the chillier temperatures.

Kristin Cavallari recently embraced this palette at the BlackBerry Torch launch party in Los Angeles, California. The Hills alum wore a body-hugging camel-colored semi-formal dress that boasted long sleeves and slinky ruching.

And, while it's common for women to dye their shoes to match their gown, it seems that Cavallari colored her locks instead! According to People magazine, the reality starlet darkened her hair from buttery blonde to warm honey. Perhaps she wanted her strands to reflect the changing seasons as well?

"I just dyed it today," Cavallari told the news source. "I don't think I'll be a full brunette but I definitely want to put a little bit more dark in it."

Pair a neutral-colored dress with bright accessories
8/6/2010

While formal dresses are available in almost any hue imaginable, sometimes a girl wants to rock a neutral-colored gown. Whether it's a basic beige or a rich tan, these barely-there colors can be super-flattering and subtly sexy.

Still, some women may feel that neutral-hued garments are more drab than fab. Instead of wearing a bold shade to every event, why not rock a taupe dress and accentuate the ensemble with a few bright accessories?

At last weekend's Intermix Summer Rooftop concert in New York City, all eyes were on model Hilary Rhoda, who dazzled in a modest shirtdress. While the neutral-colored animal-print dress certainly flattered the brunette beauty, we were especially impressed with how she accessorized her outfit.

Rhoda infused her tan ensemble with bursts of color, wearing bright orange sandals and a neon yellow watch. Trust us, the look was anything but boring!

A neutral-colored dress is great for a daytime luncheon and an evening cocktail party, but to put together the perfect ensemble, women should shop early. Buying a gown ahead of schedule will give ladies ample time to track down the perfect bright accessories to make their outfit pop.

Gwen Stefani wears Grammy dress to friend's wedding
8/17/2010

While women are often warned not to wear the same formal dress twice, ladies who really love a gown should not feel compelled to hang it back in their closets indefinitely after a night out. With the right mix of accessories, one gown can look perfectly unique at two separate events.

Singer (and fashion icon) Gwen Stefani decided to recycle a memorable formal dress for a friend's wedding last weekend. The No Doubt front woman attended the nuptials rocking the same black-and-white polka dot gown that she wore to the 2003 Grammy Awards.

To create two separate ensembles with the same dress, Stefani wore different accessories. For the evening awards show, she exuded rock and roll glamor with red high heels and a white fur wrap to awards show. However, the blonde bombshell switched gears for the daytime wedding, pairing her polka dot number with black pumps and a blush-colored shawl.

By selecting separate accessories that were appropriate for each specific event, Stefani was able to create two unique looks with one dress. Just remember to try on the dress before the (second) big outing - if a few months have passed, you'll want to make sure it still fits prior to the night of the event.

Camel may be the ideal color for bridesmaid dresses
8/18/2010

The leaves are turning and the temperature is dropping - in other words, fall is right around the corner. Believe it or not, within a month autumnal colors will be making their way into women's wardrobes.

And while scores of ladies will be showing off the typical hues of the season - vibrant reds, yellows and browns - the Los Angeles Times is sticking with the notion that a surprising shade may be the go-to hue of the moment.

"One of fashion's most famous muted hues - camel - is fall's hottest color," according to the news source.

For brides, this bit of information may be heaven-sent. Women who are planning a walk down the aisle and stumped about which color to outfit their bridesmaids in may find that camel will look fantastic at day or night occasions.

Not so surprisingly, the news source agrees.

"We love it because it melds seamlessly into a black-heavy wardrobe and, when coloring classic silhouettes, adds 1960s-Mad Men panache to ensembles," the news provider reports.

Hilary Duff gets married in elaborate wedding dress
8/18/2010

Hilary Duff is all grown up! The 22-year-old singer and actress just got hitched to Canadian hockey hunk Mike Comire in an intimate ceremony in Santa Barbara, California.

And while the petite woman is no doubt reveling in her newly-married status, we couldn't stop drooling over her wedding dress. From the grainy photos that have made their way to the media, it looks like her gown was gorgeous.

For her walk down the aisle, the So Yesterday singer wore a strapless creation that appeared to feature a tight-fitting bodice, a poofy, elaborate skirt and long, elegant train. To top off her ensemble, Hilary was wearing a veil which was pinned behind her elegant updo.

Duff's choice in wedding day wear may once again reiterate what brides across the globe are thinking - the princess style gown is back in. In fact, it seems as though celebs everywhere are donning huge, intense creations for their entrance into marital bliss.

Women who think they may be interested in sporting a gigantic wedding dress on their special day should do themselves a favor and begin their search as soon as an engagement ring is placed on their finger. Early preparations can make a bride extremely happy in the end!

Spice up a formal dress with a big-collared coat
8/18/2010

Women who are heading out to a shindig or soiree naturally want to look as unique as possible. Recently, a trend making its way onto the bodies of women everywhere is to show off a stylish, big-collared jacket with a head-turning semi-formal dress.

Lucky Magazine recently gave some pointers on how to rock this look, and their advice is seriously sound.

"Choose a motorcycle or peacoat style that hits just below the waist," the news source dishes. It also recommends that women "counter the collar's volume with a slick mini or pencil skirt."

Girls who are attending a party this fall will certainly need a jacket to keep their arms warm and upper bodies safe from the cooler temperatures. Those who plan on wearing a slim mini-dres or tight cocktail piece may be the best candidates to take part this big-collared trend.

Of course, women should pay attention to their footwear as well.

"Shoes should have a tough vibe - they'll anchor the entire look," the publication advises.

Get your mom's opinion when shopping for formal dresses
8/17/2010

Whether you're shopping for a gown for homecoming or your wedding dress, there seems to be one opinion that can matter above all else - your mother's! And, it seems that A-listers consult their mom's as well when picking out a formal dress for a big night out.

Lea Michele seems to make as many headlines for her head-turning red carpet ensembles as she does for her show-stopping performances on Fox's hit show Glee, and critics are waiting with bated breath to see what the starlet will show up in at the 2010 Emmys.

While the event is still weeks away, Michele told People magazine that she has already found her gown. When asked how she selected the formal dress, the Broadway star gave credit to her mother.

"My stylist helped me and my mom was there and she saw me try it on and she was like 'perfect.' That's what I do," Michele told the news source.

Getting your mom's opinion on which formal dress to purchase may be important, but don't fret if you no longer live near your mother. By shopping online, girls can create a list of links to their favorite ensembles and send them to their moms for final opinions!

Black lace details showing up on A-list formal dresses
8/17/2010

Certain fabrics have particular sentiments - white lace is pure and wholesome, leather is edgy and chiffon is romantic. While black lace is often associated with overt sex appeal and the fashions of a mid-'80s Madonna, it seems that the dark material may be inherently glamorous, as it is becoming a staple on the red carpet.

Hollywood It-girl Blake Lively stunned onlookers when she rocked a formal dress that boasted bold lacy accents at a recent screening for the film Twelve in New York City. The sexy number, which was created from blue, textured fabric, included a see-through lace midsection, highlighting the actress' impeccable abs.

At the Los Angeles premiere for The A-Team, Jessica Biel embraced the trend as well. The brunette beauty wore a cream gown that featured black lace-covered cutouts around her torso. The edgy material was balanced by the elegant silk fabric, making Biel look both glamorous and sexy.

While black lace may no longer be reserved for bad girls, those who want to wear a formal dress with this detailing should remember to use it in moderation, as too much body-hugging lace can overwhelm an ensemble.

Marisa Miller looks marvelous in a pastel pink party dress
8/16/2010

While pink is entirely feminine, different tones of this color evoke different sentiments. Hot pink signifies a woman who wants to be gawked at, while a more rosy hue alludes to a lady who is embracing her girly-girl assets.

It's also safe to stay that pastel pink is one of the most subtle versions of this spectacular color. The shade doesn't garner much immediate attention, but the hue can make any girl seem super elegant and refined.

Marisa Miller recently stepped out in pastel pink at a party, and her appearance this particular evening was nothing short of flawless. The Sports Illustrated model paired her casual semi-formal dress with lovely gold accessories, which perfectly matched her striking golden highlights.

All in all, it was a slam-dunk appearance, and it looks like fashion site FabSugar.com agrees.

"[Marisa] knows that playing up assets doesn't have to be in your face. She shows off her stems and adds a little gold glimmer via a long gold necklace and a single bangle for a look that's part sexy party girl, part summer sophisticate," the news source reports.

Two colors, one great look
8/18/2010

In fashion, women often try to their best to match formal dresses with their shoes. And why wouldn't they? No one wants to see a sexy red cocktail dress worn with a pair of orange pumps or - heaven forbid- a black gown complemented by brown strappy sandals.

Still, a trend making its way onto the red carpet lately is for starlets to wear shoes and a formal dress of differing colors. Divine and subtly daring, it's safe to say the look is attention-grabbing from the get-go.

America Ferrera, former star of Ugly Betty, showed up to the 25th annual Imagen Awards in an unforgettable number. Her sea blue dress, which was ruffled and radiant, allowed her to show off her hips and caliente cleavage.

However, Ferrera decided to complement her getup with a pair of scarlet red peep-toe shoes. The footwear's hue, which some women might believe contrasts with blue, looked nothing short of magnificent.

Women who are hoping to garner some attention at the next soiree they attend may want to look to America, the beautiful, for inspiration. It doesn't take much effort to turn a whole lot of heads.

Age-appropriate semi-formal dresses are out there
8/16/2010

When a young girl reaches the age of 13, she often wants to embrace her sudden teenage status. Still, there is usually some friction between parents and their daughters about what's hot, what's not, and what is just too revealing for their age.

Bella Thorne, an up-and-coming actress who just happens to be 13-years-old herself, recently showed off a striking ensemble that was both adorable and age-appropriate. The young lady stepped out at the Kids Choice Awards in a silver, knee-length party dress that was shimmering all the way down the red carpet.

While this look is often found on much of Hollywood's older starlets, Thorne chose to complement her dress with a pair of flat ballet shoes. Because of this, her getup was toned down, bringing out her best features but keeping her youthfulness in check.

Believe it or not, there are endless semi-formal dresses out there which can please a teenager headed to an important shindig, as well as her parents. They important thing is to look early so both parties are content when the young lady heads out the door.

Kristin Cavallari looks lovely in a daytime party dress
8/16/2010

Kristin Cavallari is often photographed gallivanting from one party to the next, so one would hope her clothes accommodate her on-the-go lifestyle. Not so surprisingly, the blonde reality star was recently snapped by paparazzi in a dress that was perfect for the daytime but could be jazzed up for evening affairs.

LC's nemesis was caught wearing a muted gray party dress that was complemented by a casual pair of brown strappy sandals. The look was ideal for women running errands who still want to appear chic.

Still, we couldn't help but wonder if Kristin was planning on the same dress out in the evening. The look could easily be spiced up with a pair of sexy peep-toe pumps and a lovely feminine scarf.

Kristin is known for creating drama, but makes looking fashionable completely easy-going. Ladies who want to jet from one event to the other throughout the day and evening should look to the girl for inspiration.

Choose wisely when packing semi-formal dresses for vacation
8/16/2010

Every girl needs a vacation, but there's one thing most don't look forward to - packing. It's often difficult for women to choose between their dozens of high heels and a plethora of semi-formal dresses and fill their bag with just a few.

Luckily, StyleList.com compiled some tips on how girls who are traveling can look trendy while saving space in their suitcase. Not so surprisingly, one of the more noteworthy pointers was including the all-important little black dress.

"An all-black ensemble can be the height of sophistication, but we think it's important to add interest through things like texture," the news outlet reports.

Girls who are partaking in some sightseeing during the day can wear a simple, knee-length black semi-formal dress and complement the ensemble with a casual pair of shoes. For evening, a pair of high-heels will turn the getup into something elegant and unforgettable.

However, the news source advises ladies to "cut down on the number of heavy pairs of shoes and bags needed" and to "mix things up via scarves, jewelry, and other accessories that make a big impact without taking up too much space."

Pair your semi-formal dress with a chic vest
8/13/2010

While women have a plethora of options for items to throw on over a semi-formal dress, it seems that ladies often opt for wraps, blazers and intricately woven sweaters. However, it seems that some starlets have recently been pairing their gowns with an interesting piece - vests! At the Nylon and Express' Denim Issue Party in West Hollywood, California, Kelly Osbourne wore a body-hugging leopard print dress, and accessorized the long-sleeved number with black pumps, a clutch and a leather vest.

Gossip Girl star Jessica Szohr opted for a denim vest over her little black dress at the recent New York City premiere of The Tillman Story. The vest complemented the slinky number, infusing the look with a hippie-chic vibe. In both cases, the beauties chose to pair their edgy vests with tight dresses, providing a great contrast between the flirty gowns and the casual outerwear.

Women who decide to rock this trend should remember to follow Osbourne and Szohr's lead and accent their ensemble with ultra-feminine accessories like sky-high heels and large earrings, which will keep the outfit from appearing too informal for a big night out.

Use accessories to add elegance to a semi-formal dress
8/12/2010

There are few things better than finding a semi-formal dress that fits you perfectly, and once you locate the ideal gown, you'll likely want to wear it as often as possible. But sometimes even a dress that fits you flawlessly can seem a bit too casual for a formal affair.

Instead of hanging the number back in your closet, why not dress it up with glamorous accessories? A few basic additions can turn a casual dress into an elegant ensemble.

According to Glamour.com, a jeweled belt is a great way to add a bit of pizazz to a low-key number. "Most women don't think to wear them for dressy events, so you'll stand out from anybody else who may decide to pull out their [little black dress] for the event," the website reports.

Dangly earrings, a cocktail ring and a brightly-hued clutch can also bring some glamor to an understated ensemble. But when picking out shoes to go with a heavily-accessorized semi-formal dress, you may want to opt for a no-frills pair.

"A strappy pair of black heels [will] keep your look simply sophisticated," the news source states. "[And], you probably already own a pair, so that's one less thing to buy!"

Mixing silver and gold - yes, it can be done!
8/12/2010

Let's face it - formal dresses created from metallic material often outshine the rest. While there's something special about every color of the rainbow, a gown that glitters can be magical.

Of course, women who have decided to purchase a metallic formal dress for an upcoming soiree often make themselves choose between silver and gold. Believe it or not, these two fantastic hues can be worn together.

Not convinced? Just take a gander at Sophie Anderton. The British model and television presenter showed up to a party in London rocking a sexy silver mini-dress. The piece, which fell to her mid-thigh, was as unforgettable as it was super-hot.

In a bold move, Anderton was sporting a pair of gold strappy sandals that made her legs look incredibly sexy and her dark pedicure stand out. The look was picture-perfect - we wouldn't have changed a thing!

Girls who are looking to embrace the metallic look but can't decide between silver and gold may want to think about wearing both. When it comes down to it, the nighttime is the right time to take some chances.

Wedding dress fabrics - choose wisely
8/12/2010

When a woman is about to walk down the aisle, she spends much time deciding on her wedding dress' cut and style. Still, brides shouldn't forget about one important facet of their wedding gown - fabric.

Luckily, Glamour.com gave brides-to-be some inside scoop on choosing material. As expected, the key is to make sure it fits a woman's personality and tastes.

"If you're a girly-girl looking for an uber-femme gown, you'll probably want to stick with one of the floatier fabrics, like tulle or organza," according to the news source. The publication goes on to remind girls that wedding dresses are usually made from silk, satin, chiffon and tulle.

While this is a great idea, brides should make sure to plan ahead. Some women want to exude femininity on their special day, but surprisingly wind up rocking something cutting-edge.

No matter what, brides-to-be should pay attention to the feeling certain materials convey.

"Lace is a girly fabric too but it's more old-school and has more of an antique vibe," the publication reports, adding that "taffeta's great if you're searching for some structure."

Ruffles are radiant and beautiful on formal dresses
8/11/2010

When hoping to strut her stuff in an elegant and unforgettable formal dress, a woman often looks for some unique, intriguing detail. Between sexy sequins and cute cut-outs, having a dress boast one head-turning feature can turn a wallflower into the belle of the ball.

This fall, a surprising trend is predicted to be popping up all over the place - ruffles. This adorable detail combines womanly ideals and a fun, carefree attitude with one single feature.

"Whether it's just a tiny ripple of fabric down the front...or full-on tiers of flourishes, this deeply-feminine embellishment is one of the quickest ways to add interest to an outfit," Lucky Magazine reports.

Girls who are in need of a fabulous formal dress for an upcoming occasion may want to look for pieces that feature ruffles. Floor-length gowns that have them cascading down the front, or semi-formal dresses that boast the design on the hemline will look absolutely fabulous at an evening soiree.

However, the news outlet recommends treading carefully.

"Because ruffles create volume, be sure to counter the effect with something tailored, like a slim jacket," according to experts at the publication.

Animal prints are still wild and hot
8/9/2010

Love them or hate them, animal prints are here to stay.

Still, would trendsetting women want it any other way? The pretty and memorable patterns can turn a simple outfit into something unique and eye-catching in an instant. Women who combine a little black semi-formal dress with a pair of leopard-print pumps and a matching, silk scarf can change her whole getup in two seconds flat.

Kelly Bensimon, former fashion editor and current star of The Real Housewives of New York City, obviously knows this. The leggy lady showed up to an event in Las Vegas sporting a cougar-printed miniskirt that perfectly matched her cutie-patootie animal print heels. Meow!

Kelly complemented the look with a deep mustard yellow top. The look let women know they only need a splash of a unique pattern to turn heads.

Of course, as with any occasion that calls for a semi-formal or cocktail dress, the important detail is to begin searching early. Girls certainly want to make a statement, but they need to be comfortable in their outfit, too!

The fall runway trends to follow when selecting a homecoming dress
8/6/2010

As summer winds down and a new school year approaches, teenage girls are bound to start thinking about what to wear for homecoming. While summer styles may still be in the forefront of your mind, girls looking for an autumn semi-formal dress can select an ensemble that fits with fall's hottest trends.

According to experts at Refinery29.com, fall runways were filled with a mix of rich jewel tones and classic colors. While gem tones are typically most popular in autumn, the news source states that deep purples reigned supreme for the upcoming season. Depending upon their hair color and skin tone, ladies can opt for warm, aubergine-colored gowns or cooler violet-hued dresses.

Girls looking to turn heads while wearing a lighter color may want to select a pale blue ensemble. "[This tone] really caught our attention not only because it seemed unexpected for the cold season, but because it had an icy-cool modernity that seems incredibly chic right now," the news outlet reports.

Of course, there is one classic color that seems to never go out of style, especially for semi-formal dresses - bright red! This bold yet sophisticated shade is sure to make any teenager feel like a homecoming queen.

Hillary Clinton's mother-of-the-bride dress - more details emerge
8/6/2010

The fashion world has been buzzing ever since Chelsea Clinton tied the knot with Marc Mezvinsky, and for good reason. After glancing at the photos that have surfaced from her blessed affair, it looks like her shindig was a doozy.

Still, we can't stop drooling over mom Hillary's mother-of-the-bride dress. And while the color - fuchsia - was known from the get-go, there are further confirmed details about the gown's cut and style.

It looks like the Secretary of State went all out for the elaborate bash. Hillary's dress featured an A-line skirt and was created from thick, luscious material. The number also contained soft, flowy fabric that wrapped around the shoulders.

However, it was the former Presidential candidate's skirt detail that has us in awe. Clinton's gown boasted intricate beading and scores of carefully sewn-in flowers. The look was entirely feminine and flawless.

While some mothers of the bride may believe a dress such as this would be out of their price range, they shouldn't throw in the towel just yet. Flower detail can be found on dresses of all shapes and sizes - the key is to begin searching early and never give up hope.

Spice up a semi-formal dress with vibrant, yellow shoes
8/6/2010

When it comes to adding a bit of pizzazz to a semi-formal dress, women have plenty of options. From unique belts to intriguing, bold jewelry, a girl can often take her look from dull to daring in an instant.

However, there's a sensational trend that has been popping up on the red carpet recently - vibrant yellow shoes. This fancy footwear has the ability to make a single-color semi-formal dress stand out, and a cocktail piece pop.

The first celeb to sport this sunny hue was "it girl" Anna Kendrick. The Twilight actress and Academy Award-nominee showed up to the premiere of Scott Pilgrim vs. The World in an itsy-bitsy royal blue number that was complemented by a pair of ruffled, yellow shoes.

Also, former Spice Girl Mel B. looked extra sweet at the NBC Universal press tour. The beautiful babe showed us what she really wants from her formal wear in a plain strapless black dress and sexy lemon-colored high heels.

When it comes to spicing up formal wear, yellow is far from mellow. Girls should embrace the color and see if it works for them.

Finding that perfectly sexy semi-formal dress
8/5/2010

In addition to rocking a sky-high pair of heels and a smoldering smoky eye, women are often looking for other ways to add a bit of sex appeal to their ensemble. Instead of focusing on accessories, those who want to amp up their sultry style may want to pay attention to the cut and fabric of their semi-formal dress.

According to InStyle.com, baring one's shoulders or showing some leg is a surefire way to look sexier. An off-the-shoulder gown is a romantic silhouette that will turn heads, and short gowns can be paired with a fun stiletto to lengthen legs.

Fabric-choice is also paramount when selecting a saucy semi-formal dress. "A little dose of sparkle is an easy way to draw some eyes," the news source reports. "At night, go full-on glittery [in] a luminous minidress and strappy metallic heels."

Women can also add sex appeal by rocking an animal print. However, girls should remember to use restraint when dressing in the wild pattern. The website suggests wearing a leopard-print shoe or a loose-fitting dress, and breaking up the design with solid accessories.

Select shoes that match your formal dress and flatter your shape
8/5/2010

"When it comes to selecting your footwear, there are certain styles that can help accentuate your best assets so you can feel confident and look beautiful," industry insider Paola Venturi told StyleList.com.

Instead of solely matching the shoe to the formal dress, make sure the pair suits your body's shape as well.

Ladies with short legs may want to opt for a neutral-colored pump, as People StyleWatch reports that these shoes will elongate legs, especially when paired with a shorter hemline. Sky-high heels and bare legs may be perfect for women with wide hips, as eyes will be drawn along the leg and past the hips.

Cage sandals, while fun for some occasions, can look heavy with a formal dress, the news source reports. Instead, opt for a pair of heels with a low-cut vamp that will show off ankles and create a smooth, graceful leg line.

Peach semi-formal dresses are completely peachy-keen
8/12/2010

So, it's no surprise that women are scouring around for peach semi-formal dresses to wear at the next shindig they're attending. And, you better believe celebrities are getting their hands on pretty peach pieces as well.

The latest starlet to sport this perfect color is Katrina Bowden, who plays the sweet-but-ditzy Cerie on NBC's hit comedy, 30 Rock. The beautiful blonde was caught wearing a sleek and sexy peach creation that featured a plunging neckline and slim spaghetti straps. The adorable shade made her look cute, sexy and hot.

Women who adore the color pink but don't want to look like a girly-girl may want to take a cue from Katrina and pick out a semi-formal dress created from this color. The shade is perfect for women of all skin tones, and is bound to help a girl make her mark at an event.

New survey finds women prefer tan stockings to bare legs
8/9/2010

Even after purchasing the perfect formal dress, women still have a plethora of decisions to make - heels or flats, earrings or a necklace, shoulder bag or clutch. When selecting hosiery, however, it seems that more women opt for stockings over bare legs.

According to the Daily Express, a recent survey conducted by the Charnos hosiery company revealed that 81 percent of British women questioned preferred to wear tan tights in the summer.

"In this hot weather, women want the instant sun-kissed, polished effect. They don't need to worry about 'faking it' or streaky pins, they can just pull on a pair of tights and go," said Alison Baines, Charnos brand manager.

