In this (infrequent) series of posts, I’ll pull looks from past events and walk through my styling strategy, from hair to shoes.

THE DRESS: The July 2009 issue of InStyle magazine featured a fashion spread with Marion Cotillard. In one photo (left), she wore a black, floor-length Reem Acra jersey gown. I became obsessed. The beautiful draping into a high, middle slit, the plunging neckline, the ruching at the sleeves — FLAWLESS. I had to have this dress! There’s only one small problem. No way can I afford a Reem Acra gown. 

December 2009, I traveled to the Philippines to spend the holidays with my family. I would attempt to have my dream dress made. Dressmakers in the Philippines are affordable and able to make dresses simply from looking at a photo. My niece helped me pick a fabric. I selected a matte jersey so I could match the draping, but I opted for a teal color. Typically, I avoid wearing black for black-tie events.  Continue reading →