Any snob worth her salt knows the spring season means it’s gala season. And whether you’ve received an engraved invitation or three, or have no event to R.S.V.P. to, who cares?! We all know that getting dressed up is at very least half the fun of doing just about anything, especially attending stuffy affairs (although free bubbly does have its advantages). Warm May days mean getting dressed up is fun again – bare legs! no coats to cover up pretty cocktail dresses! So bring the gala with you wherever you end up going, whether there will be cater-waiters in bowties or well-drinks in plastic cups, on the red carpet or sidewalk. Some of the best advice I’ve ever heard is to dress for the life you want to live, not for the life you are necessarily living. Although, I’d keep satin shoes away from your local dive bar!
Stand out amongst the sea of black silk-chiffons and champagne satins in an ombré fluorescent-green lace gown – don’t you know a little neon makes everything more fun? As edgy as a cocktail of cotton, lace, ankle-length, and long-sleeves has ever been. Alessandra Rich Dégradé Lace-Covered Cotton and Silk-Blend Gown. On Net-a-Porter for $3,500.
The sky-high pointy-toed pump is back with a vengeance. She’s fiercer and sharper than ever! Christian Louboutin is a classic evening choice. Choose between keeping things coordinated in black or lightening your look in nude – both patent-leather, both killer sexy heels. Black Patent Pump, $595, and Nude Pointed-Toe Pump, $695, at Bergdorf Goodman.
You can’t carry a traditionally elegant clutch when your dress is anything but conventional. Jimmy Choo‘s suede clutch comes with its own jewel, a glittering green snake. Jimmy Choo “Candice” Swarovski Crystal Suede Clutch. On Net-a-Porter for $1,595.
When strutting into a gala all eyes aren’t only on your gown – now is the time jewels really count! Cinderella would never have been admitted to her prince’s ball without some bling, you can could on that. Think big, statement earrings and layered diamond bracelets. Go sparkly or go home! Irene Neuwirth Diamond 4-Drop Earrings. At Barneys New York for $19,580.
Irene Neuwirth Diamond Pave Large Link Bracelet. At Barneys New York for $17,300.
Federica Rettore Diamond Bangle, $8,975 for 18-karat rose-gold and steel set with diamonds, and $16,725 for 18-karat rose-gold set with brown navette diamonds.