The news source reports that celebrities like Beyonce and Sarah Jessica Parker have embraced this trend, rocking "cosmetic finish" tights with formal dresses.

Whether you are wearing a great gown or a short cocktail dress, tan tights are an easy way to give your legs a boost of color. However, remember to stock up on a few pairs of stockings - a tiny snag in one leg can turn into a major run that can ruin a look!

Burnt orange bridesmaid dresses are hot for the fall
8/9/2010

Burnt orange - beautiful, trendy and unforgettable - is popping up on runways all over the globe at the moment. In fact, MSN.com insists the shade is picture-perfect for mid-afternoon shindigs.

"Sometimes you need a real show-stopper of a dress for a daytime event, and few colors are as up to the task as orange," the news source reports.

While some women tend to shy away from the hue, girls should do their best to give it a shot. In fact, brides who are looking for their gals to contrast with their white wedding gown may want to look for bridesmaid dresses in this deep, lovely shade.

Of course, women should remember to pair such a piece with simple jewelry and shoes.

"This citrus shade is a classic fall color and is easy to pull off if you keep your accessories neutral," reports the news outlet.

Pair a neutral-colored dress with bright accessories
8/6/2010

Still, some women may feel that neutral-hued garments are more drab than fab. Instead of wearing a bold shade to every event, why not rock a taupe dress and accentuate the ensemble with a few bright accessories?

At last weekend's Intermix Summer Rooftop concert in New York City, all eyes were on model Hilary Rhoda, who dazzled in a modest shirtdress. While the neutral-colored animal-print dress certainly flattered the brunette beauty, we were especially impressed with how she accessorized her outfit.

Rhoda infused her tan ensemble with bursts of color, wearing bright orange sandals and a neon yellow watch. Trust us, the look was anything but boring!

A neutral-colored dress is great for a daytime luncheon and an evening cocktail party, but to put together the perfect ensemble, women should shop early. Buying a gown ahead of schedule will give ladies ample time to track down the perfect bright accessories to make their outfit pop.

Shoulder pads can still look fab
8/6/2010

While some women may be horrified by the notion of wearing the poofy dress padding, other girls simply adore the idea. And, it looks like some of the sexiest women in Hollywood are sporting it loud and proud.

Jaslene Gonzalez, season 8 winner of America's Next Top Model, recently stepped out at a New York City event showing off an eye-catching set of shoulder pads. The Puerto Rico native was dressed in a striking black cocktail dress that also featured an unforgettable plunging neckline. The lovely Latina capped off her look with a pair of black platform heels.

Women should remember that these chic shoulder adornments don't have to make a woman feel bulky. As Gonzalez was able to prove, showing the appropriate amount of skin and rocking an incredible pair of shoes will turn the look from football player to fierce.

A printed formal dress can be trendy and elegant
8/4/2010

No stranger to elegant events, Glee star Lea Michele wowed the crowd at the Fox Summer Press Tour Party in Santa Monica, California, in a floor-length number that boasted a bold print. The strapless formal dress featured a tie-dye-like pattern, and was delicately cinched at the waist with a black sash.

However, to keep the outfit looking more hip than hippie, Michele chose dark earth tones - grays, khakis and touches of green - instead of bright hues that would have combined with the pattern to make a busy mess instead of a glamorous getup.

Women who want to wear a printed formal dress should follow Michele's lead and opt for a pattern in an understated color scheme. Remember to keep accessories minimal, as too many baubles could overwhelm the intricacies of a beautiful printed fabric.

Jennifer Aniston puts her spin on the little black dress
8/4/2010

Leave it to Hollywood's biggest stars to grab hold of a classic and constantly reinvent it day after day. Currently, Jennifer Aniston is the latest celeb to put her spin on an timeless trend - the little black dress.

For an appearance on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno to promote her new romantic comedy, The Switch, Aniston wore a short black dress. But while it sounds simple enough, the former Friend infused the ensemble with her trademark sexy style.

According to InStyle.com, the silhouette was anything but simple. "The easygoing-but-still-sexy shape was perfect for the laid-back star," the website reported. "A high hemline and peep-toe heels showcased her tanned, toned legs, while layered necklaces and bracelets brought shine to the relatively informal style."

The dress' flowy top and billowy sleeves allowed the actress to subtly show-off her shapely arms as well, without creating a too-bare overall look.

Ladies who are searching for the perfect little black dress of their own may want to take a page from Aniston's playbook and opt for an unexpected cut when selecting a classically conventional piece.

Pair a short dress with a blazer for year-round style
8/4/2010

Instead of burying that little gown in the back of your closet to hibernate, why not pair the dress with a lovely blazer and rock the ensemble as the temperature drops?

Actress Kate Walsh looked stunning as she stepped out on the red carpet for the Disney and ABC Summer Press Tour in Beverly Hills, California. The Private Practice star wore a mocha-colored short dress that showed off her fantastic figure and toned legs. Instead of draping a delicate shawl across her shoulders, however, Walsh opted for a white blazer with rolled-up sleeves.

While some cover-ups can overwhelm the delicacy of a short dress, the blazer complemented the ensemble perfectly, as the light color and slouchy sleeves kept the jacket from seeming overly structured.

Blazers are also a great way to add a touch of conservative-style to an otherwise revealing number. Throw a fitted jacket over your short dress for dinner, and then take off the blazer when you're ready to go out dancing!

Redheads will shine in emerald green formal dresses
8/4/2010

Redheads in particular may have a difficult time choosing a hue for their formal dresses, as most advice for women with fiery locks involve which colors not to wear - often pinks, reds and oranges. However, according to Glamour.com, there is one shade that looks great on redheads and is appropriate for the upcoming season - emerald green.

When asked why the rich jewel tone looks so fantastic on red-haired women, the news source suggests basic principles once learned in art class. "Red and green are complimentary colors [they sit across from each other on the color wheel], so they bring out the best tones in one another," the website reports.

In addition to giving hair a boost, those with a pale complexion may also benefit from being paired with an emerald gown. "Redheads also tend to have fair skin, and a rich shade of emerald can help highlight that dewy glow, instead of washing you out, like a lot of other colors can," the news provider added.

Two skirts on a formal dress are better than one
8/3/2010

Believe it or not, a girl can have it all. And, some of Hollywood's most stunning starlets have recently proved this.

Eva Mendes, one of the loveliest Latinas in Hollywood, recently stepped out at a premiere for The Other Guys in a seriously striking ensemble. The talented beauty was dressed in a cream-colored short cocktail dress that featured a perfectly plunging neckline.

However, it was what fell below the bodice that has us in awe. Mendes' dress featured two skirts - one that hugged her bodacious bod and another which was poofy and fun.

Not so surprisingly, country cutie Carrie Underwood has embraced this fad as well. In fact, the beautiful blonde was photographed at this year's People's Choice Awards in a black and white semi-formal dress that embraced the same, dual-skirted style.

For women who are thinking outside the box, two skirts on a dress may be key.

Daphne Guinness dishes on her fun and fabulous style
8/3/2010

Who doesn't love Daphne Guinness? The fabulous fashionista and heiress to the Guinness family fortune is not only smart and beautiful, she knows how to have a good time when it comes to formal dresses.

The sensational woman recently spoke with Vogue.com, where she emphasized having fun with her sense of style.

"I like to walk in with my heels and stand in front of people on their laptops and then drop down and suddenly they look up and you're ten inches shorter - it gives everybody a good laugh," she told the news source.

People may think Guinness is all talk, but the woman certainly puts her money where her mouth is. In fact, the beautiful blonde stepped out in London this month wearing a vibrant blue military blazer and matching sky-high heels.

While not every girl may want to embrace this look, the British trendsetter has a point. Girls shouldn't hesitate to pick out clothes that make them feel at ease and in the mood to party.

After all, why spend the money on a formal dress if you're not going to love being in it? Let's all raise our glasses and toast Guinness for such solid advice.

Alicia Keys weds Swizz Beatz in gorgeous, Grecian-style wedding dress
8/2/2010

We've said it before and we'll say it again - Grecian wedding dresses are hot-hot-hot. The gowns, which are both feminine and elegant, look absolutely lovely on every girl who dons them.

So it's no surprise that two wonderful women who entered marital bliss this past weekend decided to wear this striking style. While Chelsea Clinton showed off a Grecian gown during her reception, we were also enthralled with another newly-married woman's dress.

Alicia Keys wed her music producer boyfriend Swizz Beatz in the Mediterranean this past weekend, and the mom-to-be was photographed rocking a stunning white Grecian gown. The dress, which featured an empire silhouette and material draped over one shoulder, was absolutely perfect for her ever-growing belly and curvaceous figure.

Of course, girls who aren't expecting can certainly sport this style. And, women won't need to purchase a dress created by an haute-couture designer either. When it come to searching for that perfect style, ladies should remember that Grecian wedding dresses are flirty, affordable and fun.

Hillary Clinton dons fabulous fuchsia mother-of-the-bride dress
8/2/2010

Congrats to Hillary Clinton! Not only did the proud momma look absolutely fabulous at her daughter Chelsea's wedding this past weekend, but she managed to take a break from her typical pants suit ensemble in order to slip into a marvelous mother-of the-bride dress.

Although photos from the blessed event are somewhat scarce at the moment, we're currently in love with the color of Hillary's gown - fuchsia. The former first lady donned a floor-length number in the vibrant rosy hue.

Hillary reminded mothers of the bride around the world that although a woman needs to look classy when her daughter gets married, she shouldn’t be afraid to take some chances. Loud, lovely colors such as fuchsia, burnt orange and canary yellow are all great choices for a beaming mom.

Women who aren't sure of the shade they will be wearing at their daughter's wedding should do themselves a favor and look online at photos. Even though it's the bride's time to shine, a momma can look hot, too!

Chelsea Clinton’s wedding dresses dazzle guests
8/2/2010

Chelsea Clinton is a married woman! The world has watched the former first daughter blossom from a curly-haired teenager to a gorgeous, self-confident lady. So, it's no surprise the masses were consumed with the details of her and Marc Mezvinsky's wedding.

And while photos of the blushing bride have already hit the internet, there is one facet of the affair that has wowed the world - her wedding gown. It looks like the former first daughter said yes to not just one, but two fabulous dresses.

According to the New York Times, the current Mrs Mezvinsky walked down the aisle in a piece that "consisted of a number of yards of ivory silk organza that had been lightly gathered, with tulle pleated diagonally on the bodice." The dress was offset by a sparkling silver waistband, which added a bit of flair.

For the reception, New York Magazine reports that Chelsea showed off a Grecian goddess-inspired gown created from ivory silk tulle, which featured a crisscross back and black belt. It sounds breathtaking!

Of course, not every lady needs to hail from political royalty in order to look like a princess on her wedding day. Girls who search early are bound to find the dress of their dreams.

January Jones' dress - perfect for a bride
7/30/2010

For a variety of reasons, many brides opt to change into a less formal gown for their wedding receptions - some don't want to chance ruining their wedding dress while eating and dancing, while others simply enjoy the comfort that a more casual frock provides.

Still, women want to make sure they look their best throughout their entire wedding celebration, and choosing the right type of dress to don after the ceremony can be difficult. However, one A-list actress recently stepped out wearing a short white number that was ideal for a wedding reception.

At the New York City screening for the season four premiere of Mad Men, January Jones wowed the crowd in a white halter minidress, which featured gorgeous beaded detail that added a touch of elegance and gave the ensemble a unique look.

This white beaded mini would look fantastic on any bride ready to party with her husband and loved ones, as the cut would let her dance and work the crowd with ease, while the material still retains a bridal-feel.

Changing into an alternate frock also enables women to take more liberties when selecting their wedding dress - since the gown will only be worn for a short period of time, brides don't have to worry about burdensome features, such as a long train or full, princess skirt.

Sexy stripes are oh-so-nice
8/1/2010

Will stripes ever go out of style? Probably not! The design evokes both retro and modern feelings that seem to work for any style, decade or occasion.

So it's no surprise that Betsey Johnson, clothing designer and eternal fashionista, stepped out in this pretty pattern. The 67-year-old was sporting a black and turquoise striped piece that was paired with an eye-catching leopard-print bag.

And while Katie Holmes usually embraces casual clothing, Mrs Tom Cruise turned heads at a recent event. Suri's mommy was sporting a red and blue striped dress that also allowed the girl to show off her sexy super-slim legs.

While women may believe stripes are a go-to pattern for cocktail dresses, the design works for formal dresses as well. In fact, there are plenty of options out there that combine both cute and elegant ideals.

As always, the key to finding something perfect is to shop early. Besides, what's the worst that can happen? Purchase a frock way ahead of time and have a blast playing dress up before the main event.

Formal dresses with pockets - yay or nay?
8/1/2010

Formal dresses often make women feel super feminine, but, let's face it - they don't pair well with an oversized bag. Women often have to squeeze all their goods into a miniature clutch before painting the town red.

So when a girl comes across a semi-formal dress with pockets in them, should she purchase the piece? There is some debate as to whether this style looks hot or hideous.

Model Helena Christensen was recently spotted in a black semi-formal dress that had this intriguing detail on it. The leggy lady had her hands resting comfortably in her pockets and seemed to be embracing her inner Zen.

And who can forget Jennifer Hudson's infamous Oscar piece? The gorgeous singer and actress showed up to the Academy Awards in a striking brown number that featured two obvious side pouches. The starlet was snapped without a purse, and it looks like she couldn't have been any happier about it.

Girls who are willing to take a chance on this style can place their most important valuables in their pockets and reap the benefits of remaining hands-free. Zip up and get down.

America Ferrera dazzles in a striking purple number
8/1/2010

Brides who are currently picking out bridesmaid dresses may want to look to the talented actress for inspiration. While the eye-catching purple hue is lovely for fall weddings, pairing short dresses with a black belt can have an enticing visual effect. The accessory even lets gals with wider hips embrace their voluptuous curves.

All in all, Ferrera's red carpet appearance was nothing short of a slam dunk. Congrats to the girl for rocking her hourglass figure and showing off some serious va-va-voom.

Mother of the brides can look sexy at the rehearsal dinner
8/1/2010

When a woman's daughter is about to get married, she certainly wants to help and prepare. Still, mothers of the bride often spend their days and nights obsessing about their own garment for their child's big day.

Of course, ladies shouldn't forget about another celebratory evening - the rehearsal dinner. While this intimate gathering won't be as elaborate as the wedding shindig, the evening provides a woman with the chance to mix, mingle and strut their stuff around the venue.

Actress Patricia Clarkson recently stepped out on the red carpet in a sleek black number that highlighted her sultry side. And while the 50-year-old performer looks at least a decade younger than her real age, she embraced her approaching golden years like a pro.

Women who are on the crux of celebrating their daughter's marriage should be on the lookout for two special dresses - one elegant number to be worn at the wedding, and a slimmer, more fitted piece for the rehearsal. Raise your glass to the happy couple and feel beautiful.

Crocheted dresses - wear it and look fabulous
8/1/2010

When women hear the word crochet, they often conjure images of grandmothers quilting through the wee hours of the morning. Believe it or not, wearing sexy crochet formal wear is possible.

In fact, StyleList.com got the details on how to sport this fabric loud and proud. The news source spoke with celebrity stylist Jessica de Ruiter and picked her brain for some tips and pointers.

"I think a crochet dress can be a great investment," the fashion authority told the news outlet. "It is very versatile when worn with different accessories, taking you from a day at the beach to a chic city soiree."

De Ruiter has dressed countless starlets, which include Zooey Deschanel, Isla Fisher and Anna Kendrick. And while we have yet to see any of those ladies out and about in Tinseltown sporting crocheted duds, the autumn may be ideal for the trend.

"During the warm summer months we often seek out fashion that has more of an effortless, elegant undone and easy feel," she told the news outlet. "Crochet fits the bill perfectly."

Taylor Momsen talks about personal style
8/1/2010

Taylor Momsen is best known for playing wild child Jenny Humphrey on the hit show Gossip Girl, and it looks like the young woman embodies this idea off camera as well. Aside from rocking punk-style formal dresses on the runway, the teenage vixen has a no-frills attitude that she seems to let loose at the drop of a hat.

Momsen spoke with FabSugar.com and didn't hesitate to give her inside scoop on staying true to one's style.

"Personal style is just that - it has to be personal," she told the news outlet.

Taylor's clothing inclinations are certainly apparent on the red carpet. In fact, the 17-year-old recently showed up to a Victoria's Secret event in an off-white formal dress that was kicked up a notch with a set of black leather fingerless gloves. A few months before that, she was photographed in a gorgeous cream-colored ball gown and a striking pair of fishnet tights.

Still, Momsen maintains that all women have to do some soul-searching to get to the heart of their fashion personality.

"You have to make it unique to yourself. I don't really emulate anything in particular, I take from all different places," she told the news source.

Select a pageant dress inspired by Jessica Biel
7/30/2010

Let's face it - there is an overwhelming amount of gowns out there. From strapless to V-neck, A-line to mermaid, how is one woman expected to navigate the seemingly limitless selection to locate the perfect pageant dress?

Instead of shopping blindly without an idea of what you are seeking, look to some of Hollywood's most glamorous stars to gain inspiration.

While she began her career playing tomboy Mary Camden on 7th Heaven, Jessica Biel has blossomed into a fashion icon. Not so surprisingly, the starlet didn't disappoint at the recent German premiere of her film, The A-Team.

Biel dazzled on the red carpet, donning a powder blue strapless number that highlighted her flawless physique. Still, the gown's most eye-catching feature had to be the sparkling intricate beading.

If you are preparing to hit the stage, a gown similar to Biel's may be the perfect pageant dress - the sparkling adornments will grab everyone's attention, while the classic cut will showcase your fit figure.

And, like Biel, make sure your frock fits you perfectly - an ill-fitting gown can be unforgivably unflattering!

Allure reports on a fall trend for semi-formal dresses
7/30/2010

While summer is still in full swing, many women who have events to attend in the fall may already be shopping for semi-formal dresses to wear to the affairs. But, since it may seem nearly impossible to predict future trends without a front-row seat at the latest runway shows, what style should one choose for the upcoming season?

According to Allure magazine, ladies should prepare to embrace their bodies, as fall fashion shows were filled with cuts that celebrate curves.

However, women without an hourglass figure shouldn't fret, as the publication explains that designers are using ruffles and ruching to accentuate womanly figures. "The effect...is sexy and womanly - frilly, perhaps, but not girlie," the news source reports.

Ladies with a small chest can select a frock that features ruffles near the bustline, while women with slim hips can choose a number with a fuller skirt.

Aside from getting a jump on the latest styles, shopping early for a semi-formal dress is a wonderful idea. Ladies may be more likely to snag a dress while it's still in stock, and will have time to accessorize their ensemble well-before the event.

Draped silk formal dresses are simply sexy
7/30/2010

When selecting a formal dress, women often want a number that is a beautiful balance of elegant and sultry. While many people equate sexiness with showing skin, some of Hollywood's loveliest ladies are proving that you can be covered up and still smolder!

At the CW and Showtime Summer Press Tour Party in Beverly Hills, California, 90210 star Shenae Grimes dazzled in a green draped gown. The 20-year-old actress glowed in the silk number, as the slightly wide neck showcased her beautiful collarbone and the fabric flowed around her body in an ethereal, super-feminine cascade.

While promoting her new movie, Salt, in South Korea, Angelina Jolie wore a floor-length black silk gown that featured few embellishments and no defined shape. However, much like Grimes' ensemble, it was the fabric that gave Jolie's frock a simple sexiness, as the silk boasted a slight sheen and floated naturally with Jolie's every movement.

Draped silk gowns are a wonderful way for women to remain covered as they turn up their sex appeal. When donning this formal dress, however, ladies should avoid severe, overly-styled locks and an abundance of accessories. Instead, girls may want to emphasize the feminine feel with a simple hairstyle - like Grimes' soft updo or Jolie's natural waves.

Wear a short wedding dress that features traditional details
7/30/2010

Though wedding dresses are available in a multitude of styles, many frocks boast similar features, such as white fabric and floor-length skirts. Some women, however, choose to wear a more modern ensemble, like a gown with a hemline that falls just above their knees.

While she wasn't walking down the aisle, Katharine McPhee recently rocked a formal frock that would look beautiful on any blushing bride.

The former American Idol contestant showed up to an event in Foothill Ranch, California, in a dress that featured a few wedding-inspired accents - ivory-colored satin and lace. The shimmery fabric draped elegantly, and stopped just below her thigh to reveal a lace hem.

The songstress paired the gown with an assortment of silver bangles, a cocktail ring and dark-colored pumps, but women who wish to don a similar dress while they exchange vows can wear a simple bracelet and ivory heels.

Whether it's a summer ceremony or an indoor event, a short wedding dress can be just as stylish as traditional, longer gowns - especially when it boasts classic accents.

Select your wedding dress' hue based on your skin tone
7/30/2010

While some women may think that wedding dresses come in one color - white - anyone who has ever shopped for such an ensemble knows that is not the case. From snowflake to eggshell, wedding gowns are available in a wide range of hues.

According to TheKnot.com, there may be some shades that look especially flattering on a blushing bride. Ladies with fair skin or a medium complexion with pink undertones should look for a wedding dress with gentle yellow undertones, such as ivory, as they walk down the aisle.

While the website warns that these gals should stay away from stark white as it can wash them out, women with dark or tan skin will look great when rocking the pure hue. Girls with medium coloring and yellow undertones will dazzle in a champagne gown that boasts subtle pink undertones.

However, there is one color that every bride-to-be should try on - diamond white, which is one shade away from true white. "Eighty percent of the population looks best in a soft, diamond-white dress, which isn't as chalky as a white-white," industry insider Melissa Sweet told the website. "When in doubt, buy diamond white."

Sequins can make any short dress more glamorous
7/30/2010

Whether you are spending a night on the town or attending an elegant affair, adding a bit of glamor to your ensemble is sure to turn heads - and no adornment is more dazzling than sequins. The shiny discs reflect light and make you sparkle.

At the Hollywood premiere of Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World, actress Amanda Crew stole the spotlight in a silver sequined short dress. The sparkling mini surely caught everybody's attention, as she paired the flirtatious frock with sky-high satin pumps.

Of course, some women may not want to wear a short dress that draws that much attention. Instead of donning a sequin-covered frock, select a piece that utilizes sequins sparingly.

Eva Longoria Parker often rocks ensembles that blend chic sophisticate and sultry glamor girl. Her outfit at the Annual Design Care Event in Beverly Hills was no exception. The brunette beauty wore a silver sheath dress that featured a smattering of sequins along the bodice. The remainder of the dress boasted a light sprinkling of the shiny adornments.

Whether you opt for a short dress covered in sequins or one that features sequined accents, a sparkling frock is a great way to look (and feel!) glamorous.

Chiffon semi-formal dresses are extra sweet
7/30/2010

While channeling your inner wild child can be fun, there are times when a girl wants nothing more than to embrace her feminine side. Next time you're in the mood to wear a girlish ensemble, don a chiffon semi-formal dress.

Unlike body-hugging fabrics that can cling to curves, chiffon flows around the body in an inherently demure fashion. The material is sure to make any women feel like a princess.

Eva Mendes often rocks sexy outfits that showcase her voluptuous bod, but the starlet recently switched things up at a Comic-Con party in San Diego, California. The actress looked sweeter than sugar in a peach-colored chiffon dress that featured a halter-like neckline.

Mendes gave the ensemble a bit of her signature sex appeal by showing off her shoulders and legs. Women who opt for a chiffon frock may want to follow her lead and rock a raised hemline - a bit of edge will keep the semi-formal dress from looking too young.

