Dress Challenge: Black Tie, Warm Weather Glamour

3.1 Philip Lim Sequin Broomstick Pleated Dress, $895 at La Garconne

A very dear friend of mine is getting married in Arizona next month, and naturally this has me thinking of dresses.  The locale is the Royal Palms Resort:  an opulent 1920’s Spanish mansion nestled into a citrus grove.  Needless to say, it calls for a little glamour, preferably of the Old Hollywood sort.

The above sequined number by 3.1 Philip Lim manages to be both interesting and effortless.  Add stud earrings, heels and a clutch and you’re done.

Issa Silk-Jersey Plunge-Front Gown, $950 at Net-a-Porter

This Issa gown has the prettiest berry color.  Nudes may be chic, but many of us are still sporting pale winter skin, and a deep fuschia shade like this would work well.

Another Issa Plunge-Front Silk-Jersey Gown, $545 at Net-a-Porter

On the topic of nudes, I like that this one has plenty of warmth to it.  Long sleeves aren’t usually a draw, but they balance the plunging neckline, and they feel unexpected.  I also don’t love fussing with wraps at outdoor weddings; the sleeves would keep arms toasty after sunset.

Robert Rodriguez Bright Bodice Gown, $100 to rent at Rent the Runway

The pink goddess gown above is my very solid backup.  Cheery color, easy to accessorize, and low-commitment since it’s rentable from Rent The Runway.

And now for the complete, utter fantasy portion of this post – I mean, come on, it’s ZAC POSEN:

Zac Posen Angelica Crepe-Jersey Gown, $2,225 at Net-a-Porter

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Unexpected modest cutouts, dramatic silhouette, vibrant color.  Thoroughly unattainable, but isn’t this dress perfection?