Gold can be tacky, and just plain wacky. This lovely little frock is neither; perfectly subdued metallic shine with cream-colored mesh overlay at shoulders and neckline. The chocolate brown ribbon trim across the chest helps with shoe and handbag decisions (chocolate, please). This is by Signette and is BRAND NEW with the original tags. Size 4. Originally $364.00. Only $92.00 at FRANCIE'S. (PS - this is one of many brand new boutique items that arrived just in time for New Year's 2011... hurry over!)
Francie's Favorite Finds
Shimmer & Shine
Da Bomb for Prom
I can't help it... this time of year I get nostalgic for my late-80's prom dresses. I adore this all-over lace number that harkens back to the 50's via the 80's. Strapless with the slightest hint of sweetheart shaping at the neckline, it is completely untraditional in a black lace of large tropical-esque flowers. Why not be the belle of the ball with something a bit on the mysterious and edgy side? Pair it with some delightfully delicate baubles, and you'll have everyone intrigued.
Elvis Paisley
Actually, we should call this Eliot Paisley, but Elvis Paisley was more catchy. This 100% cotton dress is by "eliot". We love the blue/grey/brown/coral color scheme and the vintage-esque paisley print. The dress is fully lined in cobalt blue cotton. Two hidden side pockets make this the perfect romp around town summer dress. We think it looks great with this hip-slung belt, but cinched at the waist with a skinny belt would be just as cute. It's a size 4.
Suits Me
The ice blue color, the topstitching and the victorian-era print make this not your average suit. We love that it's a pencil skirt (super flattering) and the expert tailoring of the jacket makes this suit so "smart" (as my Grandma, Francie, would say). These could definitely be worn as separates, which makes it the ideal suit. Consider replacing the buttons with a smaller vintage style? This is brand new with tags. Jacket is a size XS, skirt is a size 4. From BCBG.
Not Your Dad's Khakis
We never thought we'd see a khaki piece that is actually delicate and feminine. Admit it - when you think "khaki" you think wrinkle-free chinos and there's nothing glamorous about that! French designer Renato Nucci turns our world upside down with this khaki cotton dress embellished with beaded red silk flowers (note the rough raw edges on the silk flowers, simultaneously delicate and destructed). The asymmetrical hemline is another favorite detail. Beware, though, this dress is completely backless; the spaghetti straps attach to a drawstring waist that sits about mid-back (visit our Facebook page for a photo of the back of the dress). It's a French size 36, or US size 6, but it runs small so fits a size 2-4.
Pretty in Pleats
We knew we were a sucker for exposed zippers, but the mini-pleats on this skirt are just about as incredible. The knit fabric makes this ideal for throwing (literally) into a suitcase. The v-neck is super flattering (not to mention the v-back). The ruching is a delicate touch to balance out the punk-rockness of the exposed zipper. It's from Bailey44 (find it at Bloomingdale's and Anthropologie) and is a size S.
Be My Valetine
We couldn't resist this new arrival - a perfectly red silk satin evening dress from Chetta B Evening. The front is classic, but the back is where it's at. The deep V and oversized bow are simply too adorable/flirty to not LOVE. And, this week, it's all about LOVE... (This dress is new with tags from Off Saks; it's a size 2, but fits more like a size 4/6.)
Professor Plum
...in the boutique, with the lace (anyone else love the game Clue?)... Banana Republic nailed it with this lace and knit dress that can go from the office to happy hour to a wedding to a shower to a brunch - OK, I'll stop. It's just the most perfect combination of fashion and function. It's a true-to-size 6, and it slips on and zips up with a hidden side zip. This is the not-so-basic basic that you'll wear over and over and always look and feel fabulous.
For Richard, or for Poorer
Who doesn't need a couture gown hanging in their closet? Don't get caught with nothing to wear on the red carpet! Grab this Richard Tyler Couture silk gown in an iridescent blush color and timeless chevron stripes. The workmanship on this gown is meticulous. The side zip is completely invisible, and the gown's lining is as exceptional as the exterior. The deep V in front is even deeper in the back for the second glances... the split straps make it just a little mysterious and interesting. It's a size 4 and it's never been worn.
Graceful, Laceful
Oooooh! Where can we wear this exquisite strapless number from Badgley Mischka?! Party, please! This is a BRAND NEW toffee-colored lace dress with a chocolate brown satin empire waist and chocolate 3-D ribbon trim (the sheer ribbon trim actually creates mini rosettes along the neckline and skirt's hemline). It's a true size 4, and the fit is so flattering. There is a corset sewn into the dress that closes in back with a line of eyehooks to be sure this dress sits perfectly. The hang tag has a retail price of $895.00, but it's priced at FRANCIE'S for $128.00!
