How to Rock... the Panel Dress

The panel dress takes the art of illusion to a new--and fabulous--level. Gaining popularity in the last couple of years, it exaggerates curves (in the good way), while being versatile enough to be appropriate for just about any occasion. I’ve read that they can make you look up to two sizes smaller, and while that particular claim sounds a bit optimistic to me, this dress style will make you look great, as long as you know how to wear it properly.

I recently purchased this version of the panel dress by Voir.

To successfully rock the panel dress, you need to remember that the statement piece of this outfit is the dress itself. The lines of the dress are specifically designed to draw the eye and keep it moving from top to bottom, making you look taller, leaner and gorgeous. You don’t want to do anything that breaks up those lines, which means no heavy sweaters or blazers. You also don’t want to distract the eye with too much jewelry. You may have noticed my intense love of big cuffs and bracelets, but this look calls for more restraint when it comes to the accessories. Remember, you want all eyes on your dress (and how banging your curves look in it), so all of your choices should support that goal. Think thin earrings with some length to them that emphasize your neck and shoulders, along with a delicate bracelet. If you absolutely must have an added pop of color, your shoes are a good place to get it. Focus on a tall pump that will elongate your legs instead of a strappy shoe that will cut you off at the ankles. Snag a clutch on the way out the door, and you’re all set! If you want to see just how amazing this look can be when pulled off, check out Kate Winslet looking quite radiant in Stella McCartney.

Do you have a panel dress that makes your curves pop? Send a picture of how you rock this trend to thegatheredlady@gmail.com, and if we love it, we'll share it!

7 Heavenly Trends... for Spring 2013!

Despite the long winter, spring is finally in the air! Whether you hit the streets, shop online, or window shop, keep an eye out for these 7 heavenly spring trends. Hint: for the P.I.N.P.s* out there, an artful gathered lady ((might)) be able to assemble some of these looks completely out of her closet with zero hits to the budget. For others, less is more - buying one hot, trendy item and incorporating it multiple ways kills three or four looks with one piece. Bonus points for combining trends!                                 *P.I.N.P. = “Poised in a Pinch”, a more frugal fashionista

A Gathered Event: Happiness | The SS13 Collection Launch

As you know, The Gathered Lady keeps her ears to the streets and her feet in the stores to bring you hot fashion and style. We were invited to the exclusive launch event for Happiness brand's new spring collection at My Closet Italia on Melrose Ave in Los Angeles. Suffice it to say, the clothes are fabulous- colorful, edgy, youthful, with both luxury and street appeal. In short, they're cool. This Italian based clothing line can be found in retailers like Fred Segal, My Closet Italia, and Kitson. Already popular with celebrities, the brand has stores throughout select cities in Europe, Asia, the US, and Canada. Don't live in Europe or near a store? Worry not, you can order clothes on their website too. Check out the pics, stay gathered and #spreadhappiness.

 

The Gathered Fashion Spread (April 6, 2013)

Happy Saturday! We had an awesomely busy week and found many gathered fashionistas in Los Angeles and Atlanta stealing the spotlight! Check out these fab women for style inspiration. Do you and your friends have style when you go out and about? Submit your fierce pictures to thegatheredlady@gmail.com and you may make our weekly Gathered Fashion Spread! Check back tomorrow for a special Sunday Funday post! Style. You have it. We Love it. 

Poise in a Pinch: Stylish outfits for less than $100

We've all been there: An invitation to a party, date, or event, but "nothing to wear" despite a cloest full of clothes. What is a fashionista to do when you need to look amazing, but your spending cash is a little tight? Not to mention, like most gathered ladies, you probably have expensive taste. Don't worry (it causes wrinkles). The Gathered Lady is here to the rescue! Our "Poise in a Pinch" series will teach you how to look like a million bucks for less than a hundred!

Event: Red Carpet, Cocktail

Desired Outfit: Vintage black lace and sequin dress,  Strappy high heel sandals , clutch, earrings, cocktail ring

High End: Dress- Sue Wong at Saks 5th Avenue; Shoes- Guess at Macy's; Clutch- Michael Kors at Net A Porter; Earrings- Bijoux Heart at Net A Porter; Ring- Coach 

P.I.N.P Outfit: Vintage black lace and sequin dress,  Strappy high heel sandals , clutch, earrings, cocktail ring...Same look, less cash!

P.I.N.P.: Dress- American Vintage on Melrose in Los Angeles; Shoes- CrossRoads Exchange Co. in Silver Lake; Clutch- National Women's Council Thrift; Jewelry- Forever 21

P.I.N.P ITEM	HIGH END COST	P.I.N.P COST
Vintage Lace & Sequin Dress	$395	$20
Audrey Brooke Shoes	$120	$18
Minx Los Feliz Clutch	$597	$12
Art Deco Earrings	$595	$13
Art Deco Cocktail Ring	$595	$8
TOTAL	$2,302	$71

And that is how you P.I.N.P for less than $100!

(Cue music- 50 cent P.I.M.P.)

I don't know what you heard about me

but you can't get them dollars outta me

I'm gonna dress so fly you gon' see 

Cuz I'm GATHERED LADY P.I.N.P!!