Keepin’ It Classy: $90 Off Lisa Curran’s Chic (Not Skimpy) Swimwear

Just because it’s swimsuit season doesn’t mean you have to resort to a barely-there bikini. Don’t get us wrong — you…Read More

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Washington, D.C.
Shopping Guides
Apr 27, 2012 6:00 AM EDT
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10 Chic Dresses Your Bridesmaids Will Love

Bridezillas — we've all seen 'em. While you may have promised yourself that you're going to be a low-key bride with a laid-back 'tude on your wedding day, we all know that (almost) never actually happens. Some sort of crisis beyond your control will undoubtedly pop up, whether it's a ripped veil, a drunk uncle, or, God forbid, a groom with cold feet. One thing you can control, though: how you outfit your bridal party, and (more importantly!) whether you leave your maids feeling cranky and uncomfortable or glowing and grateful.

We want you to go for the latter, so we went ahead and pulled together some of the best frocks out there, in all sorts of amazing cuts and colors. The best part? We'd legitimately buy a lot of these babies even if we weren't in a bridal party. So, when you tell your besties they can totally wear these again, you might get something other than an eye-roll in return. How's that for wedded bliss?
Washington, D.C.
Spring Fashion
Apr 20, 2012 6:00 AM EDT
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Plus-Size Cocktail Dresses: 12 Fancy Frocks To Flaunt Your Curves

Every girl, no matter her shape or size, needs at least one go-to cocktail dress that she can turn to for an unexpected party or a last-minute event. You know — that staple frock that always looks good, feels appropriate, and fits like a charm. We know that that search for the perfect dress becomes a lot more challenging, when you're sifting through plus-size offerings that are…less than inspired.

So, we did some homework for you (and we never did our friends' homework in school, so you know you're special) to select a solid batch of beautiful, figure-flattering dresses that'll show off your curves in serious style. We handpicked more than a few winners that will get you through gala season, a dozen summer weddings, and a few dress-to-impress shindigs—surely that deserves an A+, right?
Washington, D.C.
Outfits
Apr 11, 2012 6:00 AM EDT
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1 Dress, 3 Ways: How To Wear The Perfect Summer Sundress To Work

During a sticky-hot D.C. summer (you know it's coming), the essential item you need in your closet is a go-to, easy-to-style sundress. And here's a pro tip: If you score the right one, you can wear it everywhere, even to work. The secret? Opt for a breezy, silky sundress with a simple silhouette, and choose accessories that add polish, structure, and even some softness.

We've whipped up a pre-summer primer for you, crafting three perfect outfits for your 9-to-5 drill that are still light and cool enough for a sweaty commute. Read on for the genius styling tricks that will triple your wardrobe's potential way before it gets hot and humid out.

cardiganFlats

Look 1: Cute and Comfy
Topping your go-to sundress with a cozy cardigan is a no-brainer for chilly spring days. Here, a classic ivory cardigan and braided leather belt make the dress look polished and pretty, while leopard flats introduce a fun pop of pattern. A geometric clutch and earrings add just the right amount of structural edge to an otherwise ultra-femme look.

From left: H&M Cardigan, $17.95, available at H&M; Linea Pelle Skinny Braided Wrap Hip Belt, $121, available at Shopbop; Pretty Nana Ballet Flats, $117, available at YOOX; American Vintage Mango Silk Dress, $145, available at Stylebop; Forever 21 Lacquered Geo Earrings, $3.80, available at Forever 21; Mossimo Colorblock Pink Envelope Clutch, $16.99, available at Target stores.

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Washington, D.C.
Spring Fashion
Apr 4, 2012 6:00 AM EDT
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Black-Tie 101: 15 Gorgeous Gowns For D.C.'s Party Circuit

It's April in D.C., which means it's party time — as in, time for black-tie dinners, fancy cocktail parties, and swank galas. If you're finding yourself on the receiving end of a few invites — maybe your office is throwing a shindig or you've snagged a ticket to one of the many charitable soirées coming up — you need a go-to formal dress that looks great and makes you feel like the belle of the ball. This is especially true if this is your first big-ticket event and you're sortafreakingoutrightnow because you don't have anything to wear.