Sweet chiffon dresses are perfect for a romantic date, as the flowing fabric is the epitome of femininity. If you are trying to track down a semi-formal dress like Mendes', you may want to shop online, as hundreds of frocks will be at your disposal with the click of a button.

Angelina Jolie stuns in a sexy formal dress
7/30/2010

When dressing for a big night out, it's common to choose your ensemble based on the tone of the event you're attending. If you are heading to a conservative affair, you may feel most comfortable in a formal dress that is gorgeous but isn't too revealing.

Other occasions, however, allow you to tap into your sexier side and rock a gown that shows a bit of skin. But instead of selecting a traditional cut, why not mix things up with an outfit that boasts some unexpected sex appeal?

Angelina Jolie has been known to don dresses that blur the fine line between sinner and saint, but the black number she wore to the Tokyo premiere of Salt seemed to really celebrate her inner vixen. While the gown seemed shockingly demure from the front - the floor-length frock boasted draped sleeves and a high neck - the actress turned around to reveal a thigh-high slit and a completely open back.

This formal dress highlighted two of Jolie's signature features - her gorgeous tattoos and flawless legs. If you want to wear a sexy gown like Jolie, consider which parts of your body you'd like to showcase, but remember to act like Angelina and keep the ensemble balanced. Tone down an open back with a floor-length skirt or a plunging neckline with long sleeves.

Turn heads with a formal dress that features metallic embellishments
7/30/2010

When shopping for an eye-catching formal dress, women often opt for brightly colored fabric or a dramatic silhouette. But sometimes, it's fun to turn heads with a fresh style. Ladies looking for a new way to make a statement may want to don a gown that features metallic accents.

Since Glee became a pop culture phenomenon, Lea Michele has become a fixture on Hollywood's best dressed lists. And, at a recent event in Los Angeles, California, the lead actress from the hit Fox show added another flawless outfit to her long list of breathtaking ensembles.

Michele walked the red carpet in an attention-grabbing gown, but it wasn't the cut or color that caught our eye - the silver-toned draped dress featured delicate gold embellishments that sparkled in the sunlight.

The Broadway beauty paired the frock with silver peep-toe heels and minimal accessories, allowing the metallic embellishments to take center stage.

Formal dresses that boast gold and silver accents are sure to make a lasting impression, and the shimmery shades work well in any season. But, remember to follow Michele's lead and keep accessories simple to avoid overwhelming the shiny pattern.

Tim Gunn gives advice for finding a dress for fall
7/30/2010

Finding a great formal dress is especially difficult when the event for which you are shopping is months away - how are you supposed to anticipate what styles will be hot next season? However, if you are spending your summer looking for a gown to wear in the fall, you may want to take a bit of advice from fashion guru Tim Gunn.

Instead of a light yellow gown, opt for an emerald, sapphire and ruby-colored formal dresses. "Citrus colors are going to fade out for fall," the Project Runway host told Allure magazine. "Your best bets are rich, saturated jewel tones, which you can definitely wear into next season."

If you prefer soft pinks and sky blues, however, you may want to reconsider purchasing a frock in such a shade. "I never recommend pastels," Gunn told the news source. "They make women look either babyish or dowdy."

While purchasing a formal dress months in advance may seem risky, shopping early provides a plethora of benefits. Because shipping times can vary, ordering a gown ahead of time will help to guarantee that your outfit arrives before the big event, and will give you time to find the perfect accessories.

Embrace your California girl attitude with a bright and bold party dress
7/29/2010

Katy Perry's summer hit California Gurls has been hitting the airwaves for some time now, but you don't need Daisy Dukes and bikinis to embrace the super-feminine style.

Case in point - Peaches Geldof. The British model and socialite was snapped by paparazzi out and about in Los Angeles, dressed to the nines in a look that screamed surfer-girl chic.

Peaches looked pretty adorable in a turquoise, yellow and black number that was cinched with a bold black belt. The tattooed 21-year-old also was also sporting a pair of black and leopard-print peep-toe heels while fighting off the sun's UV-rays with some sizzling retro shades.

Girls hoping to emulate this look but reside outside of the Golden State still have many options. When searching for party dresses, look for ones that contain loud, bold colors. The idea is to seem beach-ready and in the mood to party at the same time.

Women who aren't sure where to begin can start by searching online. Becoming a California-cutie for an afternoon is easy - it just takes patience, determination and time.

Bring the bedroom to the ballroom with a corset-style dress
7/29/2010

Long gone are the days when women would stuff themselves into a button-down corset just to run to the market. Still, ladies who want to embrace this sultry style may be in luck.

Corsets, garments that promote a much-desired hourglass figure, are making a serious comeback at the moment. And, while any woman can don this look in the boudoir, this design is slowly inspiring formal dresses.

Amber Heard, actress and model, recently stepped out in a striking example of this sexy style. The beauty was dressed in a white, strapless, knee-length number that featured a corset bodice. The piece allowed the starlet to embrace her feminine and vixen sides, all at once.

Believe it or not, corsets can also be worn as a woman walks down the aisle. Brides who are daring can don the piece and complement it with a shawl or shrug as they say their "I Dos." Those who want to show off some skin can let loose at the reception and sport the saucy style loud and proud.

Rachel Zoe gives advice on uncovering affordable formal wear
7/29/2010

Rachel Zoe is known for being a stylist to the stars, but the woman wants to reach out to more than those making their living in Tinseltown.

The garment guru spoke with The Huffington Post and gave some inside scoop about finding beautiful - but affordable - formal dresses.

"I think that with what the fashion world is giving up right now at every price point, with all these fast fashion places and everything, you can pretty much find every trend everywhere within any budget. I think that's what's so great about the time we're in right now," she told the news source.

Zoe, who currently stars in the Bravo reality series The Rachel Zoe Project, admits that her dream styling job would be on the set of Mad Men. Still, the woman who has picked out clothes for the likes of Nicole Richie and Cameron Diaz maintains that regular gals out there can think out of the box when choosing formal dresses.

"I don't think people should say, 'Oh, only a celebrity can wear that,' because it's not true," she told the news outlet.

Find a semi-formal dress that flatters your figure
7/30/2010

It seems that the grass is always greener on the other side, doesn't it? While some voluptuous women wish for a leaner frame, some ladies ache for more apparent curves. Instead of pining for a different shape, embrace your body with an ensemble that complements your figure.

A great way to draw attention away from a problem area is to select a frock that highlights your best feature. According to People StyleWatch, girls with a straight figure can rock a short dress that shows off fit legs, while women with wide hips should opt for a number that emphasizes a small waist.

Ladies should also be aware of which styles to avoid when dress shopping, as an ill-fitting gown can ruin a look.

While a straight-across neckline offers a sophisticated simplicity, the magazine warns that the cut may flatten the bust of small-chested women. Instead, a structured neckline can help to carve out a shape.

Curvy girls should stay away from ruched fabrics, which can make figures seem wider, and opt for a body-skimming frock in a matte fabric that will play-up an hourglass figure, the publication reports.

Add an accent color to your wedding dress
7/30/2010

When creating the perfect wedding ensemble, brides traditionally stick to one hue - white. Whether they select ivory, eggshell or snow-colored fabric, anything other than the lightest of shades is often frowned upon.

But some stylish gals may feel inclined to add a burst of color to their outfit. While these lovely ladies could opt for a colorful gown, like Gwen Stefani's dip-dyed pink and white wedding dress or Dita Von Teese's shocking purple number, brides can also opt for a more subtle approach to infuse their getup with color.

Instead of selecting pale toned accessories, pair your wedding dress with bright pieces - but make sure to stick to one hue for a cohesive look. Women can rock royal blue shoes and sapphire jewelry, and funky fashionistas can even don a matching blue manicure.

When selecting your accent color, however, make sure to take your bridesmaid dresses into consideration. You don't want their hues to match or clash with yours, just complement one another.

Those who aren't sure about walking down the aisle with blue fingernails can add color to their outfits once the ceremony is over. A purple wrap will look great, and will keep brides warm on a cool autumn night or in a chilly air-conditioned room.

Jane Krakowski wants to don unique wedding dress
7/20/2010

Jane Krakowski, who is engaged to the debonair clothing designer Robert Godley, is certainly busy these days. Aside from starring on 30 Rock as the ditzy Jenna Maroney, the talented woman just released her latest solo album, The Laziest Girl in Town.

Still, it looks like the beautiful blonde is making time to dish on her dream wedding day wear.

"I loved Gwen Stefani's wedding dress," Krakowski recently told People Magazine. "I'd like to pick something that's nontraditional, whether it's short and a mini skirt or a very high-fashion cocktail dress, or that sort of Gwen Stefani version."

We can see why the former Ally McBeal actress is drooling over Stefani's elaborate wedding dress, as the rocker got hitched to hot hubby Gavin Rossdale in a beautiful number that featured a long, pink train.

Women who are hoping to add a bit of color to their wedding dress should realize they are not alone - in fact, the look is becoming more popular than ever. Girls can sport a gown that features a colorful bow or ribbon around their waistline, or even don a pair of trendy, bright shoes in a unique, eye-catching shade.

Textured bridesmaid dresses will wow the crowd
7/14/2010

Often, brides consider three major elements when selecting bridesmaid dresses - color, cut and fabric. But women may also want to think of a fourth factor - texture! Whether the gowns feature ruffles, ruching or pleats, textured fabric can turn an ordinary dress into an unforgettable ensemble.

At a recent Beverly Hills event, When in Rome star Kristen Bell rocked a blue and white pleated cocktail dress. While the watercolor-like pattern certainly got the blonde beauty noticed, it was the frock's intricately pleated design that held our attention.

However, as texture is often used to emphasize (or downplay) certain areas of the body, selecting such bridesmaid dresses may seem difficult - after all, the women in the bridal party most likely have different body types.

Instead of throwing in the towel, the bride-to-be can ask her gal pals to don textured gowns in the flattering cut of their choice. A woman with a petite frame may choose a frock with ruching across the bust, whereas curvier ladies may prefer a gown with a ruched skirt.

To keep unity, however, the bridesmaid dresses should remain in the same color family. Brides can shop online with their closest friends and email each other pictures until each woman locates the perfect outfit.

The perfect semi-formal dress - when to wear it again
7/29/2010

Picture it - after months of scouring for the semi-formal dress of your dreams, you come across the holy grail of garments. You try it on and, low and behold, it fits like a glove. You love the thing so much that you want to wear it in your sleep.

Still, unless you want to kiss your fashionista ways goodbye, donning the same semi-formal dress at two different events is basically a no-no. No matter how much you adore it, if it's that fantastic, people are bound to remember it.

So, the question remains - what's the basic rule of thumb for sporting the same formal dress again?

First, make sure different people will be attending each event. If you're headed to a wedding for your Aunt Matilda one week and a highbrow cocktail party with work friends the next, you can pretty much guarantee the guest list will be varied.

Also, try to sport unique accessories at each outing. A strapless silvery cocktail dress can look completely different when covered by a shawl or paired with a sexy pair of pumps. Spice it up and the world is your oyster!

Fabric selection and pattern choice are key when selecting formal dress
7/29/2010

Given the wide variety of fabrics and colors, finding the perfect dress can be overwhelming. But InStyle magazine recently compiled a short list of basic style rules to follow when shopping.

The right fabric may be key to a flawless ensemble, and women should pay attention to two components - weight and movement. "If a fabric is too stiff, it can look boxy - too thin, and it may cling to every bulge," the publication reports, adding that cotton blended with silk is typically a good choice.

Investing in pieces constructed from high-quality material may be worth it. According to the magazine, cheaper cloths tends to be less flattering, whereas formal dresses made from quality fabric may look better, last longer and hold their shape.

Patterned formal dresses can look great, but the type of print can influence the frock's impact. Women who don't want to make a bold statement should opt for tonal patterns, like pink on red, as the news source states that combinations such as those attract less attention. Ladies looking for a slimming effect, however, should opt for a pattern with a darker background.

By selecting the right fabric and print, any woman can look flawless in a formal dress. And with these tips, shopping for the gown will be a breeze.

Dark accessories can take a white semi-formal dress into fall
7/29/2010

White semi-formal dresses seem to be a staple of most women's summer wardrobes - they're fun, flirty and fresh. But just because fall is on its way, you shouldn't cease wearing your beautiful light-colored frocks.

Instead of hanging the little white numbers in the back of your closet, take a cue from some of Hollywood's elite and pair your dress with a bold, black accessory.

At the Munich premiere of her latest film, Knight and Day, Cameron Diaz sashayed down the red carpet in a white frock accented with a thick black sash. The starlet emphasized her long legs with a pair of nude-colored peep-toe pumps that made her stems appear never-ending.

Figure skater-turned-actress Julie Benz rocked a similar style to a recent affair. Benz wore an ivory gown cinched by a striking black belt. The blonde beauty completed her outfit with black platform heels.

To really accomplish the autumn transformation, however, throw on a sleek leather jacket or dark, fitted blazer before stepping out at night. Your light-colored frock will look great as the leaves begin to fall.

Kristen Stewart seems to love the little black dress
7/29/2010

While many women love the timelessness of the little black dress, it seems that Kristen Stewart may prefer this look above all others. Whether she's stopping by a talk show or walking down the red carpet, the Twilight star is often spotted sporting a black semi-formal dress.

At a Berlin photocall for The Twilight Saga: Eclipse, K-Stew strutted her stuff in a fitted black sheath dress, accented by a few cobalt blue patches. Later, for the film's New York screening, Stewart wowed the crowd in a dark long-sleeve mini-dress that featured large, plum-colored sequined adornments.

The actress donned a similar frock for an appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman. The black one-arm mini boasted a swatch of silver fabric across her shoulder.

Though the semi-formal dresses all contained different accents, Stewart's three ensembles had more than just color in common. Each body-hugging frock fitted the young starlet perfectly, and featured a thigh-grazing hemline. She also paired the numbers with sky-high black pumps.

While K-Stew's take on the little black dress may not be for everyone, ladies can follow her lead and invest in a few frocks that share similar, figure-flattering commonalities.

Create bridesmaid ensembles using a well-known tradition
7/29/2010

Brides are often told to wear something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue during their wedding ceremony. However, women can put a new spin on this timeless tradition and style their best gals using this well-known adage.

Blue bridesmaid dresses can be a wonderful choice for any ceremony, as different shades can be used to create almost any desired effect. Midnight blues can convey elegance, while cobalt adds a vivid richness to the bridal party. Light teals are ideal in beach ceremonies, while ice blues are gorgeous in winter weddings.

Brides can opt for bridesmaid gowns in one hue, or allow the ladies to select dresses in a variety of tones, creating a gorgeous, monochromatic rainbow.

To accessorize, ladies can wear two pieces of jewelry - one item that they have owned for a few years and another bauble that they borrow from a fellow bridesmaid.

Finally, while the bridesmaid dress can easily count as both your blue and new, spring for a special treat for your gal pals. A recently-purchased pair of shoes, engraved hair clip or fresh manicure are great ways to give your girls something new to don on your big day.

Finding the perfect plus-size wedding dress
7/27/2010

Selecting a wedding dress is never easy - brides of all shapes and sizes obsess over the perfect ensemble for their special day. While some women don formal gowns often, and thus already know how to shop for their shape, other ladies may be starting at square one when looking for their wedding dress.

Full-figured women who don't often wear dresses may feel uneasy when searching for their wedding gown, but with a bit of expert advice, they can easily track down a silhouette that complements their shape perfectly.

According to People StyleWatch, plus-sized ladies have a plethora of options when it comes to the cut of their wedding dress, but should remember the importance of fabric selection. While a matte material can be slimming, a shiny fabric will show every pull.

A gown that features a full skirt can make a woman's upper body look smaller, the publication continues. And, while excess material may seem like it would add extra bulk, a wedding dress with slightly draped fabric that delicately gathers in front can actually help to minimize the stomach.

When selecting a neckline, less fabric may be more. According to the news source, a high-necked style can make a woman seem top-heavy, but a square or sweetheart neck can subtly highlight décolletage.

A sheath dress for any shape
7/27/2010

Whether you are attending a cocktail party or are meeting your boyfriend's parents, a sheath dress is a classic style appropriate for many different occasions. But, which one is best for one's body type? While girls of all shapes can wear this semi-formal dress, women should opt for different types of sheaths depending on their figure.

According to Real Simple magazine, ladies with an hourglass shape should look for waist-enhancing seams and a form-fitting cut, but should avoid heavy and stiff fabrics that don't contour to one's body.

Women with full hips and thighs, however, can wear sheaths that boast a bit more volume and detail on top, to balance out the proportions. The news source also suggests staying away from sleeves that cut off at the wrist, as they will line up with the hips and direct eyes to that very area.

Girls with a straight figure should keep their eyes peeled for dresses with built-in curves, with darts and seaming to create a defined, feminine silhouette. "You'll know it when you see it because it will have a great shape even on the hanger," industry insider Gregg Andrews told the publication.

Angelina's red gown would be gorgeous for a pageant
7/27/2010

There are a few occasions throughout a woman's life where finding the perfect dress is of the utmost importance, like her senior prom and her wedding day. But girls who compete in pageants may have to deal with this stress more often, as a different gown may be necessary before each new event.

As with many formal gowns, pageant dresses should turn people's heads. Of course, women want to make sure their frock holds their attention as well - from audience members to judges. One way to wow the crowds is to select a dramatic cut in an eye-catching color that no one will forget.

At the Moscow premiere of her new movie, Salt, Angelina Jolie stunned fans in a truly breathtaking number. The sultry siren wore a crimson, floor-length halter gown, which featured slight ruching across the bodice that delicately gathered by her hip.

This flawless frock would be a perfect pageant dress, as the color attracts attention, the cut draws onlookers in and the subtle details keep crowds captivated.

Ladies who are looking for a gorgeous gown to don for their next competition should shop online. They can sort through hundreds of silhouettes until they find the perfect pageant dress to wholly impress the judges.

Blake Lively makes a statement with a unique plunging neckline
7/27/2010

When seeking out the most daring fashion trends, it's almost always safe to look to young Hollywood. These fearless fashionistas are constantly rocking the boldest styles, and one lady who seems to especially revel in this is Blakey Lively.

At the 2009 Emmy Awards, the Gossip Girl star wowed onlookers with a plunging red formal dress that boasted a high slit and an asymmetrical cut-out back, and it looks like the actress is up to her old tricks. Lively stunned fans once again last weekend while promoting her new film, The Green Lantern, at Comic-Con in San Diego, California.

Lively's top was dangerously low, however, it didn't follow the typical V-shape of most plunges. Instead, the structural cut featured a rectangular neckline that seemed to frame her cleavage. The blonde beauty kept the rest of the ensemble conservative, pairing the top with high-waisted black pants.

While her outfit didn't boast a skirt, women looking for a sexy twist on a formal dress may want to follow Lively's lead and opt for a low-yet-structured neckline. The bold cut is sure to turn heads, and the interesting shape of the plunge will keep the outfit looking fresh.

But remember, when donning a gown with this feature, make sure the rest of the piece is tame - additional slits, cuts or openings may show too much skin!

Jools Oliver shows of burgeoning belly in wedding gown
7/27/2010

Jamie Oliver, better known as the Naked Chef, just commemorated his 10-year wedding anniversary with his wife, Jools. The couple certainly has a lot to celebrate - aside from being parents to girls Poppy, Daisy and Petal, Jools is pregnant with their fourth child.

The Daily Mail had a photo of the blushing bride at their shindig, and it's safe to say she looked incredible. Jools was wearing a strapless white wedding dress that featured an empire-waist silhouette. The piece showed off her slim arms and drew attention to her ever-growing belly.

Aside from its style, Jools' gown wowed onlookers with simple, eye-pleasing adornments. The piece featured a number of elegant blossoms sewn into its bodice, calling attention to the woman's femininity as well as her children, who were given flower-inspired names.

Brides-to-be who are expecting should realize that they can still sport a gorgeous wedding gown and look incredible. In fact, many people believe women are at their loveliest when pregnant. No matter what trimester you are in, remember that looking super special on your big day means searching early and deciding what style suits you best.

Pick out perfect shapewear under formal dresses and feel super slim
7/27/2010

Every girl wants to look like a starlet in a new formal dress, but even ones that fit perfectly may show off some uncomfortable areas. Face it - girls come in every shape and size, and sometimes bulging body parts can't be helped.

Rebecca Apsan, owner of La Petite Coquette in New York City and author of The Lingerie Handbook, spoke with StyleList.com and gave women the secret to looking super-slim at their next soiree.

"Shapewear and control garments are something every woman needs to have in her wardrobe," she told the news source. "You never know when you are going to need something to hold you in and smooth you out."

Brides-to-be can heed Apsan's advice as well. For women who are headed down the aisle, the undergarment expert recommends choosing skin-colored shapewear.

"You always wear nude under white," she told the news source. "Many women think you wear white under white in order to be invisible, but that is not true."

No matter what, girls should make sure to shop early for formal dresses - and control garments - well in advance of their event. Planning ahead means feeling perfect in your gown!

Achieve Hollywood elegance with a butter-colored formal dress
7/27/2010

When selecting the perfect color for a formal dress, women often go one of two ways - they are likely to choose a bright color, like fire engine red or cobalt blue, or stick with the basic shade of black or white. But there is one hue which is sure to be striking yet elegant, and quietly garner attention - a light, buttery yellow.

Unlike the bold canary, rich mustard and soft vanilla, this lemon chiffon-like tone is subtle enough to maintain a simple elegance, but interesting enough to make heads turn. And, when combined with the right fabric, a gown becomes irresistible.

Dita Von Teese recently wore a butter-colored formal dress at amfAR's annual Life Ball in Vienna. The frock's shiny fabric was gathered in the front with a large jeweled adornment, and flowed behind her in an breathtaking train. Paired with a sleek updo and bright red lipstick, the burlesque star looked like the epitome of Old Hollywood glamor in this strapless light yellow number.

Regardless of the season, women searching for the perfect color to wear to a gala, charity ball or formal event should consider selecting an elegant, butter-colored dress.

Primary colors are wonderful for formal dresses
7/26/2010

Jason Wu, design expert and stylist to scores of fashionistas around the world (including Michelle Obama), knows his clothes. So when the talented guy gave the scoop in InStyle on what formal dresses were in vogue at the moment, we were all ears.

Wu advised women to keep their eye out for primary colors, which are perfect for the upcoming fall.

"Some grown-ups believe bright reds, yellow and blues belong only on children's clothes, but I never tire or eye-catching primary hues," he wrote in the news source.

However, the talented stylist also recommended that women take some chances by incorporating accents in a surprising shade.

"I just indulge in a little tonal adjustment: scarlet with a dose of orange, golden mustard yellow or a deep cornflower blue. This way you get the rush of the familiar plus a dash of the unexpected," he wrote in the news outlet.

We think this is a great idea - primary colors are pretty standard, but when spiced up with a dash of another hue, a formal dress is bound to be a hit!

Grecian formal dresses - wear them and feel like a goddess
7/26/2010

Ancient Greece brought the world many things, but the one we may adore the most is the Grecian dress. The elegant design evokes feelings of royalty, grace and beauty from the very instant it's put on.

But what defines Grecian style? According to Fashion-Era.com, ladies during this era "wore a floor length dress called a Greek chiton. In early times, the Doric chiton was made from fabric which was the height of the wearer, plus 12 inches."

Today, the look is embodied by a formal dress created from soft, flowy material and sewn together in an empire-shaped silhouette. And while the traditional color - white - works wonderfully with this trend, girls should remember that the look can work with every color of the rainbow.

In fact, Natasha Alam, an actress and undisputed beauty, recently showed up to an event dressed in a light purple formal dress that was inspired by the idea. The radiant Russian's frock fell to the floor and was scrunched together right below her bosom.

