Black Tie Affair

My favorite type of formal wear has always been a simple black dress.

Nothing says quiet elegance like a black dress.

This is what I would wear as a spectator at an evening dance exhibition.  I love the simplicity and elegance of the classic pearl jewelry.  Pearl has luster rather than shine and sparkle which suits the graceful, clean lines of this dress.

I chose to pair two of the same necklace to fill in the neckline; I would adjust one slightly longer so that it appears to be one very full necklace.

Closed toe T-strap shoes are simple, beautiful and more comfortable than strappy, sandal heels.    I love the look of wide, matching pearl cuff bracelets for each arm.  Because the dress and accessories are so simple, I would carry a purse with unique feature, like this ladylike bow clutch.

I would feel like a million bucks in this evening wear........I'm ready for the next big event!

Black Tie Affair by lisaanna featuring a south sea pearl necklace

Tonight's Dance Party Grand Opening; Inspiration

Tonight is the Grand Opening of the new studio of my ballroom teacher, Marcel.  Marcel has worked as an independent instructor for many years, working out of his home or renting space by the hour at other studios.  Marcel is the best ballroom teacher in Northwest Indiana.  He is highly esteemed by many top professional ballroom dancers and coaches.  He has a reputation for being very strict about technique.  It's true, he is.  And it has paid off for me.

Marcel is also known for not compromising his standards and teaching in a manner that is true to good, solid dance technique.  He has worked for chain studios in the past and it was just not a good fit for him.  Although he has to earn a living, he has never been just about the money.  He has a passion for dance and teaching and for helping his students achieve that "A-ha" moment where the body and brain absorb the lesson and beautiful movement is accomplished.

I am so happy for him.  If there is any teacher that deserves this, it is him.  I've been dancing with Marcel for 2 years of the 5 years I've been dancing.  I know enough to recognize a gem, and he is the Hope Diamond of dance instruction in this area.  This dress is the exact same color and very similar style to a dress that I will be wearing to the dance party tonight.  I wanted to wear a bright, fresh, summery color.  I wanted to wear something that was already in my closet.  Although the dress in the picture is not my dress, it is very close match.  The jewelry is similar to some that I own.  I haven't decided which way to style it yet.  I'm leaning toward the silver accessories, but my dance shoes are gold.

I will be sure to take pictures of my dress and of the party tonight.  I'm excited! Now it's time to get ready!

Hope everyone is enjoying the weekend!

Tonight's Dance Studio Grand Opening; Inspiration by lisaanna featuring white gold jewelry

Black and Ivory; Black Base

I've posted two wardrobes that feature black and ivory.  I can't tell you how much I love this combination.  I could switch my entire wardrobe to black and ivory and be satisfied.
This wardrobe post features a black base and the other an ivory base.  Each piece was selected because of the curve friendly cut.  Everything nips in at the waist to define an hourglass shape and minimize any unfriendly bits in the middle.  I've introduced a touch of gold in this wardrobe to dress it up bit for evenings, however, every piece except for the shoes and evening dress are work/daytime friendly too.  I would rotate in the shoes from the ivory based wardrobe to dress things down a bit.

Black and Ivory; Black Base by lisaanna featuring flare pants