But don't fret! We've rounded up a bevy of beautiful dresses, from elegant minis to statement maxis, that will have you black-tie ready in minutes, no matter your budget. And even if this isn't your first time on the guest list, we're pretty sure you'll find a frock here that you just can't live without. Click through to size 'em up for yourself.
Washington, D.C.
Shopping Guides
Mar 27, 2012 6:00 AM EDT
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14 Gorg, Unconventional Wedding Gowns For The Seriously Cool Bride

We suspect you already know this, but just in case you need some reminding, you're not exactly ordinary. We'd go so far as to say you're special. Totally unique, completely original — you get our point. So, when it comes to marrying your special someone, why limit yourself to a traditional wedding dress? Why not think outside the old-fashioned bridal box and choose a dress that shows your personality, your sense of style, and your best features?

Plus, we know that, if you're planning a wedding, you have plenty of other things on your mind. That's why we're giving you a hand and gathering up some truly amazing dresses you can wear for your stroll down the aisle — and not a single one of them is a standard-issue bridal gown. We've got breezy lace frocks for country weddings, jaw-dropping designer confections, and ultra-simple (but incredibly chic) short numbers for City Hall ceremonies. However you spend your special day, we're confident you'll be impressed by, then smitten with, and then perfectly comfortable, in these options. Isn't that how true love always goes?
Dresses
Mar 7, 2012 6:00 AM
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11 Dresses We Wish We Had For Prom (Or Now!)

When we think of prom, all those nerve-racking high school butterflies come rushing back…mainly because we're recalling our cringe-worthy outfits, our snooze-worthy shoes, sticking our dates with corsages, and (okay, maybe not) getting "food poisoning" the day after. But, we want to replace those memories with fresh ones for the bright-eyed among us who might still be looking ahead to prom. And for the rest of us, a new party dress never hurt anyone. Sure, getting dolled up for a big night out can always mean staying sassy and youthful, but no one says the end result has to be froufrou, glitzed up, and crazy-trendy in a way that'll embarass you next season. Instead, we're giving you 11 dresses that'll last a lifetime — just like the memories (awww).

Get the scoop on 11 super-chic dresses perfect for prom — or any spring party, really.

Los Angeles
Shopping Roundups
Feb 20, 2012 4:00 AM PST
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The Hottest Cocktail Frocks And Finery You NEED For The Oscars

Let’s be honest: Our favorite Academy Awards activities are not red-carpet star-gazing, or even listening to those heartfelt speeches — although both can be wildly entertaining. Truth? Our one true love, when it comes to the whirlwind awards season, is the non-stop party-hopping that comes with it (can you blame us?). And when it comes to the upcoming evening of Oscar, every seasoned vet knows that it’s all about bringing your A+ game — and being ridiculously over-prepared.

So, to alleviate some of the pressure (and confusion) that may come with a "cocktail attire"-specified soirée, we’ve rounded up 20 of the sleekest party picks. Trust us, the last thing you want is to trot into a fête looking slap-dashed and underdressed. From sky-high Charlotte Olympias to a dazzling Lanvin pantsuit, see the unique items that will transform you into the belle of the Oscars-themed ball.
Fashion Tips
Jan 27, 2012 7:30 AM
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7 Sneaky Ways To Wear Spring Dresses Now

There are few things in the world that make us feel as lovely as springtime frocks do, and — trust us — we really need to get that feeling back while we're in the depths of winter. It's not too early to dig 'em out from the back of your closet; with a few clever layering ideas, your spring dresses will make an easy transition into your winter wardrobe. Just remember…you have to wear tights.
Los Angeles
Dresses
Jan 13, 2012 10:30 AM PST
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Our New Site Obsession, Now 50% Off!

