FOR EVENINGWEAR, WHAT'S IN STYLE IS WHAT FITS YOU BEST
Say goodbye to strict rules for eveningwear - this summer's sultry styles run the gamut from micro-short and flowing to long and body-hugging.
The only guideline is to wear what is flattering on you. Short styles, carried over from spring, are perfect for women with great legs. And the new halter style that skims the floor is a good choice for women with toned upper bodies.
Molly Berry, store manager/buyer for T. Wynn Studio in Briarcliff Village, has seen a change in buying trends.
"I've been really surprised by all of the people buying short for evening, even for formal events," Berry says. "I really like things that aren't so form-fitting, like a short dress that shows off your legs but is blousy; it looks more modern and updated. Silhouettes that are not form-fitting but more balloonish in style are sexier. When you're not showing everything, it leaves something to the imagination."
At the other end of the spectrum are long, slinky silhouettes, reminiscent of the 1970s. "Silhouettes for eveningwear are morphing from the 'formal' baby doll/Grecian look to a more fitted style," said Betsy Blodgett, designer and co-owner of Bon Bon Atelier. Think the classic ball gown, with a huge puffy skirt and fitted top, or a 1940s style mixed with a
Vionnet fitted look.
"With the re-emergence of the Halston brand it's inevitable that this style will come creeping back and really, that's not a bad thing - who wouldn't want to look like Bianca Jagger at Studio 54?"
When it comes to color, metallics and bold brights are the hottest hues for steamy nights.
"I've seen a lot of red and purple cropping up in formalwear lately," Blodgett said. "I love any strong color in a beautiful dress. Stay away from the highlighter bright colors. Those are not meant to be made into a ball gown. I recently saw a girl in a prom dress in a highlighter yellow gown with sequins; it just wasn't the way to go."
With any special event, you need to take into consideration the location, the invitation's dress code and your comfort level when choosing a dress. Even though a plunging neckline may look amazing on you, if you don't feel confident in it, you will end up tugging on it all night (not terribly glamorous).
In the end, Blodgett said, "You have
to go with your personality and body shape. I'm more of a fluffy tulle girl than a fitted Halston girl - I just don't have the height or the sleekness."
Gold Mine: Shades of gold are flattering against almost every skin tone and add sparkle to your evening. Nicole Miller designed this body-hugging stretch gown that emphasizes a slim torso. Light gold dress $429, Hemline; gold necklace $274, Feng
Opposites attract: Black and white is a classic combination that always makes a stunning entrance. Sue Wong designed this graphic black-and-white dress. Theory designed the pinstripe suit, worn by Wizard's soccer player Michael Harrington. Polka dot dress $444, Feng; pinstripe suit $895, tie $98, tee $24, Standard Style Boutique
Think green: The environmental movement has sparked a renewed interest in the color, too. This short voluminous dress, by Voom, features oversized beads at the shoulders and side pockets. Green dress $218, Girl Boutique
Let it shine: Metallic hues in silver and gold are brightening up formal events this summer. Tracy Reese designed this gold tea-length sequin dress. Theory designed the silver gray suit. Gold sequin dress $595, Standard Style Boutique, gray jacket $475, gray pants $225, Theory shirt $175; gold bracelet $1,726, Feng