by trish on November 7, 2008

Now that the election is over the real competition can begin – the race to get a ticket to the Inaugural Ball. Although it isn’t until January people are talking already debating how to make a splashy entrance to what is guaranteed to be a historic party.
But what are the rest of us mere mortals to do? And must we wait until the beginning of 2009 to get all dressed up? With the holiday season fast approaching we are given the opportunity to step out of our every day clothes and put on something glam. So while everyone at your office holiday party will have on similar dresses from department stores (cough * Ann Taylor Loft and Bloomingdales *cough) fashion from independent designers can give you a fresh and innovative appearance.
The black Hidden Sash Dress cinches the waist and provides a long, elegant silhouette. The Jolie Jolie feather purse is a statement piece that will give a unique boost to an otherwise plain outfit. Both pairs of earrings and the onyx necklace were chosen because a drop of shimmer can be incredibly graceful with a v-neck or strapless dress. The gold Taylor Gown has a dramatic back and a small train that together are smoldering.
These items have design elements that are whimsical, classic, and seductive. Which, as it turns out, are also words that can describe a great bash – political or otherwise. Just don’t be surprised when you walk into the big event and are voted best dressed.
Hidden Sash Dress – Samoy Lenko
Jolie Jolie in Black – Rlee Collection
Taylor Evening Gown – The 615 Project
Sparkling Flower and Pearl Earrings – Scorpienna’s Beadery
Emerald and Gold Chandelier Earrings – Scorpienna’s Beadery
Black Onyx Pendant Necklace – Chic Gems, etc. Jewelry
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Closet Caucus provides wardrobe editing services for clients in the Washington, DC, area. You can read up to the minute information about the business on twitter by following @closetcaucus.
by trish on August 15, 2008

It’s early morning in late September, and I’m rushing off to get the boys to school and then onto business in Manhattan. After an hour of closet time the night before, I’ve figured out the perfect thing to wear. It’s all Indie fashions for me today. These pieces will intrigue even the über fashionistas of Seventh Avenue. They will, no doubt, be wondering “who are you wearing?”. These days it’s consider “JV” in the fashion world to only embrace the big designer labels. The real challenge is to discover the next “It” designer, and to wear pieces that people haven’t seen all over the streets. The Krelwear dress is enough to make me giddy. It’s light weight enough to last through the afternoon heat. Simply pop on an Anne De Pasquale hat to combat the September morning chill. Luckily, I’ve found a way to look chic and walk comfortably through the streets of Manhattan. I’ve chosen the perfect pair of Ricardo Tovar gladiators. Grab a Mi Mo hobo bag – big enough to carry all the day’s necessities. Top the outfit off with some beautiful jewelry. The Scorpienna’s Beadery earrings will bring out the pink in my cheeks in the most subtle way, while the Mushka Designs necklace will dance across my chest like the leaves of Fall on a breezy day. Lastly, I clasp on a Twist Style bracelet for added feminine detail. GASP! I’ve done it. I have found the middle ground between active mom, and fabulous entrepeneur. Thanks Smashing Darling! Jean Voute Pratt – Style Observer and Gift Girl
Center photo: KRELwear – V-neck waisted dress
Clockwise:
Anne de Pasquale – Kat’s Beret
Scorpienna’s Beadery – Rhodonite Flower Earrings
Mushka Design’s – Mod Petal Necklace – Brass
Twist Style – Freshwater Pearl and Semi Precious Bracelet with Antique Button
Ricardo Tovar – Black Patent Leather Gladiator
Mo Mo Handbags – Cari 903A Brown
Contact me if you would like to try your hand at being the next Editor for the day with our Editor’s Picks. We love to link to other blogs and sites, so it is a great way to get something out there that you want to promote! email me trish(at)smashingdarling(dot)com. Keep checking in…tomorrow we have the weekly Scavenger Hunt. Play along and you could win a fabulous Student Smash Up!