Reformed Fashion Disaster Needs Help

[sabrina_144]

I found greekchat totally by accident, while scouring the web for discount Prada bags. This site is so interesting and entertaining! I've really enjoyed reading the threads related to fashion and beauty (e.g., the "sorority girl necessities" topic).
True story: Back in 1996, I went through Fall rush at UF. I was still in my awkward age, very shy, came from a poor family, and didn't know jack about how to dress or act. Case in point: on the second day, I wore a hideous denim-and-floral sundress that didn't quite cover my bra. I also defied my naturally curly hair by trying to have bangs,wore foundation a shade too dark, and suffered from a lack of sleep because my abusive-psycho ex had traveled to Gainesville to stalk me. Needless to say, I was cut very heavily and ended up dropping out of rush altogether. At the time, I took the rejection really hard because I thought it meant I wasn't pretty or interesting. However, I have long since moved on from that disappointment and am now a very successful person with no bangs and a much-improved sense of style.
Anyway, if you're still reading this, I think a lot of the people on these boards have GREAT fashion sense, so I am soliciting your advice. I am on a quest for the PERFECT, dress-it-up-or-down little black dress. I am a size 6 with no major figure flaws, and I need something conservative enough for a business affair but still sexy. I know black dresses are everywhere, but I am looking for, like, the Holy Grail of LBD's and would prefer not to break the bank. Any ideas would be appreciated! --XoX Sabrina

[pink27]

I'm sad to hear about your awful rushing experience at UF. I , myself went through rush at FSU in 1998. I had a blast and am so greatful for my greek connections! I wish you could have had a similar experience! ! In regards to your need for a little black dress, I have a few suggestions. Pick a dress that is simple and classic, but emphasizes your very best asset (what ever that may be). For example: great arms, sleevless; great shoulders, strapless; great legs, show some thigh. You get the idea. As long as you only play up ONE feature, you can always accessorize more conservative or more sexy! Try to avoid dresses that can be easily "dated" to a specific season or year. That way, you'll get more use out of the dress. For a quality little back dress you can pay anywhere from about $65 on up. I would recommend the investment, because (in the long run) it will be worthwhile in the long run. Check out stores like Express and The Limited. Don't be afraid to catalog shop. You can always return your purchase at very little expense and the sales are often much better (for example: Victoria's secret, J Crew, etc). But above all, get a dress that you like, that's the most important! Good Luck !

[sunnygirl]

I have to say that Tessuto is my favorite little black dressmaker. I paid around a hundred or so for mine, but you figure, it is a pretty good investment because you can wear it anywhere. I bought mine at Lord and Taylor, but you can probably find it at any decent store.

[amycat412]

Sabrina-
I'd advise investing in this dress rather than hitting a store like Express, etc. The right LBD will last you forever. But getting it at Express, etc--will look like an of the moment dress and the best LBD is classic. I have ones that are 5 years old and ones that are 1 year old and they are all timeless and classic, whereas my Express one, I wore it for a season and got rid of it, it was too trendy and not well made.

My favorite dressmaker is Laundry/Shelli Segal and I was in Bloomingdale's yesterday and saw at least 3 great LBDs by her. Ann Taylor is also good--I have 2 of hers, too. Tessuto is good too, as Sunny mentioned. You should be able to find Laundry and Tessuto in major dept stores like Bloomingdale's, Macy's etc.

Betsy Johnston has some cute dresses out right now too.

Good Luck!
Amy