Black Tie Dresses That You'll Actually Want to Wear & Holiday Dresses that Shine

Black Tie Dresses That You'll Actually Want to Wear & Holiday Dresses that Shine

Via

There was a time when I was constantly being invited to black tie, formal events. I never knew what to wear! I've never been a big fan of buying one expensive dress when I could buy several for the same price-or less. Black tie events seemed to require a statement dress, and I didn't have one just waiting in the wings. I've often found acceptable ones at TJMaxx, Marshalls, and even Kohls in the past. 

However, if I were invited to any kind of formal event now, I would leap with joy and buy one of these. So please, send those invites! And, as always, if I ever have a sponsored post, I'll let you know. This isn't one. 

Left, Right similar in plus size here

The beautiful thing about these statement dresses is that they would require little to no other styling: simple shoes, hair, makeup, and accessories. Wouldn't that be the nicest way to travel to an event? Just bring the dress, wash your hair, and you're ready to go. Looking for something brighter or shorter? It's expensive, but man is this a gorgeous dress! I love that (or this in plus size) for an Indian wedding.

Speaking of statement dresses, if you're already anticipating getting invited to (or hosting!) a great holiday party, these dresses could be for you. 

Via

For a holiday dress, I have two simple requirements: I need to be able to dance and eat in it, and I need to be able to wear it for more than one holiday season. That means I tend to look for dresses that are forgiving around the waist in a classic shape and/or fabric. The dress above, for example, is a classic black, and when have sequins ever not been in style? The sleeves temper the shortness so I think I could get away with it for awhile. I love these options, too!

Via

Via

I also have to mention this fun jumpsuit if you want an alternative to a dress. I wore a jumpsuit to my best friend's wedding in January last year, and I felt so comfortable and stylish at the same time. 

And I'm sorry to be talking about holiday parties so early on. I'm not an advocate of speeding the seasons past at all, but I do know that we women like to plan ahead so I thought I'd share these dresses yesterday and today in that spirit. 

Also, if you're looking for a bridesmaid dress that won't get shoved in the back of your closet, this is brilliant.