Have Dress, Will Party - what to wear to a celebration - Brief Article

O: The Oprah Magazine, Dec, 2001

Little and black still goes anywhere, but this year you can also find an evening dress of a different color.

Q I love to dress up during the holidays, but I'm tired of the same old little black number. How about something totally festive in a few new colors?

Kathryn

Huntsville

Alabama

A Your bright idea is so right--and surprisingly practical, too. A red or fuchsia dress is actually quite a gift when you're in a rush: Wearing color (definitely mood-elevating) makes it easier to shift into party mode. And the more brilliant the shade, the less you need a million accessories. Just carry an imaginative bag (maybe beaded or floral) and slip on pretty shoes (in black velvet or satin--they'll go with anything--or an inexpensive pair that matches your dress). Don't knock the little black dress, though--our snazzy double-V-neck giveaway (below) comes in a satiny fabric with a self-belt.

A demure pleated and darted Jackie O-style dress turns absolutely luscious when it's done in fuchsia satin. The bow calls attention to your waist. Dress, $165, Trio New York. Clutch, Judith Jack. Shoes, Isaac by Isaac Mizrahi.

This jewel of a dress in garnet satin is especially great if you happen to have done a lot of biceps curls lately. Dress, $70, the Limited. Beaded bag, Franchi. Shoes, Sam & Libby.

It's just a simple dress--then again, it's red, with starry pins on the one bold shoulder. Perfect for a trim-the-tree party; works well with mistletoe, boughs of holly. Dress, $170, Lauren by Ralph Lauren. Pins, Swarovski. Bag, Franchi. Shoes, Via Spiga.

FREE DRESSES! Get out your pearls--we're giving away SO divinely Audrey Hepburn-ish dresses from Old Navy (each retails at $28), in sizes 4 to 12.