When all is said and done, is there any dress design so lovely out there? Let men wear their togas - women will always have the Grecian dress.

Floral prints - the dress so nice, you can wear it twice
7/26/2010

The warmer months often bring many things, but our favorite of all may be floral prints. The pattern is synonymous with the spring and summer, and the design looks incredible on ladies of all shapes, height and styles.

Still, many girls don't realize how versatile floral prints can be. While a dress adorned with images of ultra-feminine blossoms may seem fabulous for a quick jaunt to the mall with a group of gal pals, the piece can quickly morph into a semi-formal dress. All you need is a little creativity - and the right pair of shoes.

Whitney Port, the striking reality starlet, showed up to an event in Las Vegas fully embracing this trend. The beautiful blonde had on a flowy pink, green and black mini-dress that accentuated her mile-long, luscious legs.

Port was sporting a pair of flip-flops with her piece, which was appropriate for the daytime event. However, we couldn't help but imagine how a sky-high pair of heels would turn the casual ensemble into a getup fit for a night on the town.

Ladies searching for semi-formal dresses should try to remember this style secret. Finding one dress and two pairs of shoes will save yourself the time and money - while allowing you to dress for success the whole day long!

Cobalt Blue is oh-so-beautiful
7/26/2010

The color blue is associated with many emotions, but when we look at this striking hue, one feeling comes to mind - wonderment.

So it's no surprise that starlets have been donning this unforgettable tone as if it's the next big Hollywood trend. But it seems that one particular shade has been garnering much attention lately - cobalt blue.

The first celeb to bust out a bodacious blue semi-formal dress was none other than model and actress Brande Roderick. The former Baywatch babe stepped out at her book signing in a body-hugging cobalt number that featured a very sexy V-neck.

Never one to miss a trend, Gwyneth Paltrow sported the unforgettable shade as well - on the cover of this month's Vogue. Gwyneth's frock featured a daring, plunging neckline that accentuated her super-hot bod.

Those who are searching for the ideal semi-formal dress at the moment may want to check out different styles in this striking shade. When it comes down to it, the power of cobalt blue should not be underestimated.

Throw a fur jacket over a semi-formal dress and look spectacular
7/26/2010

While fur is as fancy as can be, rocking a semi-formal dress in this material may seem silly. Still, girls who want to sport this look, whether it's faux-fur or the real deal, should take a cue from Joe Zee, the creative director of Elle Magazine.

The fashionable stylist recently gave the hairy details on how to work this fluffy fad.

"[A fur vest] can also be versatile enough for any climate or occasion. You can rock it three out of four seasons a year and, more importantly, wear it to work or out at night," he wrote in the news source.

Zee showed off his stylistic know-how by dressing up a bunch of the interns in faux-fur accessories. One of his test subjects, a beautiful brunette named Jade, looked just smashing in a light purple, long-sleeved cocktail dress that was complemented by a beautiful pair of black booties. Zee capped off her look with a snow leopard-print faux-fur vest.

"I layered it over a spot of color, keeping the look sporty but with an extra dose of sexy appeal," he said in the news outlet.

Shop cheap, look like a million bucks
7/26/2010

Some girls think that a new semi-formal dress is needed for every soiree they attend. While this sounds incredible, a hefty budget is needed to make this work!

Believe it or not, it's possible to change things up with a few staple dresses. The key is to accessorize and think outside the box.

Ashley Benson, who stars in the new ABC Family show Pretty Little Liars, spoke with StyleList.com about the series' costume designer, Mandi Line.

"Mandi is so great with creating outfits," Benson told the news source. "She buys a lot of basic pieces and then adds fabric or lace to tops, adds studs to jeans, and she makes a lot of jewelry as well. It's all so cheap and unique, and you'll be the only person wearing it."

Girls scouring through formal dresses at the moment may want to test out Line celebrity style secret. Single-color, floor-length gowns can look unique and different when paired with different jewelry, a different belt, or a variety of high heels.

It looks like Benson has the right idea when it comes to this trend.

"It's nice to buy less expensive clothes and make them dope by adding a few things that reflect your personal style," she told the news outlet.

The (extremely) little black dress - how to wear it like a pro
7/26/2010

It seems like the Little Black Dress (LBD) has been a staple for women since the dawn of time. The item can often be dressed up or down, depending on accessories, jewelry and shoes.

This summer, one of the hottest trends making its way onto the sizzling bodies of celebs is a teeny-tiny version of the LBD. Still, gals who mimic starlets may be left wondering - how small can one possibly go?

Heather Graham, an indisputable beauty, showed up to the premiere of Countdown to Zero in New York City in a particularly miniature version of this iconic fashion piece. The sultry blonde had on a strapless, formfitting LBD that was perfectly-matched with a fierce pair of gladiator shoes.

Creating an even bigger stir was the one-and-only Angelina Jolie, who stepped out at a premiere for her new thriller, Salt, in a wee sampling of the LBD. The piece allowed the super-slim actress to show some skin and strut her stuff.

Women who are looking through semi-formal dresses shouldn't be fearful of a mini LBD. Those who want to look especially elegant in the piece can also choose to wear a simple pair of ballet flats, or sport a soft, dignified shawl.

 

Different dresses to keep you looking sexy
7/22/2010

When women want to show some skin, they will often don a short dress or a frock with a plunging neckline. This summer, take a risk and try a new cut that will keep you looking sexy in unexpected ways.

"There's no style more 'so right now' than a revealing cutout dress," reports Glamour.com. Whether you choose side cutouts or a peek-a-boo keyhole, the flash of flesh is sure to garner attention. But remember to refrain from too many missing pieces - your dress shouldn't look slashed, just sultry.

Ladies ready to show off their arms can rock a sexy halter dress. According to the news source, a V-shaped neckline will draw attention toward your face and biceps.

If you are too timid to show off too much in the front, why not select a dress with an open back? When wearing this cut, however, the website suggests pinning up your hair, as a high bun can make your neck look long and lean, and emphasize the gorgeous plunge.

However, sometimes a short dress is just right, and donning a nude-colored number may be the sexiest statement of all - a frock that matches your skin tone is sure to turn heads. Pair the ensemble with a pair of sky-high heels and you'll be ready for wherever the night takes you.

Show a bit of leg with a plunging hemline
7/22/2010

It's undeniable that a high hemline is sexy, but sometimes a woman feels a bit too bare in a short dress. Ladies who love their legs, but aren't comfortable in a thigh-grazing mini, can take a cue from Hollywood's hottest stars and rock a frock with a plunging hem.

At the London premiere of her new film, Inception, French actress Marion Cotillard wore a black lined, multi-colored dress - but it wasn't the gown's pattern that caught our attention. While the dress' hem stopped just above the starlet's knees in the front, the skirt flowed down at the sides, hitting Cotillard mid-calf.

Those who think Cotillard's frock is still a bit too daring can opt for a dress that is shorter in the front, yet longer in the back. This dramatic cut is great for women who want to model their toned calves, but are worried about a short dress riding up in the back.

Finding a dress with the perfect hemline can be tricky, so women who want to don this trend should start their search early to ensure they locate the ideal ensemble for their upcoming event. Shopping online allows girls to view hundreds of dresses, and they can pore over the pages until they see the dress of their dreams.

Pair a formal dress with high heels, and stay comfortable
7/22/2010

There are few feelings better than finding the perfect formal dress for an upcoming event, and when the big night comes, you'll want your gown to look its best. A gorgeous pair of high heels is a great way to accent your fancy frock, but the shoes may wreak havoc on your feet.

Instead of sacrificing style for comfort, strap on those stilettos and follow a few tips to help keep your feet feeling great throughout the night.

If your shoes are new, or if you have yet to wear them, break-in the heels before the event. Camilla Morton, author of How to Walk in High Heels, told Glamour.com to wear your stilettos to the supermarket. "As you stock up on groceries, use the cart for balance while your feet get used to the new high heel."

Once you've worn the heels, assess where you feel discomfort, as those are the areas that will become painful after four hours of wear, shoe expert and author Meghan Cleary told the news source. Invest in padding or bandages to keep the shoes from harming your feet.

Finally, before you leave for the affair, "Scratch the bottom of your soles with sandpaper," runway coach J. Alexander told the news provider. Doing so will help create traction and may reduce the risk of a slip-and-fall.

Pink, white and black - three colors that can do no wrong
7/22/2010

Is Holly Madison the world's most adorable pseudo-celeb? By the looks of her recent getup on the red carpet, we're leaning towards a resounding "yes."

The former Girls Next Door reality star showed up to an event in Las Vegas sporting three of the most wonderful, eye-pleasing colors - pink, white and black. The pin-thin Playmate reminded every girl out there that pairing these three hues together is one of the wisest choices in the world.

Girls who are in the midst of uncovering the ultimate semi-formal dress may want to follow Madison's lead. Try to choose a pink cocktail piece that features small black details and pair it with shiny white heels. Or, look for a black mini-number that has a white ribbon, and sport pink ballet flats along with it.

Girls should be sure to stay true to their own sense of style. Still, those who are unsure of what colors to wear at their next big event should remember that pink, white and black is a trifecta of terrific-ness.

Spiked formal dresses look oh-so-nice
7/22/2010

Spikes are often associated with biker babes and motorcycles, yet the look can also scream hardcore-chic. Believe it or not, women who don't have a zillion tattoos and body piercings can work formal dresses with this prickly accessory.

Leave it to Kristin Cavallari, star of The Hills and self-appointed vixen, to sport this trend loud and proud. The bodacious babe was photographed at the Los Angeles premiere of Salt in a striking grey number that featured a set of sizzling, spiky shoulders.

This look is so rockin' that it's being found on the upper bodies of women everywhere. In fact, in a scene from Sex and the City 2, Samantha Jones was dressed in a vibrant red dress that featured a number of thorny shoulder details. The striking number also had on a bunch of sexy silver chains. Meow!

Women who want to embrace their inner Joan Jett but still want to look feminine should know they have options. Start searching for formal dresses and gowns early, and the perfect number is bound to fall in your lap.

Find a gorgeous wedding dress for a wedding at city hall
7/21/2010

Some women spend months - and sometimes years! - planning their walk down the aisle. Of course, there are others who skip the whole shebang and instead make quick trip to City Hall.

If you're a bride who's about to elope, never fear. You can still look fabulous this season before you sign on the marriage certificate's dotted line.

According to StyleList.com, brides who are going for a simpler look when they enter wedded bliss should select cheaper, more affordable numbers.

"Summertime provides innumerable opportunities for finding great white dresses. You can also get most bridesmaids dresses in white," the news source reports.

Women who want to cut down on costs may also want to scour online for great deals. The summer wedding season is coming to a close, and online stories are currently offering dresses at incredible prices.

Of course, brides-to-be shouldn't hesitate to look for formal dresses or bridesmaid dresses specifically in the color white.

"Once you cut out the term bridal gown, chances are you'll be shelling out less cash. And people generally won't be the wiser," the news source reports.

White formal dresses - they're not just for weddings anymore
7/21/2010

While the color white is synonymous with wedding dresses, believe it or not, a woman can don this hue on occasions other than a walk down the aisle. Still, girls who adore this shade and want to sport it at the next formal event should tread carefully.

For starters, the general rule of thumb is to never, under any circumstances, don the color white at another gals' wedding. A bride is meant to be the center of attention at her own shindig, and this tint is especially reserved for her.

Of course, there are places where girls can put on this color and wear it proud.

Mel B., the former Spice Girl and talented beauty, showed up to an event at Tao Nightclub in Las Vegas and looked wonderful in white. The gorgeous vocalist was sporting a body-hugging number that showed off her voluptuous figure and spectacular cleavage.

Women can emulate Mel B. and choose a white dress when heading out to a club or late-night party. The light shade will also help a woman stand out and grab the attention of people in the room!

Wear the right shoes for your body type
7/21/2010

While unearthing a picture-perfect formal dress is often a splendid experience, there's one hard cold truth every woman must face - if your tootsies aren't looking stylish, you might as well pack it up and go home.

Still, finding the most fashionable footwear can be a challenge for many trend-conscious women.

Sam Saboura, celebrity stylist and host of My Body, My Style, recently spoke with StyleList.com and gave them some inside shoe scoop.

"A woman with a fuller foot or a fuller ankle is going to benefit from shoes that are pointier or have a V-style at the vamp of the shoe - the same way a V-neck minimizes a fuller bust and a fuller shoulder line," he told the news source.

We think this is fantastic advice. And, ladies who want to appear even slimmer can pick out an ensemble entirely in black.

Still, it looks like Saboura knows what he's talking about when it comes to looking and feeling fantastic.

"At the end of the day you have to wear what you love and wear what you feel the best in," he told the news source.

Finding an age-appropriate semi-formal dress
7/20/2010

When girls need to select a semi-formal dress, they often want a style that will make them appear grown up, while mothers prefer they don an age-appropriate frock. However, when looking toward young Hollywood, the two ideas aren't mutually exclusive.

Teen queen Selena Gomez, star of Nickelodeon's Wizards of Waverly Place, recently stepped out on the red carpet at Miami's Fashion Week Swim. The Ramona and Beezus actress looked just her age in a sleek magenta dress that fell just above her knees.

Instead of choosing a body-hugging fit that may appear too mature on the young starlet, Gomez opted for a one-shouldered number that gathered slightly at her waist. The frock's fuchsia shade was also spot-on, as the fun color was fashion-forward, while still appearing young and fun.

Gomez, who turns 18 later this month, can serve as an inspiration to young girls (and their moms) who are shopping together to find an ideal semi-formal dress. Mothers can search online with their daughters, and browse hundreds of styles until they find the perfect gown that is both age-appropriate and stylish.

How to wear a short dress to a wedding
7/20/2010

In many areas, late summer weddings are some of the hottest you can attend, and as temperatures climb, so do the hemlines. But even on the most sweltering of days, guests should make sure their short dresses are appropriate for the occasion.

According to People.com, Ciara recently wore a controversial frock to LaLa Vasquez's wedding - a semi-formal dress that grazed her thighs. While the singer certainly has the gorgeous legs to pull of this look, some wondered if the thigh-high dress was inappropriate for a wedding.

While each woman seems to have her own rules for selecting the perfect length, typically a dress that falls just above the knees is safe for a ceremony and reception. Girls who want to keep their legs covered but still desire a cool frock can opt for a longer length, but an open back.

But remember, if rocking a raised hemline, make sure the rest of the gown isn't too revealing - a mini may look cute, but a mini with a low neckline (or an even lower back) may become instantly inappropriate.

Also, while pairing a short dress with sky-high platforms may make you feel ultra-sexy, save the shoes for a night out and instead don a pair with a modest heel.

January Jones is beautiful in architectural hemlines
7/20/2010

Unique formal dresses are all the rage now, and these trendy pieces show no signs of slowing down. In fact, A-list celebrities have been hitting the red carpet dressed in striking ensembles that feature inspiring, non-linear hems.

According to FabSugar.com, "architectural hemlines...are all about geometrics. Whether it's a slight dip down, full-on asymmetrical cut, or intricate layers, these uneven hems give off a fresh vibe no matter the occasion."

It looks like January Jones, the stunning model-turned-actress who stars as Betty Draper in the hit series Mad Men, has joined the masses and is now embarking on this trend. The leggy lady stepped out recently at the ESPY awards in an unbalanced frock with a noticeable architectural hem.

January paired her head-turning outfit with a pair of simple black pumps, while showing off her sexy tousled hair.

Women who want to incorporate this fad into their next formal dress can do so without seeming too adventurous. Girls should consider picking out a striking piece that has a unique hemline, but pair it with a simple pair of shoes.

Kim Kardashian tells InStyle how to dress a curvy frame
7/20/2010

There are many questions curvy women must answer when searching for the perfect dress - where should the frock hug, and where should it hang loose? But with a few tips from Kim Kardashian, famous for her own bodacious bod, dressing an hourglass shape can be simple.

According to the reality television starlet, shapely women should avoid oversize dresses. "I know they are comfortable and they look amazing on Nicole Richie, but flowy tops and dresses are not flattering on a curvy figure," she told InStyle magazine. "They can make you look pregnant and they look sloppy in photos."

Instead, luscious ladies should accent their smallest feature. "Show off that tiny waist!" Kardashian added. Curvy girls can look for formal dresses that feature waist-cinching sashes, and can accessorize party frocks with a beautiful belt.

Finally, women should also find a great tailor to ensure that their gown fits their figure flawlessly. "Anything you wear should be proportioned to your body, and a good tailor will make sure everything fits perfectly," the brunette beauty told the publication. "Shortening a hem line on a dress can make a huge difference!"

Kelly Rowland rocks a long-sleeved mini-dress
7/20/2010

When it comes to looking sexy in formal wear, girls have plenty of options. Women can either choose a mini-dress that shows off their legs or a strapless number that highlights their shoulders.

Of course, picking a semi-formal dress that features both of these details can be tricky. While it's always wonderful to flaunt certain body parts, if a girl wants to look refined, sometimes less can be more.

Kelly Rowland, the beautiful chanteuse and former member of Destiny's Child, showed up to an event in Nashville, Tennessee, exuding sexiness and class. The talented woman donned a remarkable black and white mini-dress that featured elegant long sleeves.

This is a wonderful look for women scouring through semi-formal dresses at the moment. Girls can also pair a piece such as Rowland's with sky-high pumps, which will give their legs more length and allow them to feel like the most luscious woman in the room.

Keeping one's arms covered always adds a bit of mystery to a look. Remember, those who want to snag the attention of onlookers shouldn't give everything away at once!

Lauren Conrad pairs her short dresses with high heels
7/19/2010

Fans of The Hills have tuned into the show for years for a plethora of reasons. While some wanted to see what evil plot Speidi would orchestrate next, others sat glued to the screen to check out what Lauren Conrad was wearing.

Even after the show ended, Conrad gave her fashion-followers one last treat. At the series finale party in Hollywood, the reality star wowed the crowd in a green and gold short dress that showed off her great legs, which were further emphasized by sky-high taupe pumps.

However, L.C.'s fans shouldn't be surprised that she paired a short frock and high heels. The blonde beauty recently spoke to People Magazine about her style.

"When I want to look sexy, I wear my highest heels," Conrad told the publication. "I [also] add lashes to my eyes to look extra pretty."

According to the news source, when wearing a short white number, Conrad has one secret weapon. "I love a good tan against a white dress," the The Hills alum said, adding that she opts for self-tanner, not baking on a beach.

Make a statement in a paillette-covered wedding dress
7/19/2010

When selecting a wedding dress, there are certain fabrics that women seem to prefer. Lace, satin and tulle are often decorated with soft ruffles, intricate buttons and floral adornments. But fashion-forward brides may want to consider a new type of accent - paillettes.

Paillettes are decorative trimmings that add depth and texture to a gown in a fresh yet simple way. Women unsure of the material, however, can look to some of Hollywood's leading ladies, who have embraced this fantastic style.

Jada Pinkett-Smith looked flawless at the London premiere of her son's new movie The Karate Kid. Jaden's mom glowed in a one-shoulder sheath dress covered in iridescent cream-colored paillettes.

While Pinkett-Smith chose a mini-dress, the paillettes would have been just as beautiful on a long white frock. In fact, at the 2008 Academy Awards, La Vie en Rose star Marion Cotillard wore a floor-length ivory gown that featured silver-lined paillettes. Later that night, the French beauty took home the golden statuette for Best Actress.

Brides looking for a bold way to adorn their wedding dress should take a tip from the stars and don a gown covered in shimmering paillettes.

Pair a colorful dress with neutral-colored accessories
7/19/2010

Colorful, short dresses are hot this season, and stars around the world are rocking fun frocks in bold hues. But when you're dressed in a bright little number, picking out the appropriate accessories can be a challenge.

Instead of searching high and low for the perfect complementary shade, why not pair your get-up with neutral-colored accents?

Unlike black, which can seem too formal for a daytime or casual affair, and white, which may feel too stark, beige is a wonderful tone that can match any bright-colored fabric you happen to find.

Eva Longoria Parker recently stepped out at The First Annual Benefit Hosted by Los Angeles Nomadic Division, wearing a cobalt blue frock. The Desperate Housewife paired the bold-colored short dress with a tan clutch and heels.

Meanwhile, halfway across the globe at the Ischia Global Film and Music Festival in Italy, Heather Graham donned a strapless fuchsia number with beige strappy sandals.

Beige is a perfect accent color for bold summer brights, and the neutral hue will also look smashing against rich autumnal shades and cool winter tones.

Plaid - the perfect pattern for a party dress
7/19/2010

While plaid patterns often call to mind images of 90s grunge rockers or Scottish garb, there are ways to work this design when headed to an event. Women may not believe it, but plaid can be especially fab.

Tina Fey, one of the most beautiful funny-ladies out there today, made an appearance at an off-Broadway event recently rocking this pretty pattern. The 30 Rock star was snapped by paparazzi in a party dress that featured a black short-sleeve top and a flowy blue plaid skirt.

As usual, Fey dazzled the crowd with her loveliness. While some may believe her getup was rather low-key, Tina titillated onlookers with a plunging neckline and tussled wavy hairdo. The woman even sported a pair of ballet flat shoes, proving that gals who want to look even dressier in this design can instead opt for heels.

While plaid might not be the best option for formal events, the pattern is a perfect way to seem unique and original at a party. Wear it and have a ball.

Kate Bosworth is beautiful in beige
7/19/2010

Kate Bosworth is beautiful and talented, so it's no wonder she's taken up with rumored beau Alexander Skarsgard, actor and super-hottie from the hit show True Blood. Still, after looking at the gal's getup from a recent event in Beverly Hills, we'd like to sink our teeth into her wardrobe.

Bosworth attended an outdoor garden party in an autumnal beige cocktail dress that was accentuated by neutral accessorizes. The Blue Crush star also donned a pair of cream-colored strappy heels and was carrying a lovely blue and beige clutch purse.

In addition, Bosworth was caught sporting a belt in a darker brown hue. According to FabSugar.com, "the tan belt breaks up the monochrome neutrals while a funky embellished bag adds a touch of whimsy." We have to agree!

Ladies who are searching for cute cocktail dresses can take a hint from Bosworth and spend their time searching for the appropriate accessories. While the right dress certainly matters, the finishing touches can often make or break a look.

Short wedding dresses can be trendy and cute
7/19/2010

Most brides fantasize about wearing an elaborate, princess-style wedding dress with a 20-foot train. Still, it goes without saying that there are women out there who desire a more mellow marital celebration.

Good news - according to the Los Angeles Times, short wedding dresses may be the next big thing.

"I don't think a length is as important as the design and the feeling of the dress," Randy Fenoli of TLC's Say Yes to the Dress, told the news source. "You could have a modern chic dress that's very slim and ruched and tight-fitting that could be great for a chic, modern wedding or a fluffy ruffled short dress that's very fun and frilly for a fun atmosphere."

The news source points to television shows such as Mad Men for the mod-inspiration and Sex and the City for sparking women's desire to show off their footwear on their big day. Still, Fenoli maintains that short wedding dresses can make a bride look fantastic.

"The average height of a woman is 5-foot-5 and petite starts at 5-foot-4. Having something with a natural waistline or empire waistline will make her legs look longer," he told the news source.

A train can add drama to a wedding dress
7/16/2010

When selecting a wedding dress, it seems as though there are an endless amount of components to consider, from the cut to fabric choice to beading. But brides looking to add a bit of glamour and a touch of drama to their wedding day ensemble may want to choose a gown with a long train.

Long trains make a bold statement when women walk down the aisle, as cascading fabric flows elegantly behind them. And it seems that brides, both famous and fictional, are donning wedding dresses with these memorable additions.

