Alice And Olivia

Top 10 Fabulous Bustier Dresses That Mix Structure With Sexiness

Alex Gambardella on Nov 6, 2009 10:19 AM PST

I don't care what my credit card statement reads -- I say it's never too early to pick out the perfect New Year's Eve dress (unless you plan to really let yourself go at the dinner table this holiday season -- yikes)! What I'm really loving for the cocktail party season ahead is bustier dresses -- a little reminiscent of Madonna's "Like A Virgin" days (in a cool way, of course), yet updated with more subtle hidden boning, chiffon layers, and fun florals and lace. Bustiers juxtapose conservative structure with a snug fit that without revealing too much, yet unlike an old-fashioned corset, you can actually breathe. Blur the lines between girly and edgy with this studded belt bustier from Forever 21, or go full-on flirty with this floaty strapless sheath by Donna Morgan. Browse through the slideshow for a selection of my favorite 10 bustier dresses!

Tags : structured , strapless dresses , strapless dress , strapless , alice and olivia

7 Seriously Alluring (And Wearable!) Leather Mini Dresses

Alex Gambardella on Oct 27, 2009 2:18 PM PDT

Fashionistas just can't get enough of leather this fall. Moto jacket? Check. Fingerless driving gloves? Check. Liquid leggings? Check, once you work up the nerve to actually wear them. But one thing you may have yet to add to your autumn trend arsenal is a leather dress! I know it sounds risky, since prior to this recent leather invasion you probably associate the material mostly with biker babes and dominatrices, but you may be surprised to find that this season's leather LBDs aren't overdramatic. Instead, the latest leather minis simply provide a sexy sheen to otherwise modest silhouettes like this Gryphon smock dress and this shift dress from Alice + Olivia. Pair with a killer set of ankle booties for your next dressy night out, or add some serious sparkle with a bib necklace and you've got yourself a New Years Eve ensemble (hey, it's never too early to plan ahead)! Check the slideshow for some of my favorite leather dresses.

Tags : urban renewal , urban outfitters , smock dress , shift dresses , alice and olivia

Influential International Style: Kate Lanphear

kate napleton on Aug 20, 2009 4:19 PM PDT

Oh, to be Kate Lanphear! The acclaimed senior fashion editor at Elle and style icon to all urban girls everywhere manages to take grey and black and combine them, twist them, and surprise you with a few basic ingredients. Seriously, just do a quick Google image search - you'll see Lanphear in jeans, t-shirts, blazers, and cashmere, and always looking chic. She's a serious reminder that a minimalist closet can take you very far. Just stock up on a few key pieces and you'll be on your merry way to super-star style status. Though Lanphear prefers Alexander Wang, Aussie Lee Supa Tubes jeans, and Balenciaga, there are definitely ways to achieve a similar look in your price range! Check out my slideshow for some starter pieces to an awesome style! Photo Credit: The Sartorialist

Tags : netaporter , net-a-porter , magazines , magazine , alice and olivia

Influential International Style: Helena Christensen

kate napleton on Jun 7, 2009 5:08 AM PDT

How many women of incredible fashion influence can call themselves Victoria's Secret Angels? Well, Heidi and friends had good company in Helena Christensen, the Danish beauty queen and bonafide supermodel. Her fashion credentials run much deeper, as she co-founded Nylon magazine and is its first (and only) creative director. An accomplished photographer, she's had exhibitions in galleries from The Netherlands to China. But her style? To die for, just ask Zac Posen. The woman takes risks, and it pays off. She bridges the gap between red-carpet classic and indie princess. Her looks are always daring, yet demure. She mixes funky with traditional in colors, patterns, and a deep love of sequins. Check out my slideshow for tips on how to Helena Christensen-ize your wardrobe! Photo credit: PR Photos

Tags : zac posen , victorias secret , victoria's secret angel , victoria's secret , alice and olivia

Elle's Fall A to Zee Trends: Knee-Length Dresses

Greta on Oct 10, 2008 12:18 PM PDT

Ring in autumn with classy and chic knee-length dresses. These LBD's may have some added length, but they have definitely not lost any of their classy or sexy appeal. Rich fabrics, dark and decadent metallics, stunning embroidery, and even a few one-shoulder styles take these dresses from everyday to extraordinary. And while the elegance of these dresses suggest that they're made for night, it doesn't mean that they can't be dressed down for daytime looks as well. Afterall, black looks chic in virtually all settings and knee-length skirts are practical for work. So this fall, invest in a little black dress that goes the extra-length, knee-length that is! Check out Elle's A to Zee Trends to see Joe Zee's picks, and click on our SLIDESHOW to see some sophisticated examples of this trend, straight from the Hive.

Tags : tracy reese , smashing darling , lbd , knee length , alice and olivia

Sexy Style: Sweater Dresses Make Fall Our Favorite Season!

Amelia Parry on Aug 27, 2008 10:26 AM PDT

For the last couple years, the dress has been taking each season by storm. And Fall 2008 is no different. Designers are featuring the sweater dress in a myriad of incantations, making it a staple piece that will last through winter. Patterns, whether houndstooth, floral, or geometric are also hot this fall. And look for flourishes like hoodies and drop waists that update classic shapes. Here are 10 dresses that will actually make you excited about the weather getting cooler! Click on the SLIDESHOW to shop them all!

Tags : wrap dress , wool dress , victoria's secret , velvet leaf , alice and olivia