Finding the Right Dress

Bluebonnet, the Texas State Flower

It’s a new season and time for a slight update on my wardrobe.  I tend to shop around March and August of each year to make sure that I’m including some trend pieces among my basics.  This year, with cost being a huge factor, I’ve decided to opt for a couple of great pieces instead of the usual myriad of sundresses, cute tees and too many shoes.  (I’m officially cutting myself off buying shoes.  I think there are several pairs that I’ve yet to wear outside.)

Here are some cute cocktail dresses under consideration (I’m trying to pick just two with a $600 budget):

ABS by Allen Schwartz Women’s Short Strapless Ruffled Silk Chiffon Dress. $385

I love this dress.  It’s perfect for a cute sundress with strappy Brazilian sandals, boho bracelets and my hobo Furla bag for day wear.  Then, a change of shoes, my nude ginormous hoop earrings and a small clutch to translate to night wear.  The ruffles help hide my awesome potbelly (from all the delish foods I can’t keep my hands off of) and is just short enough to accentuate my calves.  I can also wear a short shrug for those frisky Bay Area nights.  If I opt for a less expensive other dress, this could actually work in my budget.

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Laundry by Shelli Segal Navy Pleated Cocktail Dress. $365

This is so sophisticated and sleek.  I love that I can pair this with some cute Michael Kors nautical shoes and carry off the sailor-girl look for fleet week.   The waistline is perfect to accentuate my body shape.  The big question: will my boobs fit into that tiny top without my wide shoulders looking like She-Hulk?  Maybe…

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French Connection “Flutterbuy” Beach Cotton Dress. $118

The colors scream warm summer nights.  I love that the top covers up my shoulders and a cute belt will pull the entire ensemble together. It’ll even go perfectly with jeans, since that seam looks a bit on the short side.  However, I’m probably going to go to Forever 21 or H&M for the $20 option.

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Urban Outfitter’s Urban Renewal Secretary Dress. $68

This dress is such a statement.  And for $68.  It’s already in my shopping cart.  I just need to check the bust measurements and make sure I’m not bursting out of it (ick).

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Ecote Warei Dress. @Urban Outfitters for $48.

Hmm… I love the pattern.  The wasitband. The sexy neckline (or better yet, cleavage line).  The straps that don’t call too much attention to my arms.  It’s short enough for a cute sundress.  Oh… and it’s only $48!

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Overall, I think that if I opt for the ABS chiffon dress and the two Urban creations, I can totally be $100 under budget.  OR I can get the French Connection summer dress and pick one of the Urban dresses.  Thoughts?