According to People.com, Megan Fox rocked a 16-foot train when she wed Brian Austin Green. Meanwhile, New York Magazine reported that Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden wore a gown that featured a 16.5-foot train.

Even fictional characters are embracing this elegant and dramatic trend. When choosing a wedding dress for the character of Rosalie in The Twilight Saga: Eclipse, costume designer Tish Monaghan selected a gown with a 10 or 12 foot train.

"We made a silk train for her that floated down the hallway...a fan would blow up her veil so that it was trailing behind her. It looked wonderful," Monaghan told EW.com.

Cocktail-length bridesmaid dresses can be exceptionally elegant
7/16/2010

It seems that every bride swears to her bridal party that they will get great use out of their bridesmaid dresses, and that the frocks can be worn again and again. But many women may not have a lot of reasons to step out in floor-length gowns too often.

A cocktail-length frock, however, may enable the bridesmaids to wear the ensemble long after the wedding day has passed. And, with the appropriate material and color choice, brides who fear that shortened gowns may look too casual for their celebration need not worry.

Marion Cotillard attended the Los Angeles premiere of her film Inception, and wore a gown that fell just below her knees. The French beauty looked glamorous in the cocktail-length sapphire-colored jaquard dress, as the rich hue and textured fabric added elegance to the shortened frock.

While cocktail-length bridesmaid dresses are perfect for a summertime wedding, brides can also outfit their bridal party in the silhouette in colder months. Women should select gowns in deeper colors and thicker fabrics, or pair the shortened number with a beautiful wrap.

Finding the perfect little black dress
7/16/2010

There are certain pieces that every woman should have in her closet, but perhaps the most integral item is the little black dress. This versatile number can be dressed up (or down) with the right accessories, but may also stand alone as a striking ensemble with nothing more than a great pair of heels.

"Every woman knows she should have a little black dress," celebrity stylist Nicole Chavez, who has worked with stars including Rachel Bilson, Kristen Bell and Scarlett Johansson, told InStyle magazine. "But it's important to invest in one that's special."

Instead of picking out a plain cut, Chavez suggests finding a frock with a distinctive detail, such as an interesting sleeve or an embellished belt, to make the black number unique.

However, the semi-formal dress should do more than just look great on a hanger. "Finding the right fit is important!" the stylist added.

Women on the hunt for an ideal little black dress may want to begin shopping online, as they can sort through a variety of silhouettes until they find the style that suits them best.

Don a wedding dress similar to Bella's gown
7/16/2010

Literature is filled with love stories, from Romeo and Juliet to Cleopatra and Marc Antony. And today, people all over the world are aching to add one more couple to that list - Bella and Edward.

In series' fourth novel, The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn, the fated lovers tie the knot in a romantic ceremony. If you are exchanging vows in the near future, let the images created by Stephanie Meyers inspire your wedding dress.

"The narrow sheath of the shimmering white dress flared out subtly at the train almost like an inverted calla lily," says Bella, in the novel, who added that the gown also included a long line of pearl buttons running down the back.

When asked about bringing such a style to life, one designer told InStyle magazine, "I saw a romantic bias cut ivory gown made of liquid silk charmeuse and antique Alencon lace with covered back buttons that nod to Edward's Victorian upbringing."

If you wish to capture the drama and romance of Bella's wedding dress, you can shop online and peruse hundreds of gowns until you find the number that best expresses your fairytale fantasy.

Insiders use Twilight as inspiration for bridesmaid dresses
7/16/2010

With The Twilight Saga: Eclipse taking the nation's movie-watching public by storm, it's no surprise that many are already eagerly awaiting the next film in the series, which will feature Bella and Edward's wedding. If you're a fan of the franchise, let the epic love story provide inspiration for your bridesmaid dresses.

Recently, InStyle magazine asked several wedding industry insiders to read passages from Stephanie Meyers' The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn, and give ideas as to how to recreate the wedding.

According to the story, Bella's bridal party was outfitted in flowing silver fabric that shimmered. "[We pictured bridesmaid dresses and] the flowing waves of silk chiffon over charmeuse lend the formality required for such a momentous occasion," designers Beth Blake and Melissa Akey told the news provider.

However, you can dress your closest friends in separate styles to match their differing personalities. "Alice is the fashionista...we pictured Alice choosing a dress that's stylish but not overly so...like a one-shoulder gown," the experts revealed.

But Rosalie, who is "notoriously proud of her beauty," may choose a different frock. "She wouldn't be able to resist adding a few glamorous touches to her ensemble," Blake and Akey added, "Be it the gorgeous draping of silk crepe at the hip or the elegant shimmer of her crystal belt."

Bridesmaid shoes with bows on the toes add an extra, cute look
7/16/2010

When it comes to picking out bridesmaid dresses, women often spend time fussing over the look, cut and style. While these are important details, there's one accessory which should not be forgotten - bridesmaid shoes.

Those who want their bridesmaids to look extra girly while they lead them down the aisle have many different options available to them. In fact, a trend that is finding its way onto the lower extremities of young starlets are shoes with bows on them.

Brooklyn Decker, fashion model and trendsetter, recently made an appearance at the ESPY Awards looking nothing less than flawless. The gorgeous blonde was sporting a body hugging pink cocktail dress that featured a number of sewn-in stripes.

What caught our attention, however, was Decker's footwear. The leggy lady had on an adorable pair of pumps that featured the design of a bow right by her toes.

Women who are hoping to give their wedding party an especially feminine feel may want to use this design to outfit their bridesmaids. The look will be fabulous in photos and give your girls some extra pizazz.

Don a high-neck formal dress for your next big affair
7/16/2010

In a fashion world where daring reigns supreme, celebrities are continually taking chances on the red carpet. From Jennifer Lopez' infamous green revealing dress she sported at the Grammys to Bjork's wacky swan dress she donned at the Oscars, it seems that when it comes to choosing formal dresses, it pays to think outside of the box.

So why shouldn't regular girls who are sifting through formal dresses to wear at the next big affair follow this trend? Of course, people don't need to take it as far as today's film starlets, but putting on something unique and different has its benefits.

Ashley Greene, star of The Twilight Saga: Eclipse and budding fashionista, gave some inspiration for gals who want to don something daring at the next soiree they attend. The beautiful brunette was snapped in a striking scarlet semi-formal dress that featured a surprisingly high neck.

While this look is not for every girl out there, a turtleneck cut will certainly turn heads. Women should take a cue from fashionable risk-takers such as Ashley, and see if it fits their sense of style.

Bethenny Frankel looks pretty in pink
7/16/2010

Is there any other color in the world as pretty, feminine and loveable as pink? Often thought of as the most girlish hue in the world, pink allows a woman to embrace her inner princess no matter what shape, style and cut of formal dress she decides to wear.

Bethenny Frankel, star of The Real Housewives of New York, culinary whiz and now new mom to baby Bryn, donned this color at her most recent book signing in New York. The reality star stepped out in a gorgeous strapless hot pink cocktail dress that featured a balloon skirt and was accentuated by a sexy slim belt. The end result was a fun, flirty outfit for an extremely mature woman.

Women who are currently searching through cocktail dresses may want to remember that this color can work wonders for helping them stand out at a soiree. Those who want to channel their dainty side may want to don a light pink color, while girls who are aiming to turn heads can opt for a vibrant hot pink hue.
 

Busty girls can look beautiful in semi-formal dresses

7/15/2010

Showing off cleavage can make a girl feel sexy, but when a gal is a little too blessed in the bosom area, problems might ensue. Often these women struggle with finding semi-formal dresses that flatter their curves but don't solely draw attention to their chest.

Lucky Magazine recently dealt with this issue, and big-breasted women searching for a perfect party dress should take note.

"Tighter does not equal slimmer. Instead, opt for tailored, body-skimming pieces up top and pair them with fuller bottom pieces for balance," the news source advised.

If there's any starlet who is known for being beautiful (and busty) at the moment, it's Christina Hendricks. The Mad Men actress embraced this idea when she recently worked the red carpet in a peach strapless gown that skimmed her upper body and featured a long flowy skirt.

Top-heavy girls who especially want to embrace their curves can pair a full semi-formal dress with a tight, waist-hugging belt. Of course, those who shop early will discover that with a bit of determination, they are bound to find the dress of their dreams.

The wedding tiara - indulge your inner princess
7/15/2010

Every girl envisions becoming a princess on their wedding day, and there are often many ways to make this happen. Donning a large, poofy wedding gown with an elaborate train can take a girl from simpleton to Cinderella in a flash.

And then, of course, there is the tiara. The headpiece, which is often created from sparkling gemstones, is a wonderful accessory for women of all shapes and sizes.

It looks like Carrie Underwood is the latest bride who chose to channel her inner princess. The country singer, who just tied the knot with handsome Canadian hockey player Mike Fisher, gave the details about her tiara to People Magazine.

"Encrusted with more than 40 carats of diamonds, it was a gift from the groom himself," the news source reports.

The new Mrs Fisher isn't the first celebrity to use the iconic accessory to complement her wedding dress. In fact, Britney Spears, Jessica Simpson and Princess Diana are just some of the recognizable names that have put on this headpiece as they entered wedded bliss.

Tim Gunn dishes on how to wear stripes
7/15/2010

Tim Gunn never hesitates to give his two-cents when it comes to fashion, and we're thankful for that. In fact, the style guru and television personality has a monthly advice column for Marie Claire, and his most recent piece is pretty compelling.

Gunn dishes on a very important topic for gals searching for semi-formal dresses - stripes. The Project Runway host suggested readers indulge in this trend, but do their best to wear accessories that are slimming.

"Try narrower stripes and...try belting the item in either a corresponding or contrasting color," he said in the news source.

We think this is a fantastic idea. While stripes are a beloved universal pattern, horizontal ones add volume. Still, it's nice to know that those who want to look as skinny as possible can offset the darling design and still wear the semi-formal dress of their dreams.

Of course, the best thing a girl can do is start shopping early. Finding a dress can often take weeks – if not months – and women want to be sure they are comfortable when they head to their special soiree.

Textured bridesmaid dresses will wow the crowd
7/14/2010

Often, brides consider three major elements when selecting bridesmaid dresses - color, cut and fabric. But women may also want to think of a fourth factor - texture! Whether the gowns feature ruffles, ruching or pleats, textured fabric can turn an ordinary dress into an unforgettable ensemble.

At a recent Beverly Hills event, When in Rome star Kristen Bell rocked a blue and white pleated cocktail dress. While the watercolor-like pattern certainly got the blonde beauty noticed, it was the frock's intricately pleated design that held our attention.

However, as texture is often used to emphasize (or downplay) certain areas of the body, selecting such bridesmaid dresses may seem difficult - after all, the women in the bridal party most likely have different body types.

Instead of throwing in the towel, the bride-to-be can ask her gal pals to don textured gowns in the flattering cut of their choice. A woman with a petite frame may choose a frock with ruching across the bust, whereas curvier ladies may prefer a gown with a ruched skirt.

To keep unity, however, the bridesmaid dresses should remain in the same color family. Brides can shop online with their closest friends and email each other pictures until each woman locates the perfect outfit.

A long-sleeved formal dress with a plunging neckline is perfect for fall
7/14/2010

Though summertime is currently in full swing, invitations will surely begin arriving for autumnal events, and you'll soon be shopping for a formal dress appropriate for colder weather. But just because you must cover up for cooler temperatures doesn't mean you'll have to sacrifice sex appeal.

Hollywood starlet Piper Perabo recently proved this at a New York City screening of her new television series Covert Affairs. The actress donned a long-sleeved, floor-length red frock, perfect for the upcoming chillier seasons, which featured a plunging neckline that kept the actress looking hot!

The daring cut was pleasantly balanced by the gown's long length, loose fit and minimum accessories - she paired the number with a simple updo and a classic red lipstick.

Remember, however, when selecting a formal dress with a bold feature, less is more. Opt for a frock that boasts one sexy element, like a high slit or an open back, and keep the rest of the ensemble conservative.

If you want to mimic Perabo's style and rock a plunging neckline this autumn, start shopping now, as early ordering will ensure your dress will arrive in time for your big event. Browsing online stores will enable you to view hundreds of dresses with the click of your mouse.

A formal dress in lace will steal the show
7/14/2010

When selecting a formal dress, fabric choice can be just as tricky as color and cut selection. Instead of donning a satin or sequined frock, why not opt for a lace dress?

Lace is often a tricky material to wear - dark fabric with a nude underlay may come across as too risqué, while an abundance of light-colored lace can appear too antiquated. But one celebrity recently stepped out on the red carpet and showed the world that a lace dress can also convey chic elegance.

Marion Cotillard dazzled the crowd at the Paris premiere of her new film, Inception. The French actress wore a strapless black lace dress, which was so striking she limited her accessories to a pair of nude-colored sandals.

Cotillard looked neither too sexy nor too conservative in her gown. The black lace featured an open weave and a white underlay, which emphasized the fabric's beautiful floral pattern, while keeping the starlet covered.

Women who are looking for a lacy formal dress can get online to begin shopping right away. As production and shipping times vary, purchasing your dress in advance will ensure that you have a beautiful frock for your big event.

Expert tips to help you figure out the ideal shade of orange
7/8/2010

Women who want to turn heads often opt for a bold color, and orange is a surefire way to make a statement when donning a formal dress. While wearing the hue may be intimidating at first, finding the perfect orange-colored gown is easy, as long as you select the ideal shade.

From the lightest peach to the deepest amber, there is a limitless amount of orange shades, which can be overwhelming. But, according to experts at InStyle Magazine, consider your hair color and skin tone when selecting your gown.

If you have a golden blonde mane, look for cantaloupe-colored formal dresses, as the muted hue will flatter you, the news source reports. Brunette beauties and those with olive skin, however, should opt for a deeper tone, like mango.

Women with a darker complexion can rock a bolder color, according to the news source, and will look ravishing in a tangerine-colored frock.

Ladies looking for a richer hue should consider a burnt orange gown. The deep rust-like tone is a popular shade this season, and an excellent choice for the summer and fall.

To find their ideal shade of orange, women can browse online. Online shopping allows girls to peruse a variety of dresses instantly, and whether they have raven hair or honey-colored locks, it will be a cinch to find an orange-colored formal dress in an ideal shade.

Striped cocktail dresses - simple, yet sexy
7/13/2010

While different dress patterns each have their own benefits, there is a staple design that never fails - stripes. A semi-formal dress designed with this pattern can turn a simple girl into a voluptuous vixen in an instant.

If there's any woman out there who has some curves to show the world, it's Kim Kardashian. The reality star brought out her hourglass figure to LaLa Vazquez' wedding this past weekend and worked it in a body-hugging cream cocktail dress that featured a number of subtle stripes.

While Kim's body type is unique, girls of all shapes and sizes can use this pattern to channel their bootylicious side. In fact, stripes are especially fantastic for super slim women - the design detail gives the appearance of wider hips and a bigger, bangin' bod.

Also, a dress that features stripes doesn't need to be two-toned. As Kim reminded the world, frocks that have the pattern woven into its material are out there.

Women should remember that the best thing to do is start shopping early. Stripes are wonderful, but every girl has their own likes and dislikes.

Carmen Electra lights up a room in a beautiful cocktail dress
7/13/2010

Can Carmen Electra ever look anything less than flawless? Probably not! Still, the model and actress hosted an event in Las Vegas recently looking slightly more electrifying than usual.

Carmen was snapped by paparazzi wowing crowds in a stunning, formfitting cocktail dress, and the one-shouldered piece was a magnificent choice for the evening.

However, there was a striking detail to the number. Carmen's frock featured several shades of blue, with the darkest one starting at her neckline and the lightest hue ending by her knees. The design was both simple and unforgettable, all at once.

Girls searching through formal dresses at the moment can look to Ms Electra for inspiration. Women who are hoping to don a floor-length piece for a special event can wear a gown designed in a single color that combines many different shades.

Sometimes something so simple can take a dress so far. Carmen obviously knows this, and we're so happy she decided to show off this idea loud and proud.

LaLa Vasquez ties the knot in a gorgeous wedding dress
7/12/2010

Stars - they really are just like us! LaLa Vazquez, the former MTV veejay, proved this theory when she tied the knot with her basketball boyfriend Carmelo Anthony this past weekend in a wedding dress fit for a queen but simple enough for any girl in the world.

Vazquez wore a strapless gown that featured multiple layers. It also appeared to be accentuated by a thick belt along her waistline, which showcased her flawless feminine figure.

There was an eye-catching, unique detail to the piece, however. Along the wedding dress' neckline, some material was peeking out from underneath. The addition gave LaLa an intense look while adding some extra zing.

Of course, little add-ons such as this are easy to find on wedding dresses. Perhaps some girls might choose a silk flower blossom to rest on their shoulder, while others would enjoy extra beaded designs on a gown's bodice.

The key for brides-to-be is to hunt down multiple styles online and see what silhouette fits their fancy. Sit back, relax, and let your fingers do the shopping.

Brides who want to make a statement can select a wedding dress with a slit
7/6/2010

Every bride yearns to be the center of attention on her wedding day, and picking the perfect bridal gown is a key component to making that happen. Young women who want to dazzle as they walk down the aisle can look for a boldly cut wedding dress.

Austin Powers siren Elizabeth Hurley recently donned a white gown at the Elton John Foundation's White Tie and Tiara ball, but it was the cut that really turned heads. The curvaceous actress' frock featured an up-to-there slit, which allowed Hurley to flash a bit of her gorgeous legs.

Women who choose to rock a wedding dress with a slit should pay extra attention to the shoes they select to accompany their gown. As the opening will emphasize a girl's legs and calves, ladies should make sure to pick a shoe worthy of the extra attention!

While this style is a great way to keep eyes on the bride throughout the night, women should remember to keep the rest of her ensemble conservative - a plunging neckline or open back may be too racy when paired with a high-cut slit.

Girls with an edge can rock a studded semi-formal dress
7/9/2010

While some gals eagerly embrace the feminine charm of semi-formal dresses, others object to the girlish frocks for fear that they will silence their inner rockstar. But rebels-in-training can add a bit of edge to their ensemble by donning a dress with studded detail.

Though she's a married mother of four, Heidi Klum embraced the rebel within during a recent trip to New York City. The German supermodel stepped out in a short, flowing black dress that boasted a bold stud-trimmed neckline. Klum paired the frock with a pair of equally tough rivet-covered black gladiator sandals.

Girls who wish to rock a studded semi-formal dress should follow Klum's lead and balance the tough adornments with a bit of feminine flair. Selecting a dress that features a flowing skirt or light fabric, as well as a stud-covered waistline, will create a dynamic yet elegant look.

Those trying to track down the perfect semi-formal dress for a special occasion should remember to start shopping well before the event, as production and shipping times can vary.

Once the dress arrives, ladies can select accessories to pair with the frock, but should be careful not to overwhelm the ensemble, as the adornments make a statement on their own.

Megan Fox walked down the aisle in a simple wedding dress
7/9/2010

When selecting a wedding dress, style experts often voice the importance of a great fit over endless adornments, and it even seems as though today's hottest celebrities are taking this advice to heart.

Megan Fox recently wed Brian Austin Green in a private Hawaiian ceremony, and the gorgeous actress donned a classic white gown as they exchanged vows. But instead of wearing an elaborate ensemble, the blushing bride opted for a simply cut frock.

"As beautiful as she is, she didn't need anything extravagant like million dollar diamonds or lots of flowers. She just wanted a simple wedding gown," a source told People Magazine. "It was not the most extravagant dress but it was perfect on her body."

According to the insider, Fox looked stunning in a strapless corset gown, and the Jennifer's Body star added a touch of drama with a 16-foot train. "She couldn't keep it off the ground...[she] just ran through the sand to the altar," the insider added. "They were on a high. She wasn't going to worry about the small things."

Women can follow Fox's lead and choose a simply designed wedding dress, but should be make sure the frock fits perfectly, as there will be few accessories to distract from any ill-fitting areas.

Choose junior bridesmaid dresses wisely
7/9/2010

While brides often pick their best gal pals to be their bridesmaids and tiny toddlers to act as their flower girls, sometimes a junior bridesmaid joins the wedding party. These young ladies are often close family members around 9 to 14-years-old.

When outfitting these special girls, a bride must take extra caution to choose a dress with her in mind. While a junior bridesmaid gown doesn't need to perfectly match the other bridesmaid dresses, coordinating all of the pieces is key.

Peyton List, an adorable young actress who currently stars in The Sorcerer's Apprentice, stepped out at the world premiere of her film looking like a starlet-in-waiting. Her gold dress, which was short, flowy and accentuated by a black waistline, was paired with a shiny pair of simple silver ballet flats.

Brides can take a cue from List's getup and scour through junior bridesmaid dresses that emulate this look. Young girls can don the same color as the bridesmaids, but in a more simple, age-appropriate style. Also, while older women will certainly put on a pretty pair of heels, junior bridesmaids can show off a nice pair of flats.

Cut outs on formal dresses add a bit of sexiness and flair
7/9/2010

When it comes to looking sexy, sometimes less can be more. When looking through formal dresses, women should remember that cutouts provide a remarkable way to look sexy and elegant, all at once. The dress detail - small openings in surprising areas - lets a girl show some skin and still appear classy.

Mary Murphy, the former judge for So You Think You Can Dance, showed up to a recent event dressed in a vibrant purple number. The piece, which was knee-length and formfitting, featured a cleavage-revealing cutout just beneath her neck.

However, while showing off a pair of long luscious legs or a toned midriff is bound to make a lasting impression, opting for more than one of these details may seem overpowering.

Girls who want to make their mark at a soiree but often shy away from slinky pieces should opt for formal dresses that feature cutouts. A backless gown or a frock with snippets missing from its side is bound to leave men drooling, women reeling and the entire world begging for more.

Don a two-toned wedding dress
7/8/2010

Weddings are wrought with tradition, from throwing the bouquet to cutting the cake. But donning a white wedding dress may be the most recognized custom.

While some women eagerly await the chance to wear a white gown, other ladies ache for a little something different. But those daring fashionistas don't have to turn their back on this custom alltogether! Fashion forward brides can embrace tradition and make a statement by rocking a two-toned wedding dress on their big day.

One of the best ways to incorporate a color into a white gown is to allow the two colors to blend in the fabric. The pure white of the dress' bodice can melt into a dusty pink toward the bottom of the skirt's hem, creating an elegant flow of color that won't shock onlookers, but will certainly hold their attention.

When choosing the second color, women should consider the bridesmaid dresses as well. A wedding dress with a deep blue accent may fall flat against red bridesmaid dresses, but pop when surrounded by golden frocks.

To emphasize this fabulous gown, brides can even match their grooms' accessories - tie, boutonnière, cummerbund - to their dress' second tone.

Rose-colored bridesmaid dresses are fantastic for fall
7/8/2010

When some girls dream of their fairytale wedding, pink bridesmaid dresses are part of the plan. But incorporating this color into their bridal party can be difficult - many shades appear too immature, and some grooms may complain that pink is simply too feminine.

While springtime brides can easily blend whisper-soft pinks and peaches into their celebration, those who are getting married in autumn, a season which usually requires richer tones, can still outfit their bridesmaids in the gorgeous color by opting for a deeper shade like rose.

Rose-colored bridesmaid dresses are both warm and romantic, and rich enough to keep the ceremony from looking too girlish. Those who doubt the power of deep pink can look to Jennifer Garner, who attended the opening of the Casino Club in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, in a breath-taking rose gown.

Finding the perfect shade, however, can take time, so women who want to wrap their bridesmaids in rose-colored fabric should start looking for dresses right away. Shopping online can help to expedite the process, as brides-to-be can sort through hundreds of dresses with the click of a button.

