Hello everyone, I hope you are enjoying the long weekend, I can’t believe it is September already!
The focus of this post is a gorgeous evening gown by IGIGI. A while ago I was doing my usual perusal of the website to see what was new and when I came across this beauty, my mouth literally dropped to the floor. I have worn many formal dresses over the years as I have a lot of functions for work to attend and our annual celebration for those that write their CPA, CA exams is black tie so it takes a lot to get my attention.
I was immediately drawn to the details of this dress – the beautiful combination of a pale blush colour and metallic, the detail in the skirt, the fact that it was carried up to the top of the dress in the shoulders and across the back, the flattering neckline and the waist defining accent of metallic. So of course after all of this, you know that I had to have it.
To me this dress reminds me of the old Hollywood glamour of the 20’s to 50’s. Sometimes, I often think I was meant to be born in that era simply because I love a good excuse to get all dressed up. In that era it was common to do so. I find that in the modern era, people hear the words “black tie” and cringe.
Now don’t get me wrong, I get that times have changed but sometimes it’s fun to imagine what it would have been like – going to an old fashioned supper club with live music, drinks and dancing where every one dressed their best and nothing was considered over the top.
That imagery was the inspiration for how I styled this look. It is meant to be editorial in nature – completely glamorous, over the top and full of sparkle. With a dress like this the attention is sure to be all on you anyways so I went for the full effect.
The dress fits like a glove. I am wearing a size 28. This dress comes in sizes 12 to 28 and not split sizes due to the more tailored fit and fabric compared to other IGIGI dresses. IGIGI sizes do tend to run on the large size but this dress is definitely more a true to fit style. The pictures on the website do not honestly give this dress the justice it deserves.
When it arrived in the mail and I took it out of the box I was astonished by the gorgeous bead work on the skirt and the quality. This is definitely an investment piece due to the price point but if you have a very special occasion – perhaps Mother of the Bride/Groom, a significant anniversary celebration, vow renewal, or true black tie gala then this is such a special piece. And if you wanted to be a non-traditional bride, I think this would be a stunning option.
My accessories for this look include this amazing statement necklace of pearls from Lane Bryant. I came across this piece months ago and although I didn’t have anything particular at the time that I thought I would wear it with, I knew I had to have it. I was glad I did, it was the perfect compliment to the metallic in the dress.
The pearl bracelet is also from Lane Bryant and is a coordinate to the necklace. I then chose some simple but sparkly silver earrings from Penningtons.
Now being a girl that loves her sparkle I also chose to add two of my favourite bracelets from my personal collection. The floral burst is something I purchased over 10 years ago and has served me well with several different outfits. I love this piece because it has such a sparkle and shimmer and when the light hits it, it is simply stunning.
The crystal bracelet is one that I actually found on Etsy that I have had for several years. I have difficulty in finding bracelets that fit my wrist so I decided to search Etsy and found someone who makes the bracelets by hand and was willing to customize the length to fit my wrist. If you search under bridal jewelry, you will find amazing options. And this is what I love about Etsy, many of the artisans will make customizations to pieces, all you have to do is ask.
Now I am obsessed with clutches. I love finding that unique piece that to me makes an outfit. This dress needed the right one and after searching high and low I found this beautiful stunner at a local store in Burlington called A Passion for Living.
They carry an amazing selection of high quality accessories for women as well as gorgeous home décor pieces. Walking into the store is such a pleasure for me – there are so many beautiful things to explore and try on. This clutch is hand beaded with the most beautiful pattern of pearls and sequins. The extra special touch is the bow handle. If you are in the GTA, I highly recommend taking the time to check this store out, you won’t be disappointed.
I knew that to achieve the look I was going for, that a head piece of some sort was in order. Now many of my friends and family would say that I am stubborn and if I want something I will find it. So after searching 40,000 items on Etsy, I finally decided on this beautiful custom piece from the shop BrightStarrBoutique all the way from California. At only $30 US, this is gorgeous beyond words. I was very impressed with the customer service and I needed a rush ship and it got here on time.
So with this, a simple nude heel, my hair up to show off the dress and a dark lip I felt I had brought my vision to life.
I shot this look in a very public location and the comments on I received on how stunning this dress was were overwhelming. I have a black tie gala coming up in October and I can’t wait to wear it.
IGIGI is currently having a 20% sale for labour day – you should check it out!
So who’s ready to take me for a spin on the dance floor?
A special thank you to Greg for his amazing photography. You captured my vision so beautifully!
Dress by IGIGI | Necklace by LANE BRYANT (similar) | Alternative necklace option 1 | Alternative necklace option 2 | Pearl Bracelet by LANE BRYANT (similar) | Pearl bracelet alternative option | Rhinestone bracelet (similar) | Clutch by A PASSION FOR LIVING (similar) | Alternative clutch option | Custom Head Piece by BRIGHTSTARRBOUTIQUE |
