"Ode to...The Little Nude Dress"

“Ode to...The Little Nude Dress”

Think of that timeless piece in your closet.  The item that if you keep it another fifty years, your children and grandchildren will embrace it as if it’s the missing element they have been fiercely pursuing to complete their wardrobe.  That piece is your Little Black Dress.  Well, I believe there is one more staple a woman must have...the Little Nude Dress!!

This must-have fashion statement is not at all a new trend.  You may remember “The Naked Dress” on the first season of “Sex and The City”.  Even Mr. Big couldn't resist its lure.  There are so many options of nudes to consider.  From the taupe shade of beige to a beautiful blush ballet pink, the naked rainbow is gorgeous from top to bottom. Your skin tone will play a pivotal part in picking the perfect au naturel shade.  I assure you, you will find the perfect hue on the buff color wheel to compliment your complexion.

My adoration for the little nude dress began when I bought my daughter her first pair of ballet slippers.  I was never a woman to wear the color beige; black was more my forte.  When I saw those shoes, I fell in love with the elegance they infused.  The color, or lack thereof, displays such a natural grace and beauty.  I know that nothing can replace the little black dress in your closet.  However, the little nude dress stands on its own for a conservative day at work, an exquisite night out or a stylish Sunday brunch.

At the high end of the price point, you can find stunning new and vintage pieces from the likes of Christian Dior and Chanel.  Michael Kors, Calvin Klein and Donna Karan present a distinctive, modern concept while adding a minimalist twist to the old classics with their own American stamp.

Dress by BCBG Max Azria

From the true nude of the Victoria Beckham 2010 Ready-To-Wear Collection to the sweet blush of a Zac Posen surreal design, today’s designers have a staggering range of gorgeous to seamlessly take you from day to night.  Transform your look by adding a seductive smokey eye, nude gloss and a fetching piece of statement jewelry or apply an alluring red lip, a touch of mascara and a gorgeous pair of Christian Louboutin pumps.  Either look, you’ll be entrancing in the nude.

If you’re looking to stay on trend and keep your pocket book in check, H&M has a wonderful selection.  Their 2013-14 Paris Show Collection, to be specific, has some phenomenal options coming out soon.

The adorable color block mini and knee-length sheath both offer high fashion, trend-setting moments for you to take from summer through fall.  Stunning dresses at stunning prices!

Venture back to the oh so appealing 1950’s.  In the decade of tulle and skin tight pencil skirts, you’re sure to find some compelling options, whatever your mood may be.  The 1960’s offered up some eye-catching micro-mini sheath dresses.  Revamp any era with a sensational pair of ankle boots or update your look just by adding a novelty vintage item to your brand new piece.

Another amazing option if you don’t want to completely veer away from the LBD, is the black illusion dress.  If you find the right beige slip, your subtle naked becomes a sultry nude, or does it?...That’s what illusion is about after all!

Speaking of the right slip, gorgeous Ready-To-Wear lingerie like NOE Undergarments have a captivating array of slips and underwear sets that make it hard not to be tempted to forget the dress all together, but you and your significant other will have something to look forward to later!  Wink-Wink

The Alfie slip from NOE leaves me in awe.  It can be worn with the perfect canvas out and about or behind closed doors, however you see fit, and it will leave other’s enamored!

Photos courtesy of NOE Undergarments

Enjoy yourself with what used to be referred to as boring beige and has now become the new black.  Well...maybe not the new black, but a lovely alternative!!


Alicia Stirling-Julian 
www.stirlingjulian.com