Snag a formal dress in a flattering cut
7/8/2010

Women are understandably excited when they find a certain style of dress that fits them perfectly and flatters their figure, but can become frustrated when the fabulous silhouette doesn't translate to a formal dress.

The wrap dress has long been thought of as a cut that flatters almost any shape and is considered an ideal dress for an important business meeting and a first date. But the frock has also been labeled a casual cut, and is often deemed inappropriate for a black-tie affair.

Those who embrace the wrap dress are in luck, however, as Cameron Diaz recently proved that the silhouette is perfect for a formal gown. The leggy blonde dazzled at the Brazilian premiere of her new movie Knight and Day in a forest green wrap dress. The dress' wow factor came from its hip-hugging satin material, which showed off Diaz's svelte figure and gave the gown a bit of glamour.

Ladies who are seeking out a dressier version of their favorite frock should take a cue from Diaz and opt for a typically casual cut in a formal fabric. The lustrous material will instantly turn any silhouette into a dress worthy of the red carpet.

Halter spaghetti straps are ideal for bridesmaid dresses
7/8/2010

When deciding on bridesmaid dresses, there are many styles a woman can choose for their girls. However, spaghetti straps or halter silhouettes are some of the most beloved by brides-to-be.

If you're having a tough time deciding between these two options, why not combine them? Believe it or not, slim straps that look like a halter top can be fancy, fashionable and fun.

Vanessa Hessler, an uber-hot up-and-coming model, showed off her leggy figure in a simple but standout dress that embodied this idea. Her frock, which was designed in a beautiful blue pattern, featured two spaghetti straps that were sewn into the middle of the piece. The look showed off her feminine shoulders and accentuated her womanly figure.

When it comes to bridesmaid dresses, this detail is a wonderful option. Girls who are outfitting their best friends can ask that they choose this design option and leave the rest of the dress up to them. Some girls can don floor-length numbers while others can wear pieces to the knee.

Carrie Underwood's wedding dress - the details emerge
7/13/2010

Carrie Underwood got hitched to her uber-hot hockey player boyfriend, Mike Fisher, this past weekend, and it sounds like the affair was a doozy. The intimate affair is rumored to have taken place at the at the Ritz Carlton Reynolds Plantation in Georgia, with scores of A-list celebs in attendance.

However, the details that have dazzled us the most were, of course, about Underwood's wedding dress. According to People Magazine, the Undo It chanteuse made her way to the altar in a custom-made cream gown that was created from Chantilly lace.

While many women opt to don lace for their march down the aisle, Underwood's choice was especially elegant. The material, which is named after the city Chantilly in France, is beloved because of its intricate detail and feminine flair.

The former American Idol champ spoke with People Magazine back in March, and couldn't stop gushing about her wedding garb.

"It's really pretty," Underwood told the news source. "It's very in the beginning stages and it's very me. It's just girly and pretty, and it's simple and glamorous at the same time."

Outfit your bridal party in taupe bridesmaid dresses
7/6/2010

Selecting a hue for bridesmaid dresses can be tricky, especially when you want the shade to flatter all skin tones and hair colors. Instead of forcing your bridal party into a hue which may render some unhappy, why not select a neutral shade that flatters nearly everyone?

While it's hard to think of a color that American Idol alum Katharine McPhee doesn't look great in, the singer and actress looked especially phenomenal at a recent New York City charity event, donning a draped frock in a lovely taupe fabric.

Young brides worried that the earth tone is not feminine enough for a bridal party can take a hint from McPhee, who paired her dress with a pink clutch, and match the taupe bridesmaid dresses with colorful accessories. In fact, the hue mixes well with light pinks and peaches, as well as elegant golds and silvers.

Those who opt for taupe bridesmaid dresses may want to start shopping for the gowns early, as some frocks take a particularly long time to manufacture or ship. Getting the dresses in advance also allows ample time to select the perfect accessories to pair with them.

Floral prints are perfect party dresses
7/8/2010

If there's any print that's perfect for the warm weather, it's floral. Girls can don leopard and zebra designs from the first snowfall until the leaves start changing color, but floral usually best serves a woman when it's hot, humid and tropical. Of course, this past month has been a scorcher in most states. So why not embrace this trend and wear a floral dress to an upcoming shindig? Ladies who don't own a dress of this nature can take advantage of endless online sales.

Fiona Bruce, the lovely British journalist and television presenter, showed up to a recent event dressed to the nines in this stunning design. The brunette beauty had on a knee-length, formfitting floral number that was accentuated by a thick flower-printed belt. The piece was feminine and stylish, marking her place as trendsetter.

With the recent heat wave, you can bet that friends and family will be planning an outdoor soiree to mingle with some refreshing drinks in hand. Wear a floral frock to the next bash and get ready to turn heads all night long.

Wedding dresses - to bead, or not to bead?
7/8/2010

When a woman envisions her walk down the aisle, one of the biggest mysteries is what she will wear on her special day. Searching for wedding dresses can be a wonderful experience, but it also means sifting through endless options to choose a single frock for the affair.

Of course, aside from style and silhouette, a girl must figure out how much beading she desires. It may not be obvious, but the intricate detail can take a gown from simple to complex in an instant.

Girls who are certain they want to be covered in beading should take the time to search high and low for different styles. While certain adornments (such as sequins) look magnificent, their affect on a piece can be dramatic.

As always, the key to finding the gown of one's dreams is by beginning the search early. As soon as a ring is slipped on a girl's finger, she can do herself a favor by starting her quest for "the" dress.

Mixing pink and orange - yes, it can be done!
7/7/2010

When it comes to sheer beauty, there's often nothing as awe-inspiring and magically beautiful as a sunset. Every so often the sky is ignited with splendid hues of pink and orange, which blend together in picture-perfect fashion.

So when it comes to semi-formal dresses, why do most girls shy away from mixing these two unique colors? While pink and orange look incredible on their own, when paired together, they can truly make a woman shine.

Kendra Wilkinson made an appearance at The Moorea Beach Club this past weekend and looked ravishing in a pink and orange party dress. Her flowy frock, which also featured bits of yellow, was complemented by a beautiful brown pair of heels.

Girls who want to mimic Kendra's getup have many options available to them. They key is to start searching early and find dresses that feature new and exciting hues.

While clashing is certainly a no-no, women shouldn't be afraid to take some chances. More often than not, being courageous will reward a gal in the end.

Spice up formal dresses up with two unique fabrics
7/7/2010

Two is often better than one, so why not remember this when deciding on dress fabrics? Girls looking to give their evening attire a little oomph may want to keep this in mind when scouring through formal dresses.

You can always count on the women from The Jersey Shore to take chances, and Jenni "JWoww" Farley did not disappoint. The tan reality star stepped out at Ghost Bar in Las Vegas sporting a sexy number that boasted two distinct materials.

For starters, JWoww was rocking a formfitting mini-dress that appeared to be made of spandex.

However, the girl's frock was taken to another level with different fabric at the hemline. The long black skirt, which was sheer and sexy, seemed to be created from tulle.

This courageous move may not be for all women. Still, those who are willing to give it a shot may find that double the fabric means double the fun.

Ashley Greene shows off a sparkling silver cocktail dress
7/6/2010

While all fabrics work for cocktail dresses, ones that sparkle can bring an outfit to an entirely new dimension. A shimmery material often combines sexy and feminine ideals without seeming too outrageous.

It's no wonder that Ashley Greene, star of The Twilight Saga: Eclipse, knows this. The beautiful young starlet is often spotted in super trendy pieces and seems to own the perfect balance of adventurous and elegant frocks.

Greene made an appearance at one of the vampire film's abundant screenings in a silver sparkling mini-dress and embodied perfection. The number was complemented by a pair of glistening grey pumps and gorgeous diamond earrings, while her magnificent silver sparkling clutch handbag was the cherry on top.

Girls who are looking to make their mark at a semi-formal or nighttime affair may want to look for glittery, eye-catching dresses. The trick is to start shopping early and see if this style feels comfortable.

Keep in mind, the piece will help a young woman garner everyone's attention and remind the world it's their turn to shine.

Garner attention in a short dress with an elaborate back
7/6/2010

Many girls looking for pretty party dresses opt for items that feature detail along the neckline, bust or hem, but those who want to make a statement can also don a frock with an embellished back.

Elizabeth Gillies, known to her tween fans as Jade West on Nickelodeon's Victorious, stepped onto the red carpet at last week's The Last Airbender New York City premiere wearing a simple short dress, which featured a bit of black detailing near the collar. While every inch of the demure number looked gorgeous, it was the outfit's back that truly wowed the crowd.

The short dress, which appeared so simple from the front, featured an open back adorned with bold black and gold straps. Gillies drew attention to the striking details by pairing the number with platform sandals that matched the dark pieces of fabric.

Girls looking for a fresh style to rock should consider tracking down a short dress with a detailed back, as this embellishment is sure to turn heads. To find a great deal on the ideal number, girls can peruse online stores, which are currently featuring sales on their great spring products.

Frida Pinto goes for green
7/6/2010

When picking out bridesmaid dresses, a woman often leans towards standard wedding colors - red, black, pink and blue are just some of the shades that girls about to get hitched envision.

If you're aisle-bound, why not surprise your guests with a loud, unexpected color scheme? While the last thing you want is for your great-grandmother to go into shock when she sees your best friends walk you down the aisle, a bright and surprising hue may lead to your event being the talk of the town.

The gorgeous Freda Pinto, star of Slumdog Millionaire and current sweetheart to Indian actor Dev Patel, was spotted at The Last Airbender premiere and wowed a crowd of onlookers in a Kelly green cocktail dress. The stunning number was paired with a slim black belt and simple pair of peep-toe pumps.

Frida reminded the world that while this may be a daring choice for bridesmaid dresses, it is also a commendable one. Girls who want to make a statement as they become a Mrs can opt for bright colors and keep all of their wedding guests buzzing with excitement throughout the soiree.

Make a statement with black patent leather gloves
7/6/2010

Vampire fever is in the air, as The Twilight Saga: Eclipse has finally hit theaters. Whether or not you're a fan of the franchise, there's no doubt that all women around the world have been feeling more inclined to search for dark, Goth-inspired semi-formal dresses.

Singer and actress Paloma Faith showed up to the screening of the latest Twilight film dressed entirely in black, and channeled her vixen-side. The redheaded Brit was seen in a stunning 18th century-inspired frock that was paired with an adventurous black headpiece.

However, it was her hand accoutrements that were most distinct. Faith was rocking a pair of black patent leather gloves that made her look like an uber-fashionable Twi-hard.

You can't bottle teen angst, but you can certainly feel inspired by it when deciding between semi-formal dresses. Girls who are longing to wear their Team Edward or Team Jacob t-shirt at all times may want to choose daring accessories, such as black leather gloves, and pair them with a beautiful black dress.

Say 'yes!' to salmon-colored bridesmaid dresses
7/2/2010

Brides can easily run into trouble when selecting bridesmaid dresses for a late-summer wedding - summery shades may feel too light, but it is not yet time for the rich color palette of autumn. Instead of opting for a seasonally neutral tone of beige, add a punch of color to the bridal party with gorgeous salmon ensembles.

A touch bolder than peach, yet not as bright as coral, salmon-colored bridesmaid dresses straddle the boundary between summer brights and warm, autumnal tones. Women who decide to outfit their bridal party in this exceptional color can take tips from Twilight star Nikki Reed, who recently rocked the shade on the red carpet at the London premiere of The Twilight Saga: Eclipse.

Reed looked flawless in the one-shouldered frock, which complemented her sunkissed skin and cascade of coffee-colored curls. She paired the salmon-hued number with black peep-toe pumps, a jeweled silver bracelet and cocktail ring.

To best accommodate your bridesmaids, let the women select the individual cut of the salmon-colored dresses - the hue will unify the bridal party, and each lady will feel wonderful wearing a dress that flatters her figure.

 
Long-sleeved formal dresses are a great purchase!
7/2/2010

Let's face it, we all have our own problem areas that we like to cover-up, and ladies who are insecure about their upper arms often search for a wrap or long jacket to throw on over a formal dress. Instead of adding extra layers, however, women can take a cue from celebrity trendsetters and don a long-sleeved frock.

Kelly Rowland looked simply stunning at the London premiere of The Twilight Saga: Eclipse, and the former Destiny's Child member kept her arms covered! Rowland rocked a long-sleeved minidress in a shimmering black fabric, and paired the sparkling number with sky-high sandals.

While we're sure the fit R&B singer doesn't have a single problem-area to hide, her ensemble does prove that women can look sleek and sexy while wearing long sleeves. To balance out the formal dress' conservative upper half, however, women may want to opt for a more daring hem-line - with your arms and shoulders covered, feel free to show off those legs!

And, as the seasons change, women who embrace this look may be thankful they did - long-sleeve formal dress can be paired with closed-toe pumps during the winter, and strappy heels come summertime. If you plan on wearing this dress year round, make sure to select a neutral shade that will look great in any season.

 
Consider color and fabric when selecting a pageant dress
7/2/2010

Women who are searching for the perfect pageant dress have the same components to consider that other females face when shopping for a fancy gown, including perfect fit, a flattering color and a favorable cut. But while turning heads is merely a bonus to those who are stepping out at a formal affair, attracting attention is necessary for women competing in pageants.

While she was walking a red carpet, and not a stage, 90210 star AnnaLynne McCord exhibited the perfect amount of class and flash that pageant contestants may want to emulate. The charming starlet popped in a striking purple gown, which fit her perfectly, and the frock's shimmery satin fabric highlighted the unique stitching - trust us, we could hardly take our eyes off her!

Females planning to strut their stuff in a pageant may want to take some tips from Ms McCord. A punch of color is sure to get you noticed, and a shiny material will help you steal the spotlight - literally! As your dress catches the light, it may also capture the judges' attention.

Since you are dressing to be noticed, make sure your dress fits impeccably. To give yourself the best chance of finding this ideal pageant dress, shop online to browse through hundreds of dresses in mere minutes.

Rock the same flattering formal dress in two different colors
7/2/2010

There are few greater shopping-related feelings than getting your hands on a formal dress that fits like a glove and flatters your figure. If you are lucky enough to find a silhouette that makes you look your best, however, why not buy the gown in two different colors?

Yes, wearing the same dress twice has long been considered a faux-pas by fashionistas. Still, ignoring an opportunity to get as much use as possible out of an ideally flattering frock? That may be an even worse gaffe!

Television star Shannen Doherty decided not to let a good thing go to waste and donned the same formal dress in two different colors. Earlier this year, the 90210-alum wore a body-hugging red number that showed off her stunning physique at Perez Hilton's Los Angeles birthday party. A few months later, Doherty stepped out for a night on the town rocking a black version of the same, tight frock.

We applaud the brunette beauty for being able to recognize a flattering form and sticking with it. Women who purchase the same formal dress in two different colors, however, may not want to follow Doherty's lead too closely - she rocked the same pair of sandals on each occasion. While the change in hue will keep your appearance from looking stale, accessorize each gown differently to ensure a totally fresh overall look.

Don a patterned formal dress at your next elegant affair
7/2/2010

Women on the hunt for a long gown may often steer clear of patterns. Some fear the frock will not appear formal enough, while others may be frightened by the bold style - after all, think of the attention a patterned mini-dress garners, and multiply that by the extra foot of fabric floor-length gowns possess.

According to some of Hollywood's brightest stars, however, rocking a long formal dress in a fantastic pattern can be a classy statement worth making! At an event in Miami, Jennifer Lopez looked smoking in a formfitting gown that featured sherbet-colored swirls.

Claire Danes tried out this glamorous trend as well at the Shanghai Film Festival. The Stardust actress opted for a darker color palette than J. Lo, and the pattern thinned out down the dress. Each woman paired her formal dress with minimal makeup and accessories, so as not to overwhelm their patterned frocks.

Shy women who are hesitant to embrace a bold print can mimic Danes and choose a formal dress that boasts darker, less busy patterns. Fashion-forward females, however, can jump into this trend head first and rock a bright-colored print, like Ms Lopez.

Rock the same flattering formal dress in two different colors
7/1/2010

There are few greater shopping-related feelings than getting your hands on a formal dress that fits like a glove and flatters your figure. If you are lucky enough to find a silhouette that makes you look your best, however, why not buy the gown in two different colors?

Yes, wearing the same dress twice has long been considered a faux-pas by fashionistas. Still, ignoring an opportunity to get as much use as possible out of an ideally flattering frock? That may be an even worse gaffe!

Television star Shannen Doherty decided not to let a good thing go to waste and donned the same formal dress in two different colors. Earlier this year, the 90210-alum wore a body-hugging red number that showed off her stunning physique at Perez Hilton's Los Angeles birthday party. A few months later, Doherty stepped out for a night on the town rocking a black version of the same, tight frock.

We applaud the brunette beauty for being able to recognize a flattering form and sticking with it. Women who purchase the same formal dress in two different colors, however, may not want to follow Doherty's lead too closely - she rocked the same pair of sandals on each occasion. While the change in hue will keep your appearance from looking stale, accessorize each gown differently to ensure a totally fresh overall look.

Sweetheart gowns are adorable wedding dress silhouettes
7/1/2010

What is it about a sweetheart neckline that evokes feminine and sexy sentiments? The design, one of the most common for wedding dresses, is cherished by almost all women.

Not surprisingly, there is a long history to this lovely silhouette. In fact, some people believe it has its origins in the 18th century, when French clothing designers outfitted some of the most regal women in the world.

Today, brides-to-be can certainly take advantage of this design, which will make them look stunning as they walk down the aisle. Luckily, the shape can be found on wedding dresses of all styles, whether a woman prefers a formfitting lace number or an elaborate silk ball gown.

Of course, there are other styles out there that will look fantastic on a girl about to enter wedded bliss. Still, the sweetheart neckline is a style that should never be discounted. Gals should look online as soon as an engagement ring goes on their finger and discover if this design is for them.

 
Heidi Klum looks simply marvelous in a stunning mini-dress
7/1/2010

Heidi Klum has it all, doesn't she? Beautiful looks, a sensitive and sexy husband, and four gorgeous children are just some of the wonderful aspects of her life.

Now, it's apparent the model and Project Runway host knows how to sift through scores semi-formal dresses and pick out the perfect one.

Klum recently made an appearance on the red carpet in quite the remarkable frock. Her sparkling mini dress featured an array of white and yellow sequins and showed off her awe-inspiring leggy body.

Of course, while Seal's beloved is a model, other girls can emulate this look too. Women who are headed to a fancy wedding or special party this hot season might want to consider pairing yellow and white together and wowing the crowd in a summer-inspired mini-dress.

And while it's always important to shop early, gals who have waited until the last minute can take advantage of the major sales happening at online dress shops at the moment. Reap the benefits while you can - but next time, make sure to plan ahead!

Kris Jenner rocks an animal print mini-dress
7/1/2010

If there's one pattern that will stay in style until the end of time, it's animal prints. Leopard and zebra designs are fads that always look incredible on women's bodies, handbags, and shoes.

When searching for formal dresses, girls who are looking to make a statement should consider donning this wild template. Let's be honest - is there anything sexier than a super-short cocktail dress that is adorned with an animal-print fabric? The motif is bound to let everyone know that you're there to see and be seen.

Kris Jenner, reality star and mother to the lovely Kardashian sisters, stepped out in Las Vegas in a striking red animal print mini-dress. The look was fabulous for the hot mom, who is often snapped by paparazzi parading around Hollywood in ensembles as daring as her daughters'.

Of course, this style may not be for everyone, and girls who tend to be shy and timid may want to opt for a flowier, less shocking piece. Still, if you've got the courage, flaunt it whenever you can.

Puffy sleeve wedding dresses can be stylish and fun
7/1/2010

While shoulder pads may have been the biggest clothing faux-pas of the 80s, puffy sleeves shouldn't be entirely discounted. In fact, the design detail seems to be experiencing a rebirth in the fashion world.

As it turns out, Coca Rocha, one of the world's most successful models at the moment, got hitched in a puffy sleeved number that was both fun and fantastic-looking.

The stunning bride was captured in a family photo in an elegant white formfitting frock that featured a plunging neckline. Her gorgeous wedding dress also appeared to have lace details running down the bodice.

However, the most attention-grabbing aspect of Rocha's ensemble was on her shoulders. The dress featured puffy sleeves that were delicately shaped in order to call attention to spring flowers. Coco's bouquet, a gargantuan collection of fresh white roses, complemented her piece to a tee.

While this style may not be for everyone, a puffy sleeved dress may be just the thing for the gal looking for something different, unique and exciting.

Carnie Wilson wows the world in a black gown
7/1/2010

Anyone who follows celebrity news knows that Carnie Wilson struggles with her weight. The beautiful chanteuse and reality star has seen the scale go up and down and yet has been candid about her battle of the bulge.

Even so, there's no denying that Wilson is gorgeous, and it looks like the woman knows how to embrace her body while picking perfectly-fitting evening gowns.

The former Wilson Phillips singer made an appearance at the 2010 Daytime Emmy Awards looking absolutely ravishing in a black ball gown. The number appeared to be made of silky smooth fabric, while the bodice was adorned in lace.

Carnie reminded all plus-size women out there that gals of all shapes and sizes can turn heads and be the center of attention - all you need is the right dress! Wilson may not be as thin as other starlets who make their living in Tinseltown, but she owned the red carpet.

No matter what a girl's size may be, the key is to look early for formal dresses. From sizes 2 to 20, making sure a piece fits perfectly is rule number one.

Off-the-shoulder formal dresses are sexy and fun
7/1/2010

Every woman has a lovely asset they want to show off. Whether it's a wonderful set of flat abs or beautiful bum, all gals are certain to be proud of one particular body part.

Of course, it goes without saying that shoulders are universally sexy. Giving the world a peek at this area while dressed to the nines is bound to make guys swoon as girls turn green with envy.

Model and actress Kayslee Collins stepped out last week in a beautiful black number that highlighted her feminine upper arms and collarbone. The look screamed sexy without being too revealing, and was a superb choice for the evening.

Girls may be enjoying their summer at the moment, but there's no doubt that an upcoming dance or soiree will be taking place in the autumn. Before one knows it, a new cocktail dress or evening attire will need to be purchased.

So when deciding on semi-formal dresses, why not pick one that accentuates the shoulders? Look through scores of options online to see what's out there. You may be pleasantly surprised by what you find.

Tutu-style formal dresses are too cute
6/30/2010

It goes without saying that every girl envisions growing up to be a ballerina. Still, the days of wearing tutus are often long gone by the time she is combing through semi-formal dresses and crossing her fingers that her crush will ask her to the upcoming school dance.

Well, we say why not embrace one's girly inner-child and sport some ballet-inspired attire? Of course, something pink and frilly may not garner the attention you're looking for, but with the right hue, a cocktail dress that evokes this style is bound to turn heads all night long.

Miranda Cosgrove, the star of the hit Nickelodeon series iCarly, made an appearance on the red carpet recently in a number that called attention to this idea. The beautiful young actress was wearing a super-short maroon number that came together at her waist and blossomed out from there.

Girls who want to show off their legs may want to take this idea and run with it. Semi-formals are all about channeling your cute side - wait until prom to look elegant and regal.

A black and white pageant dress is sure to steal the spotlight
6/30/2010

When selecting a pageant dress, women should consider two things - how great the gown makes them look and how much it sets them apart from the rest of the crowd! Ladies looking to steal the spotlight may want to consider slipping into a black and white gown.

Women unsure if this combination will turn heads should look no further than Modern Family knockout Sofia Vergara. At the The Twilight Saga: Eclipse New York City screening, the Latina beauty donned a gorgeous white dress that featured black detailing across her shoulders and bust. While the white fabric instantly attracted attention, it was the bold black design that inspired onlookers to keep their eyes on her.