Last month we tipped you off to our new online obsession, L.A.-based AlleyCat Trade, and now we've got an unbelievable update to share: It's all 50% off!

The fashion-savvy folks at R29's Reserve are slashing the prices in half on all of the site's swoon-worthy wares. Get in on the action fast because time's a-tickin' on the deal, with only 11 days remaining.

Until now, this uber-chic e-tailer has remained under-the-radar, and before you know it, ACT will be the Next Big Thing on the 'net. With exclusive-to-the-U.S. designers like Alice McCall, Jacey Withers, and Magdalena Velevska, every piece on the site is super unique, and sure to catapult your closet into style overdrive.

We cross our hearts, promise, and pinky swear that AlleyCat Trade will have you meowing for more! Don't believe us? Check out some of our favorite pieces after the jump...and then nab that Reserve before it's too late. We know we will!

Photography: Courtesy of AlleyCat Trade.
Washington, D.C.
Outfits
Jan 13, 2012 9:00 AM EST
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Fashion Plates: A Hot Outfit For Little Serow's Sweet & Spicy Thai

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If you've never heeded the siren's call to dine at Dupont Circle's Komi, local foodies will tell you that, well, you just haven't lived. Chef Johnny Monis has been called everything from "one of the brightest stars in the Washington dining firmament" to a "culinary gangster," and lucky for us, he's opened Little Serow, a new, under-the-radar (and more affordable) spot right next door, where he and wife Anne Marler serve up authentic Thai in a chill setting. At Little Serow (sounds like "arrow"), the menu is posted online every Monday, and you can't make reservations (or any changes to the dishes on offer). The food is served family-style at $45 per person, which is a steal compared to Komi's $135-a-pop dinners.

Now—what to wear? The venue is low-key but the food is first-class, so we've picked a chic, understated dress and a tailored blazer for a look that's timeless without trying too hard. Like the flavorful spikes of heat, sweetness, and tang in Monis's dishes, we've spiced things up with a neon pink lippie and a sexy cutout heel. Now, all you have to do is dress up and dig in.

From left: TopShop Premium Stand Out Tux Blazer, $150, available at TopShop; Garnett Jewelry Fragmented Necklace, $68, available at Need Supply; Tibi Cap Sleeve Dress, $209.55, available at My Wardrobe; Bobbi Brown Lip Color in Neon Pink, $23, available at Blue Mercury; Melie Bianco Agnes Satchel, $70, available at Piperlime; Rosegold Modern Vintage Cutout Wedge, $188, available at Urban Outfitters.


Photo: Courtesy of Little Serow/Dakota Fine

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Shopping Roundups
Dec 13, 2011 7:30 AM
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11 Perfect Last-Minute Party Dresses

Somehow, you've managed to walk right past a million holiday shop windows, ignore dozens of party dress slideshows online, and somehow skip all the dress shopping requests from your BFF…and suddenly, your big holiday bash is this weekend. It's crunch-time, ladies. You might not have time to really hit the pavement before then, so we've made your life a little easier by providing some last-minute party dress options in full size ranges, no-fuss shapes, and from retailers that offer super-quick shipping. So, stop procrastinating, you bums, and pull out that credit card — buy your dress now before you really find yourself in panic mode.

Photo: Courtesy of Macy's
Plus Size
Dec 2, 2011 1:20 PM
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Pop The Champers! We've Got Pretty Plus-Size Party Dresses And Separates

Somehow, it’s already December and with a jam-packed schedule of cocktail parties, corporate holiday fetes, dreidel tournaments, tree lightings, latke eatings, ham carvings, and midnight countdowns ahead of us, there are a whole lot of opportunities to look glam. I love taking advantage of all the glittery and sequined pieces available throughout the holidays, so forgive me while I totally overdose on sparkle and encourage you to do the same! Forge ahead for a gallery of curvalicious glitzy, glam, gem-toned pieces to fill the countdown to New Year's.