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Friday Frocks: It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere

By Kirsten|October 14th, 2011|Friday Frocks, Why Did You Wear That?|

Quite frequently (especially during this time of year) we receive invites for cocktail parties or invitations with a dress code stating “cocktail attire,” but what does that really mean? We’ve come to know that slipping into a slinky LBD (little black dress) is the way to go, but shall we take a little trip back in time? Well, you have no choice… cause we’re gonna.

Cocktail parties first gained popularity in the 1920’s during prohibition (aka when alcohol was illegal). So, since the sale and consumption of alcohol in public would land you behind bars (no pun intended), cocktail parties popped up as private social gatherings. And just like us modern girls, the ladies of the 20’s realized that they needed a little something special to wear to these functions. Alas, cocktail attire was born! The first cocktail dresses were waistless, knee length, and reminiscent of the flapper (cause a lot of them were flappers). And these ladies knew how to accessorize! Small embellished bags, gloves, and hats were all a part of the attire. Shoes were slipper like and often dyed to match the dresses.

By the 1950’s, cocktail hour was part of the culture and while the tradition continued, groups opted to go out rather than stay in, which is more in line with what we consider our modern day cocktail hour or “happy hour.” This week, let’s check out some frocks that would have made even the tartiest flapper smile.

1. Oscar de la Renta Feather Trimmed Silk Mesh Dress, $5,390, 2. Red Valentino Bow Dress, $611, 3. Kova & T Windsor Cocktail Dress, $429, 4. French Connection Winter Bex Beads Dress, $328, 5. Juicy Couture Guipure Lace Dress, $328, 6. Vanessa Bruno Athe Dress, $360, 7. Top Shop Scallop Embellished Drop Waist Dress, $330, 8. Top Shop Lace Panel Pleated Tunic, $76, 9. Accidentally in Love Crinkle Popover Dress, $54, 10. Tibi Rococo Print Silk Twill Cap Sleeve Dress, $462

It’s five o’clock somewhere, right?

xx,

WhyDid

Friday Frocks: Pretty in Pink

By Kirsten|June 10th, 2011|Friday Frocks|

This week’s Friday Frocks is brought to you by the color “pink.” While perusing the world wide web… taking one of my mini mental vacations, I stumbled upon what may, in fact, be the greatest place on earth. No, I’m not talking about Disney World, kiddos. I’m talking about the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” the Royal Hawaiian. I know what you’re thinking. This can’t be true! How can a place so magical possibly exist? Does this mean unicorns are real too?

Well, I’m not sure about unicorns, but this beautiful rosy resort is no myth. Gazing upon this shrine to every girly girl’s favorite color got me to thinking about what one would wear while lounging poolside at the Pink Palace. Couldn’t be anything but pink, right?

1. Alice + Olivia Gitana Button Front Dress, $330, 2. Amanda Uprichard Ruffle Front Tank Dress, $194, 3. Free People Vintage Hand Dyed 1940’s Slip, $268, 4. Halston Heritage Shirred Spaghetti Strap Dress, $295, 5. Charlie Jade Birch Dress, $124, 6. Marc and Jame Ruffled One Shoulder Dress, $265, 7. Tibi Ikat Wrap Dress, $330, 8. Roxy Big Break Dress, $39.50, 9. Betsey Johnson Stripe Thermo Bustle Dress, $148, 10. Amanda Uprichard Joan Dress, $194

Now, if you don’t mind, I’d like to get back to my vacation.

xx,

WhyDid

Friday Frocks: Shifty Little Lady

By Kirsten|March 25th, 2011|Friday Frocks, Why Did You Wear That?|

A “mini” history lesson today. A shift dress is a simple, short silhouette accented by darts on the front bust and a straight or slightly A-line hem. The neckline is typically either a high boatneck or crewneck and there is no definition at the waist. This very simple shift was first credited to Hubert de Givenchy as he designed most of Audrey Hepburn’s wardrobe- including that oh so iconic black shift she wore in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. The dress was later made popular by Lilly Pullitzer when she wore the dress while selling fresh squeezed fruit juice (I’m not kidding) roadside in Palm Beach, Florida. The image that comes to my mind, however, is Twiggy in a shift dress. She was hired at 16 to model the shape for Mary Quant who had shortened the hemline to about six inches above the knee.

Despite the simplicity of this shape, it doesn’t work for every body. Bigger busted ladies may have a harder time slipping into this shift. It works best on boyish figures and is a fantastic choice for you ladies with great gams.