While no woman should wait until the last minute to purchase a gown for a special occasion, it's especially important that pageant participants order their frocks early. You never know what type of extenuating circumstances will pop up, and you want to be sure that you'll have your dress in time for the competition.

Given the importance of this ensemble, you'll want to make sure you find the perfect outfit. Shopping online is a great way to easily peruse hundreds of dresses - after all, you don't want to miss out on a beautiful gown simply because you didn't have time to comb through the racks at a boutique!

How to accessorize white formal dresses
6/30/2010

While white formal dresses are beautiful, they can easily come off as "bridal." To avoid looking like a runaway bride, pair your chic white gown with some hot accessories.

Dark blazers and leather jackets instantly add edge to a gorgeous white frock, and are the perfect accompaniment when heading out for a night on the town. Throw on a pair of dark pumps and you are ready to party!

Ivory dresses also pair wonderfully with metallic accessories. According to InStyle Magazine, "Lustrous silver and gold accessories pop even more against a white canvas," so slip on a pair of strappy silver heels or grab a gold leather clutch.

Much like a little black dress, white formal dresses never go out of style - the color looks airy and light in the summertime, and frosty and serene in the winter. However, even the most beautiful gown will lose its appeal if it doesn't fit you perfectly.

To locate a great fitting gown, start shopping early so that you can take your time and look for cuts that you know flatter your figure. Once you find the dress of your dreams, you can begin to pick out great accessories for your big night.

Pair your short dress with boots in both hot and cold weather
6/30/2010

While summer is the perfect season to invest in short dresses, too many ladies hang up their stylish frocks as soon as the leaves start changing. Instead of hiding your dress in the back of your closet until spring returns, why not wear it with a great pair of boots?

Some of Hollywood's most infamous fashionistas are already trying out this daring trend. On a recent night out in London, Victoria Beckham wowed bystanders by pairing her black micro-mini with thigh-high black boots. You can rock a similar, albeit toned-down version of the Spice Girl's bold look by donning a dress that falls just above the knee with gorgeous knee-high boots.

If you are in the mood to show off your legs while still embracing this autumnal trend, you can follow Ciara's lead. The sultry singer wore a short dress with long sleeves to the BET Awards, and accompanied the frock with a pair of mid-calf boots.

When shopping for a short dress to wear in both warm and cool months, make sure the fabric is versatile as well - linen is hard to pull-off in colder weather and heavier weaves may not translate in summertime.

Locating the perfect mother of the bride dress
6/30/2010

While brides-to-be prepare for their big day by searching high and low for the ideal gown, many mothers are doing the same - for themselves! Perfect mother of the bride dresses can be difficult to find but, with a few expert tips, moms will be ready to see their babies walk down the aisle.

The first decision to be made is whether the mother of the bride dress should match the bridesmaid gowns. While it is not imperative, the colors shouldn't clash either, as mothers may be situated near the bridal party during the ceremony and in photographs.

According to wedding fashion expert Barbara Tibbetts, after the color has been decided, there are three areas that women should consider when purchasing their mother of the bride dresses. "First is what I call her emotional comfort level. She must feel pretty in the dress," Tibbetts told The Courier, adding that moms should also consider cost and physical comfort.

To locate a great-fitting, cost-efficient mother of the bride dress, women can check out online shops and email pictures of possible winners to their daughters for final approval. But mothers should remember to begin their search early - even after the gown has been selected, shipping times can vary.

Make a statement in a pattered short dress
6/30/2010

While some women opt for striking silhouettes and innovative textures to wow the crowds, ladies who want to make a statement should consider donning a short dress in a bold pattern.

Alexis Bledel recently employed this tactic when the former Gimore Girl attended the Veuve Cliquot Polo Classic on Governor's Island in New York. While the simply cut sheath dress flattered the blue-eyed beauty's petite figure, it was the fabric that really turned heads.

Her short dress featured a watercolor-like mix of blues and yellows. The young starlet made sure that the frock spoke for itself, as she paired the piece with understated beige sandals.

Patterned dresses are wonderful for any time of the year, as long as the color palette reflects the current season. Women searching for the perfect autumn ensemble can drape themselves in burnt oranges, rich cranberries and olive greens.

Whether you opt for plaid, flowers or an abstract print, a patterned dress is sure to make a statement. However, finding that perfect frock can be difficult, so start shopping early!

Brides can purchase a second dress to change into before the reception
6/30/2010

Many brides think of one thing (and one thing alone) when shopping for a wedding dress - how will I look walking down the aisle? If your primary concern is appearing flawless during your march, consider purchasing a second dress to change into for the reception.

Sometimes beauty and comfort do not go hand-in-hand, as much as we would like them too. If you buy a second dress to change into, you will not have to worry whether your perfect wedding dress will be uncomfortable at your reception.

Knowing that you will not have to navigate a crowd or a dance floor while wearing your wedding gown can enable you to go all out on your dream wedding dress and select items with full princess skirts and fitted corsets.

Many wedding dresses, however, are the ideal blend of beauty and comfort. Still, purchasing a second frock may be a great idea, especially for brides who want to preserve their wedding dress. With the eating, drinking and dancing that occurs at the reception, your dress could easily get stepped on, ripped or stained.

Select a special frock for your maid of honor
6/30/2010

Though the whole bridal party is important, there is one woman who deserves a bit more attention - the maid of honor. Traditionally, this lovely lady always goes the extra mile, whether she is planning the bachelorette party or holding your bouquet as you exchange your vows at the altar.

Show the entire wedding that this woman is something special by dressing her in a slightly different ensemble than the rest of the bridesmaids. If all the women are wearing lilac bridesmaid dresses, outfit your maid of honor in that same cut, but in amethyst.

Some brides opt to select a completely different gown all together, but remember to match the maid of honor's frock to those of the bridal party - you don't want it to look like a bridesmaid got stuck with the wrong dress or, even worse, that a random wedding guest snuck into your photos!

If you don't want to disrupt the bridesmaid dresses' continuity, consider pinning a special flower to your maid of honor's dress. It's a great way to subtly highlight her special role in your wedding ceremony.


Short wedding dresses are a great idea!
6/30/2010

While brides often dream of walking down the aisle in an elegant floor-length gown, a short wedding dress boasts a bunch of benefits that many women may be unaware of.

It's easy to forget that the exchanging of vows is only a part of the wedding day celebration - the rest of the night will be spent dancing and rejoicing! Short wedding dresses are easier to move around in, whether you are navigating a crowd of congratulatory hugs or a packed dance floor.

Women on a budget may also want to consider donning a short wedding dresses, as they may be more likely to wear the frock again. While there are few occasions besides one's wedding day that call for a girl to show up in long white gown, a cocktail-length ivory dress is perfect for a night out on the town or a romantic dinner.

Those who fear that they'll miss the drama of a long train trailing them as they march down the aisle can don a floor-length veil, as the striking accessory will create a beautiful cascade of flowing fabric and can be easily removed after the ceremony.


Twilight stars wear formal dresses with interesting textures
6/30/2010

When shopping for formal dresses, women often consider a few key components - fit, cut and color. But those looking to amp up their ensembles' wow factor may want to select a dress based on its texture.

Celebrities like Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning recently dazzled on the red carpet at the Los Angeles premiere of The Twilight Saga: Eclipse, both wearing gowns that packed a bit of extra texture.

Stewart's one-armed white frock went from drab to fab thanks to its interesting fabric - boiled wool! The starlet paired the formal dress with nude pumps and red nails, and didn't overwhelm the unique material with unnecessary accessories.

Fanning, meanwhile, stepped out in a beautiful champagne-colored number that boasted a bold feather-detailed hem. The Coraline star also opted for minimal accessories and wore a pair of studded nude heels.

Like Twilight's two leading ladies, women who choose to wear textured formal dresses shouldn't detract from the striking material by wearing jewelry. To find the perfect outfit, and to avoid last minute mishaps, fashionistas should start perusing online stores as soon as possible.


Similarly colored but differently cut bridesmaid dresses are beautiful
6/30/2010

Though tradition dictates that bridesmaids don matching gowns, today's bride realizes that it's nearly impossible to find one cut that flatters everybody's figure. Instead of forcing friends to walk down the aisle wearing unflattering frocks, women can outfit their bridal party in differently cut but similarly colored bridesmaid dresses.

It's up to the bride to pick the color scheme, and that may depend upon the season in which she gets married. While those who walk down the aisle in the summer may opt for buttery yellows or bright corals, those who opt to say 'I do' in the fall may lean towards autumnal oranges and deep reds.

Once the hue has been selected, the bride can send the color specifications (and any other requirements she has, such as length or fabric) to her bridal party and let them pick their style of dress. The women can shop online and email links to bridesmaid dresses to one another, as well as to the bride herself. Bridesmaids should remember, however, that the bride always has veto-power - after all, this is her special day!

Selecting bridesmaids dresses in cuts that flatter each figure is also a great way to ensure that the bridal party will get maximum use out of their dresses - who wouldn't want to wear a perfectly fitting gown again?

Kelly Ripa calls attention to champagne-colored bridesmaid dresses
6/30/2010

Kelly Ripa may be super-petite, but the woman has sky-high fashion inspirations. It looks like she hit the bullseye when she recently stepped out at a New York party in a fashionable champagne-colored dress.

Ripa has been married to her uber-hot hubby, actor Mark Consuelos, for 14 years now, but she was still able to provide some brides with inspiration. In fact, her number was the picture-perfect version of what women headed to the altar might want to use for their bridal party's color scheme.

Bridesmaids who are adorned in this shade will look incredible in photos and can pair their champagne dress with a bouquet of white roses or cream calla lilies. Their shoes can also be dyed to match the exact color, although the light shade goes fantastically with both silver and gold.

Considering Ripa was sporting some seriously slim legs and a rock hard bod, it's hard to believe the woman will be turning 40 this year! Girls who want to look as stellar as the actress and television host can hit the gym as often as she does - and remember to put on champagne!

Three-quarter length dresses are perfect for semi-formals
6/30/2010

While mermaid gowns are floor-length, there is another option out there for gals who want to accentuate their hips. Those who are headed to a semi-formal in the fall may want to strut their stuff in a three-quarter length dress.

Ana Ortiz, the gorgeous Latina actress from Ugly Betty, recently hit the red carpet in a stunning example of the head-turning style. The brunette donned a number that reached just below her knees and yet was cute enough to be considered a cocktail dress.

Ortiz's dress was fitted right below her bosom - a style that made the 5'4" actress appear as though she was towering over the world. Women who have similar body shapes may want to take a cue from the beauty and search for similar styles and silhouettes.

Every girl should know that with a little determination, the perfect frock can be found. The key is shopping early and staying true to one's personality and style. Give yourself at least a few months and you're bound to find the ideal dress of your dreams.

Alicia Keys' white gown would make a perfect wedding dress
6/30/2010

Finding the perfect wedding dress is difficult on many levels. It should be striking yet comfortable, elegant yet exude personal style, and of course it must be flattering and seasonally appropriate. Is finding such a gown even possible?

Well, judging from Alicia Keys' ensemble at the BET Awards, it sure is! While the soulful singer wasn't marching down the aisle, she lit up the room in a flowing, white gown with a jeweled collar.

Keys' simple yet stunning frock would be the perfect wedding dress at a late-summer celebration. The flowing fabric looked comfortable, and created a smooth and elegant line, while the embellished neck added the right amount of personal pizazz.

Women interested in mimicking Keys' flawless look for their nuptials should begin shopping for their wedding dress as early as possible, since ordering, processing and shipping a dress can take a bit of extra time.

While the bride-to-be awaits her wedding dress' arrival, she can dive headfirst into planning the celebration, now that she has found her gown and item number one has been crossed off the to-do list!

Kate Hudson proves that you can pair navy and black
6/30/2010

When putting together outfits, women always seem to follow certain rules of thumb - don't mix stripes and polka dots, never wear sock with sandals. But there is one fashion choice which seems to be turning from a faux pas to a hot new trend.

Stars have recently been spotted mixing black and navy blue, a color combination that even the most forward-thinking fashionistas are often warned to avoid. Both Kate Hudson and Amanda Seyfried stepped out on the town in dark blue frocks and paired the short dresses with striking black jackets. The dark colors don't seem to clash at all - in fact, they create a sophisticated and cohesive ensemble, which is perfect for fall.

Women who want to try out this trend should remember that even the hottest color combinations can look abysmal if the clothes fit improperly - one of the reasons Hudson looks so great is that her short dress and black blazer fit her to a tee!

In order to find a perfectly fitting navy blue dress, ladies should start their shopping early - shipping may take a little extra time, so the earlier the short dress is ordered, the better. Once the navy number arrives, women can pair it with a black jacket, scarf or large belt.

One-sleeve formal dresses are daring and exciting
6/26/2010

When it comes to formal dresses, many girls long to strut their stuff in something unique, exciting and fun. But how does one accomplish such a task without seeming too over-the-top?

Thanks to Kristen Stewart, we may now have our answer. While the starlet usually hits the red carpet in sleek, simple choices, the beautiful brunette stepped out at the Twilight premiere in Los Angeles in quite the adventurous frock. Her mini-dress was white, feathered and featured one long sleeve while the other was completely cut off. Let's say it together now - fierce!

Girls who are currently dreaming of a perfect gown for fall and winter occasions may want to take a cue from Stewart and slip into something as spunky and nervy as she did. If you can't find a darling dress that has one sleeve only, feel free to go with something that highlights a number of cutouts and surprising elements to it.

The fall seems like eons away, but it will arrive sooner than you think. Start searching now and be prepared to wow the world in this autumn.

Single-color bridesmaid dresses can look simple, gorgeous and unique
6/26/2010

Brides often spend hours upon hours brainstorming the perfect bridesmaid dress. All too often women headed to the altar waste their time pairing different color combos together in their minds, imagining how they'll look on their best friends.

If you're a bride-to-be, why not skip all the fuss and go with one color only? While it's often lovely to see gowns accentuated by vibrant sashes or elegant details, a sleek, simple dress can also look incredible in photos.

Women who are not sure where to begin should naturally start with their color scheme. If your wedding hues are purple and silver, consider dressing your girls in just one of these pigments instead of both. Their look can be spruced up with a variation in dress design, or a multicolored flower bouquet.

Also, many brides try to work in different levels of one particular shade. For example, your bridesmaids could be adorned in lavender, while the flower girls might want to don deep purple dresses. Give each of the groomsmen a dark violet boutonniere and the father of the bride a lighter shade.

Variety is the spice of life - and that certainly pertains to formal wear. While planning your wedding, always try to think outside of the box.

Bridal shoes - play it safe, or think out of the box?
6/28/2010

Some girls spend so long searching for the perfect wedding dress, they often forget one very important detail - bridal shoes. Believe it or not, what goes on your feet on your special day may be just as vital as your gown.

One of the most important details when searching for wedding shoes is comfort. Although five-inch heels might help you seem statuesque, blisters aren't fun! This day will go down as one of the best of your life, and you won't want to spend it hobbling around the venue.

The next detail to consider is color. While most brides choose to match their bridal shoes to the exact tint of their wedding dress, others like to be daring and fun.

If your gown will cover your feet for most of the night, why not put on a pair of sexy red shoes? Those who have a bit of a punk side to them might want to try finding a pair of ocean-colored pumps and have them be their "something blue."

Walking down the aisle doesn't always have to be about looking classically beautiful. It's about being the best "you" while still embracing your inner style.

Salma Hayek shows off a fetching white and red cocktail dress
6/28/2010

Could Salma Hayek be any lovelier? The gorgeous Latina tends to slam dunk every one of her red carpet arrivals, and her appearance at the Grown Ups premiere in New York City was no exception.

The stunning starlet showed off her god-given goods in an irresistible white cocktail dress that was accentuated by a small, vibrant red belt. She matched the eye-catching ensemble with a pair of cute red pumps.

Although it's currently hot outside, Salma may have many gals out there longing for the cold weather, as her getup was absolutely perfect for a winter formal or even a Valentine's Day dance. Imagine how incredible a girl could look pairing white and red together while being escorted into a ballroom with a gorgeous beau on her arm.

While the winter seems like eons away, it's never too early to begin shopping. Gowns and even semi-formal dresses can take weeks and months to order, and the last thing a girl wants to do is miss out on the perfect, once-in-a-lifetime outfit ensemble.


Katerina Graham searches for beautiful formal dresses
6/28/2010

School is out for summer, but that doesn't mean there won't be incredible events to attend during the warmer months. Whether it's a sweet sixteen or a relative's wedding, looking for formal dresses is often a year-round activity.

And what better way to feel inspired than by discovering what the celebrities love wearing? In fact, Katerina Graham, singer and star of the hit show The Vampire Diaries, hung out with Seventeen.com while she indulged in every gal's favorite activity - shopping.

As it turns out, the beauty didn't hesitate to give her likes and dislikes when it comes to picking out formal dresses.

"I love strapless dresses," she said in the video. Graham's adoration for this style was certainly apparent when she gushed over a bright purple strapless number and ran to try it on.

"I would totally wear this dress to a hot date night, or a summer party or a spring event," she said.

Of course, the beautiful actress also gave some sage advice to viewers hoping for some some dress shopping scoop.

"It's important to find dresses that not only fit your style, but fit your body shape as well," she said.

Pregnant bridesmaids can look beautiful and sexy
6/28/2010

Some people believe there's nothing as beautiful as pregnancy, and a woman who is expecting often looks incredible in eveningwear.

If you're a bride-to-be and one of your bridesmaids will be showing off a burgeoning belly when she walks you down the aisle, don't fret - there are some fabulous dresses out there that highlight all the right places and will make her look and feel simply stunning.

Alicia Keys, who is expecting her first child with music producer and fiancé Swizz Beatz this fall, performed some of her hits on Good Morning America last week looking spectacular. The Empire State of Mind chanteuse was wearing an adorable, casual outfit, but also made sure to put on a bold black belt right above her midsection.

While this accessory may not be a fitting choice for a wedding, brides should consider choosing empire gowns that can accentuate a woman's tummy area. The look is fabulous for pregnant girls as well as those who have super-flat abs.

As always, searching early and getting your girls' opinions may be the best thing you can do. Pregnant women sometimes get emotional, so you want to make sure that your special mom-to-be feels comfortable in what she wears.

Pair a white wedding dress with dark accessories
6/28/2010

It seems that brides are constantly searching for elegant ways to perfect their wedding day ensemble. While young women traditionally walk down the aisle in white gowns, fashion-forward females may want to pair their ivory gown with a bold accent color.

Though she wasn't exchanging vows, Zoe Saldana wowed the crowd at the Crystal and Lucy Awards in a ruffled white dress ideal for a summer wedding. The Avatar star paired the frock with a black sash and black pumps, creating a knockout ensemble.

Brides can follow Saldana's lead and add a punch of drama to their wedding dress with a bold-colored sash and bright high heels. However, women should remember that all the accessories in the world will be pointless if the wedding dress itself isn't a perfect fit.

To ensure a great fitting gown, brides-to-be should start shopping for their wedding dress as early as possible. Because there are an endless amount of styles available, women can get a head start by checking out online shops and emailing pictures of possible gowns to pals to get some friendly input!

A perfectly fitting wedding dress may be the key to looking great
6/28/2010

Any woman who has ever donned a wedding dress will attest to the fact that, no matter how gorgeous a gown is, if it doesn't fit perfectly, the look is essentially ruined. Before a bride-to-be selects a frock for the big day, she should figure out which cut best flatters her figure.

According to TheKnot.com, selecting the right fitting dress will help the bride to feel comfortable and at ease - which will increase her overall beauty! Whether she chooses a strapless gown or a full skirt, however, may depend upon a woman's body type.

The news source suggests that while a woman's weight may fluctuate during the stress of wedding planning, her overall body type will remain the same. Brides with an hourglass figure can choose a wedding dress that accentuates their beautiful curves, such as a mermaid or trumpet-style gown.

Pear-shaped women, however, should avoid the mermaid-style frocks and instead opt for a strapless wedding dress that pulls the focus upwards. Petite brides should keep their gowns simple as something big and elaborate may overwhelm her small frame!

Feathery formal dresses for Fall 2010
6/28/2010

Daring fashionistas seem to be constantly on the search for the next big trend. Those looking to rock a fashion-forward frock come Fall 2010 may want to opt for formal dress with an unlikely embellishment - feathers!

According to Vogue, "plumage is set to flutter around shoulders [and] skirts." These feathered frocks have already hit the runway, and some of today's hottest celebs are trying out this up-and-coming trend.

At the Los Angeles premiere of The Twilight Saga: Eclipse, two of the movie's stars wore formal dresses that featured feathers. Dakota Fanning's champagne gown subtly incorporated the fluffy quills at the skirt's hem, while co-star Nikki Reed embraced this look head-on and opted for a dress which featured a full skirt of plumage, as well as extra embellishments at the shoulders.

It certainly takes a bold woman to try out this trend, but shy ladies can follow in Fanning's footsteps and don a formal dress with a few feathers at the hem, or a simple adornment on one shoulder. Because the dress becomes a statement unto itself, fashionistas who rock this look should wear minimal to no accessories and pair the formal dress with nude shoes.

Jewel-toned bridesmaid dresses great for upcoming autumn weddings
6/28/2010

Brides seem to spend almost as much time selecting bridesmaid dresses as they do choosing their own gown, and with good reason - the bridal party accompanies the young woman down the aisle and stands at her side in a plethora of wedding photographs. This fall, women can take a hint from Hollywood A-listers and outfit their nearest and dearest in rich, jewel-toned bridesmaid dresses.

At a recent taping of The Late Show with David Letterman, Salma Hayek impressed the audience in an amethyst sheath dress. The actress, who is currently promoting her new film Grown-Ups, kept accessories minimal and wore nude-colored pumps.

Role Models star Elizabeth Banks also rocked a jewel-toned dress when she stepped out at the Bing Celebration of Creation Minds after-party in Los Angeles wearing a gorgeous sapphire gown. A rich color palette is not the only thing these celebs share - both women guest starred as Alec Baldwin's love interest on NBC's 30 Rock.

Women who want to use these decadent colors in their wedding party should start shopping for bridesmaid dresses early to ensure that they have time to find the perfect gem shade.

Purchase a flower girl frock that complements the bridesmaid dresses
6/28/2010

While bridesmaids usually get the most ensemble-related attention, there is one little lady whose outfit is just as important - the flower girl! It can be hard to find the appropriate balance of youth and elegance, but a great flower girl dress is not impossible to find.

When selecting a flower girl dress, brides should make sure that it complements the bridesmaids dresses without matching it completely. While the general design should be similar, remember that, in most cases, the young lady is approximately 20 years younger than the rest of the wedding party and an age-appropriate frock is a must.

To mirror the bridesmaid dresses, select a flower girl gown that is the same color and material, and that perhaps features some of the same accessories. If the rest of the bridal party is wearing cocoa-colored strapless gowns with cream sashes, women can outfit the flower girl in a chocolate shift dress that features the same ivory sash.

Brides can even enlist the flower girl's help when selecting the proper outfit. Women can comb through online stores and send links to possible dresses to the youngster (and her mother), and the three ladies can pick out the perfect dress together.

Mena Suvari hoped her wedding dress would cover her tattoos
6/28/2010

Actress Mena Suvari married concert producer Simone Sestito in Vatican City, Italy, this weekend, and it seems that the American Beauty star wowed the crowd when she donned her wedding dress.

"The ceremony was truly unique and Mena looked breathtaking," an insider told People Magazine. "They are very much in love."

