Haute Deal: A Designer Bustier Zipper Dress For A Fifth Of The Cost!
by Alex Gambardella
Dec 3, 2009 8:25 AM PST
As an obsessive bargain shopper (I rarely go a week without at least stepping foot into a Forever 21), I've developed a pretty keen eye for spotting designer look-alikes for less, not only at super-cheap stores that are known for popping out runway replicas, but on the racks of mid-range contemporary stores like Bebe too! For example, this Knit Bustier Full Zip Dress at Bebe touts a reasonable $89 price tag, but in comparison to its designer twinzie, this Lisa Marie Fernandez "Leigh" Dress ($425), it's a total steal! True, LMF's is a little more structurally body-con with its neoprene fabric, but quite frankly I think Bebe's is more flattering with its banded detail and breathable fabric (not to mention more forgiving after a batch of holiday cookies)!
Top 10 Fabulous Bustier Dresses That Mix Structure With Sexiness
by Alex Gambardella
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!