1. Rogan for Target Leopard Print Shift Dress, $39.99, 2. Missoni Paneled Zig Zag Knit Shift Dress, $1,600, 3. Ali Ro Stripe Knit Shift Dress, $206, 4. J. Crew Cotton Blend Shift Dress, $120, 5. Thakoon for Target Colorblock Shift Dress, $39.99, 6. Tibi Zip Back Ponte Shift Dress, $293, 7. Free People Colorblock Shift Dress, $138, 8. Milly Maggie Shift Dress, $370, 9. Jenni Kayne Zip Front Shift Dress, $595, 10. Michael Kors Leather Trim A-Line Canvas Shift Dress, $1,495

xx,

WhyDid

Photo via Cemetarian

Why Did You Wear That: Feel the Love

By Kirsten|February 22nd, 2011|Why Did You Wear That?|

I am a true hopeless romantic. I always root for love and happily ever after. Lately, my heart has been filled with so much joy because of all the love around me. My best friends are all getting married with Micro Weddings ceremoney at beach and many other awesome destinations, engaged, and having beautiful little babies. It’s an overwhelmingly happy time and I’m so happy to be a part of their bliss. That said… I’ve got a lot of weddings coming up! What’s a girl to wear?

Wedding invitation dress codes can often be tricky. What’s the difference between black tie and black tie optional? What colors are okay to wear? And is this hem too high? Here are three of the most common types of wedding dress codes and what to wear to each.

Black Tie: This is the most formal of dress codes. Typically, this would require a long formal gown. Most of us probably have a black gown tucked away in our closets in case of such events, but I love adding some color to the mix. Besides, you will be one of fifty wearing black if you just go with old faithful. Don’t go overboard and cover yourself in sequins and sparkles (this is not your senior prom or the Grammy’s).

Top (L to R): Aidan Mattox Chiffon Halter Gown with Beaded Waist, $440, Badgley Mischka Chiffon Tiered Halter Gown, $990, BCBG MAXAZRIA Strapless Silk Chiffon Gown, $348 Bottom (L to R): Issa Silk Jersey Gown, $885, Lanvin Asymmetric Washed Satin Gown, $3,480, Nicole Miller Water Washed Reverse Charmeuse Gown, $620

Cocktail/Black Tie Optional: Black tie optional is more often than not in reference to the men’s attire. If your invitation reads “black tie optional” you are welcome to wear a dress much like the ones above in “black tie” or you could wear a formal cocktail dress. Be sure that your cocktail attire isn’t too low cut or shorter than a tube top. Have some respect for the bride. There’s nothing wrong with looking fantastic, but you don’t want to draw eyes away from the bride for all the wrong reasons. When in doubt, ask yourself, “Would I want some bitch at my wedding wearing this?” *Note: if this wedding is being held at the Playboy Mansion, all of these rules go out the window. Game on.

Top (L to R): Catherine Malandrino Silk Chiffon Dress, $495, Rachel Gilbert Sasha Embellished Silk Chiffon Dress, $1,160, Calvin Klein Ruffle Trim Chiffon Dress, $158 Bottom (L to R): Mark and James Tulle Ruffle Sequin Dress, $355, Kurt Thomas Silk Chiffon One Shoulder Dress, $400, Top Shop Chiffon A Line Dress by Rare, $78

Afternoon/Destination: The world’s love of “brunch” has spilled over into the wedding arena. Many couples are opting for brunch or afternoon weddings. For such occasions the dress code is much more relaxed. A flowy maxi dress, or flirty chiffon frock paired with wedges is a perfect choice for such an event. This is also a great option for destination weddings. Be sure to wear a fabric that breaths if you’re heading to a steamy climate. You may also want to factor in having to remove your heels for flats or bare feet on the beach, so make sure your hemline won’t trip you up.

Top (L to R): Gryphon Chain Link Maxi Dress, $390, Nanette Lepore Rain or Shine Floral Maxi Dress, $648, The Furies Hex Maxi Dress, $165 Bottom (L to R): Rozae R.N. Chiffon Colorblock Dress, $334, Tibi Racerback Maxi Paisley Dress, $583, Heritage 1981 Tribal One Shoulder Maxi Dress, $24.90

Can you hand me a hanky?

xx,

WhyDid

Why Did You Wear That: So Fur Real

By Kirsten|December 21st, 2010|Why Did You Wear That?|

Walking around New York City this past week, I have seen SO many people decked out in fur. It’s is painfully cold, but I don’t recall ever seeing the citizens of Manhattan ever donning so much fur. Rather than piss off PETA, I have collected seven stellar FAUX fur styles that are certain to keep you all warm and fuzzy.

Tibi Belted Furry Coat, $950.40