When selecting her wedding dress, however, Suvari had more to think about than just which cut would flatter her figure most - she wanted a gown that covered her tattoos.

"I think it would be considerate to [Simone's] family to have my tattoos covered, since there are two nuns on his mother's side of the family," Suvari told the New York Daily News last year.

Brides who want to cover ink of their own have a few different options when selecting their wedding dress, depending upon where the tattoo is located. Most skin art can be concealed with a floor-length gown to hide tattoos on legs and ankles, or with long sleeves to cover arm and wrist designs.

Women who want their tattoos covered for the ceremony can wear accessories like long gloves or jackets, and simply remove the extra layers when it's time to party at the reception.

Select the same bridesmaid dresses in different colors
6/28/2010

When outfitting bridesmaids, dresses are traditionally similar from woman to woman - the same style, cut and color. Women who want a little variety in their wedding party, however, can have each bridesmaid wear the same dress but in a different color.

Brides-to-be who opt for this fun assortment of dresses can choose different shades from the same color family, such as navy, cerulean and sky blue, or really add some spice to the wedding photos and select bridesmaids dresses in completely different hues.

Those who opt for bridesmaids dresses in a diverse array of colors should remember that careful shade selection is key, as the colors shouldn't clash with one another. Jewel tones are a great assortment that complement one another. Brides can select sapphire, garnet, emerald and amethyst-colored bridesmaid dresses to create a striking wedding party.

Women should remember, however, that to keep continuity among the bridal party, the dresses' cuts and fabrics must be exactly the same. Even the slightest alteration may keep bridesmaids from looking like a cohesive group.

Celebs wear short dresses to formal events
6/28/2010

While many women look for floor-length gowns to don at formal events, it looks like Hollywood is embracing short dresses at black-tie occasions. The trick to pulling off this look, however, may be in the dress' details.

At the 2010 Tony Awards, Broadway and television star Kristen Chenoweth kept her short dress from appearing too casual by selecting a white mini with a geometric pattern and jewel embellishment. The intricate details made her dress as interesting and bold as a multi-tiered floor-length gown.

That same night, actress Laura Linney rocked a short dress as well. While at first glance her strapless frock seemed simple, the beautiful navy number actually featured a delicate ruffle by her hip and elegantly gathered fabric across the bust.

Women who want to follow in these lovely ladies' footsteps should look for short dresses that boast bold details. In order to score such an ensemble, women should start shopping for the dress of their dreams as early as possible. Fashionistas can scour online stores until they find the perfect little number for their next big event.

Metallic fabrics are great for formal dresses
6/26/2010

Gold and silver jewelry look lovely, so why not add some sparkle to your wardrobe as well? If there's anything the runways have taught us, it's that metallics are always and forever in style.

Taraji P. Henson, an Academy Award nominee and current star of The Karate Kid, kicked some fashion butt on the red carpet for her latest movie premiere. The adorable actress was sporting a seriously sexy short mini-dress made of shimmery gold fabric which sparkled in the sunlight.

Her piece was certainly unforgettable, as it also featured dozens of beautiful bubbles. The look reminded all girls currently in search of formal dresses that unique gold and silver gowns will always dazzle a crowd. And, as Henson showed us, the colors can easily be matched with a standard pair of strappy black heels.

Of course, women should make sure to search way ahead of the game in order to ensure they find the perfect fit for the dress of their dreams. Knowing the color you want to wear is only half the battle - next comes the style!

Yellow dresses are perfect for summer bridesmaids
6/24/2010

Could the color yellow call attention to anything other than spring and summer? The hue almost always evokes visions of honeybees and bright tulips when it shows up in fashion. It might as well be the official color of the warmer months of the year.

Tori Spelling recently showed up to her book signing in this gorgeous tint. Her dress, a short and flowy number, was accentuated with a teeny brown belt and beautiful beige heels.

Summer brides who have yet to pick out their bridesmaids' dresses may want to use Tori's ensemble to coordinate their wedding color scheme. Brown and yellow pair magnificently together, and would look incredible as a professional photographer captures them on their big day.

Also, many online bridal stores are offering amazing sales at the moment. Girls may want to consider looking for these deals if their wedding is scheduled at the end of the season.

As always, it's important to get your girls' opinions. If your bridesmaids vary in weight and height, you may want to allow them to each choose their own dress style. Stick with the same color - such as the same shade of yellow - and they're bound to look unbelievable.

Simple wedding dresses - the wow factor, without too much pizzazz
6/24/2010

While many brides envision walking down the aisle in a Cinderella ball gown with a 10-foot train, others do not. In fact, some girls opt to skip the chaos of wedding planning and instead get hitched at a causal, intimate affair.

Of course, there are even the no-frills gals that nix all sorts of planning and decide to elope. However, the rush to the altar doesn't mean a woman shouldn't be dressed in something to remember.

Simple, unforgettable wedding gowns exist. The key is to try to find a piece that speaks to one's personality and fashion-sense, while making a woman feel fantastic about herself.

Those who want to don a white dress but are hoping for something basic can take the plunge and slip into a knee-length number. The piece would look fantastic at a Vegas wedding or a casual restaurant event space.

Also, a long white maxi-dress looks great on most women and is floor-length without feeling too fancy. The piece can also be kept in a girl's closet and worn at other spring and summer events.

Don't give up hope - the perfect wedding dress is out there. Just like Mr Right - the key is to keep looking until you find "the one."

Mother of the bride dresses - from classy to sexy, in an instant
6/24/2010

Mothers of brides have a unique role. They're often expected to be classy and elegant, and yet many ladies want to show off their sexy side.

So when their daughter's big day comes along, what's a woman to wear? Believe it or not, it's possible for a lady to look dignified during the wedding ceremony while being a bit daring at the reception.

Helen Mirren, who is always pretty and polished, recently gave a hint as to how she combines the two ideals. The beautiful actress showed up to the film premiere of Love Ranch in a sexy short cocktail dress that was covered by a sweet and simple cardigan.

Women currently searching for mother of the bride dresses may want to emulate Mirren. Strapless or short-sleeved ball gowns that are covered by a shawl or shrug will look perfect during a couple's wedding vows, and can easily be taken off when the dancing, fun and celebration begins.

Of course, it's the young girl's time to shine, but mothers want to look fantastic, too. All eyes will be on the bride, but next in line is her mom!

Orange dresses are perfect for fall formals
6/23/2010

It's currently blazing outside, but that doesn't mean that cooler weather won't arrive soon. All too often we spend our time soaking up every last minute of the warmer months - when the temperatures finally drop, a lot of us are unprepared.

If there's one area where a girl should avoid this debacle, it's dress shopping. Formal gowns often take a long time to order, and finding the perfect style, shape and length can take weeks – if not months. Because of this, ladies should begin the search now for any fall dress or gown they are planning on slipping into in the autumn.

Jessica Szohr, who currently stars on the hit show Gossip Girl, recently stepped out at the MuchMusic Video Awards and looked incredible in a sunset-orange mini-dress. The number was made from a super shimmery material and was perfectly matched with a pair of stunning silver gladiator heels.

Szohr reminded us that orange can certainly be a gorgeous color if a girl wears it right. The hue will complement fall weather, making it a wonderful option for painting the town a shade of red.

Orange dresses are perfect for fall formals
6/23/2010

It's currently blazing outside, but that doesn't mean that cooler weather won't arrive soon. All too often we spend our time soaking up every last minute of the warmer months - when the temperatures finally drop, a lot of us are unprepared.

If there's one area where a girl should avoid this debacle, it's dress shopping. Formal gowns often take a long time to order, and finding the perfect style, shape and length can take weeks – if not months. Because of this, ladies should begin the search now for any fall dress or gown they are planning on slipping into in the autumn.

Jessica Szohr, who currently stars on the hit show Gossip Girl, recently stepped out at the MuchMusic Video Awards and looked incredible in a sunset-orange mini-dress. The number was made from a super shimmery material and was perfectly matched with a pair of stunning silver gladiator heels.

Szohr reminded us that orange can certainly be a gorgeous color if a girl wears it right. The hue will complement fall weather, making it a wonderful option for painting the town a shade of red.

Kristen Stewart wears a striking ruffle dress
6/22/2010

Everyone knows that good things often come in wonderfully-wrapped packages. Women currently deciding on a gorgeous pageant gown may want to remember this age-old saying while shopping for the perfect winning number.

And, just like a gorgeously decorated present, some of the most eye-catching dresses have ruffles. The detail shows the world that the fashionista is there to see and be seen and that she chose her outfit for its attention-grabbing capabilities.

Kristen Stewart was caught in one such dress at The Twilight Sage: Eclipse premiere in Rome. Her small black ditty had a gigantic ruffle that started at her collarbone and engulfed one of her shoulders. It was flashy and fantastic all at once.

Dresses that emulate this design may be perfect for women looking to make their mark on a stage during competition. The piece is often unforgettable and yet can be striking and stunning.

Women should make sure to start shopping early in order find the best color to suit their personality and sense of style. You want to be yourself in front of the judges, while showing them everything you've got.

Taylor Swift shows off a short, pastel formal dress
6/22/2010

Brides who are currently searching for the best ensembles for their bridesmaids may want to follow Taylor's lead. Although her getup was picture-perfect for the red carpet, the look would be an incredible choice for women as they lead a bride down the aisle.

The You Belong to Me singer also had a big beautiful white bow in her hair, which capped off her sunny appearance. This may also be an option for bridesmaids who want to don some of the same accessories.

A wedding is the bride's time to shine, but her girls have to look fantastic as well. Choosing a light and girly color will come out great in photos and will naturally put a smile on all the guests faces.


Flower-inspired wedding dresses are wonderful for summer weddings
6/22/2010

The summer is here, which means that all around the world fresh flowers are in bloom. With all these beautiful buds popping up everywhere, why not use them for inspiration while wedding dress shopping?

While some brides prefer open back gowns or formfitting bodices to bring out their sexy side, others want to look as ladylike and girly as possible. Beautiful, feminine wedding dresses, which include flower motifs on them, may be the best way to indulge in this trend.

One of the most prominent design details finding its way to the masses at the moment is a big flower delicately placed on a wedding gown. This can either be added to the bottom of button-down bustier, or carefully sewed onto the side of a frock.

Also, lovely lace dresses often naturally boast small flower shapes. The material gives a discreet feeling of spring and summer and looks absolutely sublime on all women.

Brides who aren't sure where to begin should dive head first into the online shopping world and pore over all dress styles and silhouettes. The best thing a girl can do for herself in the months before she walks down the aisle is to prepare and plan ahead.


Black sequined formal dresses are all the rage
6/22/2010

The little black dress has long been a staple of most women's wardrobes - it is the perfect outfit to throw on for a cocktail party or a charity event. Fashionistas looking to add a new little black dress to their closet may want to take a tip from Hollywood's finest and find a great sequined frock.

Recently, celebrities have been stepping out on the red carpet draped in sparkly black formal dresses. It's no surprise that stars wanted to look their best at Dolce and Gabbana's 20th anniversary party, and actress Rachel Weisz did not disappoint! The Definitely, Maybe starlet wore a strapless number that was covered in black sequins.

Camila Alves, better known as Mrs Matthew McConaughey, wore a floor-length black sequined gown at Samsung's Annual Four Seasons of Hope Gala in New York City. Like Weisz, the model didn't add any accessories to her ensemble, and instead let the shiny fabric stand on its own.

Women who want a similar formal dress for an upcoming event should start shopping early - getting a head start is a great way to ensure that you'll find a perfectly fitting dress of your dreams.

Alexis Bledel steals the spotlight in a jewel-embellished short dress
6/22/2010

Whether you're going on a date with a great new guy or heading out for girls night with your closest gal pals, it's always fun to get dressed up for a night out. Women who are looking to paint the town red may want to do so in a great short dress.

Short dresses are fun and flirty, and can be worn with a pair of strappy sandals in the summertime and knee-high boots in the autumn. For a fun twist, fashionistas can pick up a short dress with gem embellishments.

Jewel-embellished short dresses can add a dash of glamor and drama to an otherwise demure ensemble. Recently, Alexis Bledel was seen rocking this trend at the New York City premiere of I Am Love, donning a short, gunmetal-colored sheath dress with a sparkling hem. The young actress paired the embellished dress with matching pumps and a simple black jacket.

Those who want to embrace this look may want to follow Bledel's lead. Because the dress's jeweled hem is an accessory unto itself, women who slip on this style should pair the outfit with minimal jewelry.

Experts remind women to shop early for mother of the bride dresses
6/22/2010

Picking out the perfect wedding gown is definitely a challenge, as is finding the ideal mother of the bride dress. According to experts, women who are walking their daughters down the aisle may want to start shopping for an outfit as early as possible.

"It's a misconception that a mother of the bride can walk into a store at the very last minute and find the perfect dress. It doesn't happen often," Lynn Carbonneau, who owns a Massachusetts boutique, told Worcester Living.

Shop owner Eileen R. Grosse agrees, telling the news source that a good rule of thumb is to allow at least six months to find a mother of the bride dress. "Don't wait until the last minute," Grosse added. "I can't stress that enough."

Mothers may want to check out an online shop - instead of spending hours traveling to different stores, women can look through hundreds of dresses from the comfort of their home.

Daughters looking for the perfect mother of the bride dress may also enjoy the ease of online shopping. Brides-to-be can comb through images of gowns and send a select few to her mother or mother-in-law to choose from.

Black and gold are beautiful colors for formal dresses
6/17/2010

Black goes with everything, but there's no doubt that it's especially sweet with gold. This trend is even hitting the red carpets now, as celebrities are taking advantage of pairing these two spectacular hues.

Nicole Richie was snapped by paparazzi in Sydney, Australia, this week, and the pretty pixie was caught in an adorable Little Black Dress and a shimmery gold jacket. The dark mini-dress complemented her thin figure, while the gold made her entire ensemble pop.

Of course, most ladies can't gallivant over to the Land of Oz for a quick getaway, but they sure can emulate the future Mrs Madden's sense of style. Brides in the midst of wedding planning may even want to use these two tints for their bridesmaid dresses. Who wouldn't want to see their best pals walk down the aisle in an irresistible black cocktail dress that is accentuated with a bright, gold sash?

Remember, finding the perfect dress isn't easy, but it's certainly possible. The best thing a girl can do is to start early and be prepared to look at every shape, style and color out there.

Catherine Zeta-Jones shows off a beautiful mermaid dress
6/14/2010

Is there anything more decadent and lovely than a mermaid dress? The style can be worn by women of every size and shape, and the gown is especially flattering on women who wants to showcase their hips.

Catherine Zeta-Jones was snapped by paparazzi walking the red carpet at the Tony Awards last night, looking like a vision in a light blue and shimmery version of this silhouette.

Prom night is almost here, and girls who are still undecided about what to wear on their big night may find this choice an inspiring one. However, those who only have a few weeks to find the perfect gown should make sure to purchase their dress - stat!

Girls who are about to finish their junior year might consider beginning the search for their senior prom dress now. Students who have an idea of what they want could spend the summer collecting images of gowns they adore, and save their pennies for the right one. Purchasing your dream dress in December or early January will ensure your favored creation arrives on time - and makes your night one to remember.

Follow the celebrity trend and rock a short prom dresses
6/16/2010

While many girls opt for long gowns, short prom dresses may be the next big thing - just take a look at the red carpet! Young Hollywood is ablaze with above-the-knee dresses at their formal events.

At the MTV Movie Awards, Scarlett Johansson, Kristen Stewart and Amanda Seyfreid all rocked formal but short dresses. Johnansson sizzled in a strapless green cocktail-length frock while Stewart wore a rock and roll-inspired sequined mini-dress.

Girls who want to wear a short prom dress but are afraid of showing too much skin should take a page from Seyfreid's style book. The Jennifer's Body star wore a mini-dress as well, but opted for long sleeves, creating a demure yet fashion-forward look.

Short prom dresses are great for young women who may be dwarfed by the layered fabric of a long gown. And remember, as proms are held in the spring and summer months, a shorter length will keep you cooler as you tear it up on the dance floor with your friends.

High school seniors who are shopping for their special ensemble may want to get a head start on their prom shopping to ensure that they find a short prom dress that fits them perfectly.

Find your dream wedding dress - but make sure it's comfortable!
6/16/2010

Every woman dreams about what she'll be wearing when she says "I do," and often brides-to-be pore over dresses of every shape, fit and style.

However, there's one small detail that's often overlooked - comfort!

It's a universal conundrum - does one buy a tight-fitting gown and look slimmer, or go with a perfect fit and feel great all night long? Diane Kruger, star of Inglourious Basterds, recently spoke with Allure about this debacle while enjoying a night on the town.

"Two years ago, I wore an haute couture gown to the Venice Film Festival, and it had a full-on corset - it was gorgeous, but it was a runway piece, and it hadn't been made for life," she told the news outlet.

It sounds absolutely lovely! Still, Kruger goes on to explain how unpleasant her night became.

"The bodice didn't have one of those openings at the bottom. I nearly fainted because it was so tight, and I had to go to the bathroom so badly, but it would have taken an hour to get out of that dress."

Women in search of their dream wedding dress should take a cue from the starlet's experience. Shopping early allows all girls to find the perfect fit and style and walk down the aisle in the dress of their dreams.

Women with curves should embrace their beautiful bodies
6/16/2010

Everyone remembers the film Real Women Have Curves, and for good reason. The film, which starred a pre-Ugly Betty America Ferrera, carried the message that fabulous females don't have to be stick thin to look incredible.

It seems like Jennifer Love Hewitt, who has received a fair amount of slack from the press for putting on some pounds, is finally embracing this idea.

"I'd want to have Gisele Bundchen's body. Even though she's tall and skinny, she does have curves and I think that's hot," The Ghost Whisperer actress told ContactMusic.com.

We're not sure if Bundchen has to worry about her waistline increasing, but we have to agree that a full, hourglass figure can be beautiful. Whether a girl is in the midst of shopping for prom gowns or rummaging through endless amounts of formal dresses, ladies should remember that sexy-plus size dresses are out there.

However, it's always important to shop early to ensure you remain snug as a bug. Whether you prefer a formfitting cocktail dress or are leaning towards a loose ball gown, conducting your search early will guarantee you have the night of your life.

Finding a formal dress that flatters your figure
6/15/2010

When searching for a formal dress for a special occasion, a woman who knows what cut flatters her figure will instantly have a leg up on the other shoppers. But figuring out which style looks best may be tricky.

According to InStyle magazine, those who have a fabulous, curvy figure shouldn't be afraid of semi-fitted styles that show a little skin! Selecting a wrap dress that exposes a bit of cleavage or a sheath that shows some leg may help to create a slimming effect.

Women with a boyish frame can create curves with bias cuts, draping and ruching. Those who want to showcase their slim physique can opt for a-lines and shifts that skim the knee.

Females with a baby bump shouldn't be afraid to rock a great formal dress. The publication suggests staying away from dresses that accentuate the waist and tummy, and instead select monochromatic frocks that flow away from the body, such as empire waist styles.

While knowing what cut flatters your figure is a great help when searching for a perfect formal dress, shopping for your dress early will help to ensure you find the perfect outfit. With an early start, you'll be sure to have enough time to find the most flattering dress for any occasion.

Find a formal dress that drapes
6/15/2010

Fashionistas searching for formal dresses often look to the stars for guidance - stars of television and film, that is! As summer heats up, you still want to look cool, and a great draped dress may be just the style for you.

Kate Beckinsale recently rocked a silken wrap dress at a Los Angeles Film Festival launch dinner. While wrap dresses can often appear casual, the elegant draping of the black silk instantly took the style from drab to fab.

Women of all ages will benefit from a draped dress - the fit can hug you in all the right places and hang loose around any problem areas. To ensure that you'll find the perfect formal dress, however, make sure to hit the online stores early.

Shopping early for an event will give you the opportunity to select the best look possible. You'll have time to pick out the color and cut you desire, and you won't have to be worried about getting stuck with a last-minute outfit.

Once your formal dress is selected, you'll have a chance to pick out the perfect shoes and accessories to highlight your terrific new ensemble.

Lea Michele looks flawless in two dresses at Tony Awards
6/15/2010

From the Emmys to the Golden Globes, Lea Michele is quickly becoming a red carpet staple, and last night's Tony Awards ceremony was no exception. The Glee starlet dazzled in a strapless mustard-colored gown with a flowing train.

But it may not have been the bold color choice that wowed the crowd. Michele's floor length dress fit her perfectly, and flattered the Broadway actress' petite figure.

Later in the night, Michele donned an elegant cream frock, which flowed behind her as she sang down the aisles of the theater and across the stage. Again, like her yellow ensemble, the gown fit the rising star like a glove.

As girls around the country prepare for prom, young fashionistas may want to take some style tips from Lea Michele. Finding a perfectly fitting prom dress can be the key to creating a flawless look.

Remember - how you feel is just as important as how you look. An ill-fitting prom dress may require constant readjustments, not to mention impede on the amount you can boogie on the dance floor!

Formal dresses can be shiny and shimmery
6/15/2010

Formal dresses are often floor-length, but that doesn't mean a cute cocktail dress can't turn heads at a soiree.

In fact, Jennifer Lopez was snapped by paparazzi at an Apollo Theater benefit concert looking bodacious and yet beautiful in a shimmery sexy number that sparkled in the paparazzi lights.

The Jenny from the Block chanteuse reminded women that while gowns that fall to the ground are striking, ones that reach to a girl's knees can also be considered formal wear. Her look perfectly complemented her husband Marc Anthony, who looked dapper in a suit and tie.

However, what good will an elegant ensemble do for a girl unless she shops early? Most dresses are manufactured in China, and between our own vacations and the Chinese New Year - a holiday when workers take two to three weeks off - women should make sure to pick out the dress of their dreams as soon as possible.

We're sure Lopez knew exactly what she was wearing weeks ahead of the affair - with all the events she attends, she better!

Nicky Hilton shows off cute one-shoulder mini dress
6/15/2010

Wedding season is here, which means brides around the world are currently searching for an incredible wedding dress.

However, there's another detail that often boggles the minds of brides-to-be - sifting through scores of bridesmaid dresses. Girls who are in the midst of wedding planning may have a tough time finding one that matches their vision while keeping their bridesmaids happy.

Women who are undecided on what their girls will be wearing can turn to the celebrities for ideas. In fact, Nicky Hilton was recently spotted on the red carpet in a sleek and sexy number that would look fabulous at any wedding.

The one-shoulder black dress is attention-grabbing, but certainly wouldn't overshadow the bride. Also, since the look was formal and yet simple, the silhouette would look beautiful on women of all sizes.

Of course, one of the best actions a bride-to-be can take is to shop online for dresses. After viewing a number of styles that pique her interest, she could email choices to her girls for feedback.

Instead of trekking out to a store and coming up empty-handed, an internet-savvy woman can plan most of her wedding from - believe it or not - her couch!

Catherine Zeta-Jones shows off a beautiful mermaid dress
6/14/2010

Is there anything more decadent and lovely than a mermaid dress? The style can be worn by women of every size and shape, and the gown is especially flattering on women who wants to showcase their hips.

Catherine Zeta-Jones was snapped by paparazzi walking the red carpet at the Tony Awards last night, looking like a vision in a light blue and shimmery version of this silhouette.

Prom night is almost here, and girls who are still undecided about what to wear on their big night may find this choice an inspiring one. However, those who only have a few weeks to find the perfect gown should make sure to purchase their dress - stat!

Girls who are about to finish their junior year might consider beginning the search for their senior prom dress now. Students who have an idea of what they want could spend the summer collecting images of gowns they adore, and save their pennies for the right one. Purchasing your dream dress in December or early January will ensure your favored creation arrives on time - and makes your night one to remember.