We love the cream-and-nude color scheme, and the fact that the dress’s shape is forgiving has its appeal. For the bottom layer, all you want is a blank canvas so the sheer dress stands out. This simple shirtdress works, and an opaque slip dress (white, nude) would, too.
Dress: VPL silk organza dress, price on request; 212-966-2145
Dress (worn under): Jil Sander Navy white cotton dress,$375; 212-447-9200
You can skip the kooky pink underlayer seen on the runway and wear a full slip if sheerness is an issue. Also, on the runway the dress is shapeless, so use the self-belt to create a waist.
Dress: Issey Miyake linen and cotton dress,$2,045; 212-226-0100
Yowza! The runway look is an eyeful and overkill for every day, but tone down the top, and it’s office appropriate. With such a bold top, keep the bottom half simple. The soft gray hue of these pants is grounding.
The shape is so mod, and the color looks new—styled right, you’ll wear it day or night. How to wear something with holes? Underpinnings are a must, and a bold hue is fun and unexpected. Bonus: This swimsuit/bodysuit doubles as shape wear.
Dress: cynthia rowley viscoseand rayon blend dress,$385; cynthiarowley.com
Swimsuit: Eres Paris spandex knit swimsuit,$280; nancymeyer.com
Either a shoulder-strap or top-handle style will work, as long as it’s sleek (though for comfort, we vote for a bag that tucks under the arm). With such a strong look, keep each element fierce—this is no place for delicate anything.
Purse: Michael Kors leather purse,$495; 866-709-5677 for stores
Bangles: Alexis Bittar metal bangles,$215 each; alexisbittar.com