Perfect Fall Party Looks, Part 1

Last minute invite distress? These no-fail party looks will make getting dressed a pleasure this season.

by Daisy Lewellyn

Every girl should have a go-to cocktail dress in her closet, there is absolutely nothing easier or more chic. Whether you are attending a swanky soiree or a fun dinner party with your closest friends, a cocktail dress is a surefire way to look picture party perfect. In addition to looking fabulous, a thoughtful token of appreciation for the host is always a nice way to score style brownie points. I may sometimes arriving fashionably late, but I never arrive unfashionably empty handed.

Check out these chic fall party looks to suit any occasion and personality:

Uptown Chic

Dinner parties are always a great way to get together for good conversation and yummy bites. So why not bring a wonderful conversation piece...your jewel toned silk dress! This JCrew fuchsia number will turn heads and look great in photographs. Fun easy ladylike accessories let your dress take center stage. This look will bring you timeless fashion memories.

1. Solid rollneck silk dress, $148 at jcrew.com. Solid jewel tones are one of my favorite trends! It's practically impossible to look bad in this piece.

2. Bow Stud Gold earrings, $26 at rachelleigh.com. Bows are big this season, even when they arrive in a small package like these sweet dainty earrings.

3. Gerard Yosca Women's Beaded Cuff, $215 at bloomingdales.com. This cuff brings an estate jewelry feel to the look. Everyone will think it was a part of your lavish inheritance.

4. Steve Madden Women's Aileenn T-Strap Sandal, $99.95 at endless.com. Who knew taupe could be so sexy! Looks like Steve Madden did.

5. Tory Burch Ribbed Resin Clutch, $295 at nordstrom.com. Color contrasting is really major this fall. A pop of cobalt blue paired with the fuchsia is an amazing pairing.

6. Hue Nude Fishnet Tights (not shown), $12.50 at bloomingdales.com. Nothing sexier than an innocent nude fishnet. The nubby texture gives an illusion of skin and sex appeal.

Hostess Gift:
Double Elephants Green Tray, $100 at iomoi.com
This party tray will serve up style and a cool cup of class.

Metallic Moments

A knockout metallic mini dress is the perfect way to turn heads, heads and more heads. The puff sleeves and luxe fabrication will leave a fashionable taste in your mouth. In order to look polished and not overdone, minimal accessories are key, as well as a dark opaque leg.

1. Christian V. Siriano gold silk 'Red Carpet' shift dress, $325 at bluefly.com. This Project Runway winner truly allowed his talent to shine through this celeb worthy dream of a dress.

2. Betsey Johnson Cubic Zirconia Earrings, $35 at macys.com. You can never go wrong with a solid stud. Timeless and they go with everything.

3. Snake Ring, $6 at wetseal.com. You can't beat 6 bucks for fun trendy jewelry. The ring channels Cleopatra meets Nicole Richie.

4. Report Newbury shoes, $189.95 at zappos.com. This patent platform is a perfect surprise.

5. Santi FH2713X Clutch, $96.25 at endless.com.

6. Spanx Reversible Tight-End Tights (not shown), $34 at barenecessities.com. This reversible tight offers a dual dish. Wear your opaque black when you are feeling mysteriously sexy and opt for the navy when you are feeling a bit more playful.

Hostess Gift:
Diptyque Red Tubereuse Candle, $68 at eluxury.com. Candles are one of my favorite gifts to give & receive!

want more? check out part 2 of our series