Bethesda Actually

While out strolling in the lovely Spring weather this week, we noticed that pretty Spring cocktail dresses are on display in nearly every shop window in Montgomery County. A staple of American sportswear, the cocktail dress became popular during the Great Depression, when fashion designers marketed the look as “day-into-evening” wear that could be accessorized to suit almost any occasion. The Spring 2010 cocktail dress follows this tradition of versatility, with trendsetters like Rachel Bilson and Kate Hudson pairing theirs with boots and bomber jackets during daylight hours. From semi-formal to streetwear-able, Essie says that Spring is the season to celebrate the adaptability of the cocktail dress! This week, we have showcased this look for five springtime events:

1. Cherry Blossom Festival (NCBF, March 27 – April 11)

Who can resist the feast of colors in blood orange reds and turquoise blues in this dress! Could there be a more appropriate way to celebrate the explosion of pinks and fuschias at the Cherry Blossom Festival?

Diane von Furstenberg – Paradis Dress – $385

Accessorize with:
For warmer weather: Pair with red espadrilles, gold bangles, and a light cardigan in cream.
For cooler climates: Pair with a knee length trench and grey patent leather flats.

2. Family Gathering (Vernal Equinox – March 20, Passover – March 29, Easter – April 4)

Sunday brunches with the family and afternoon tea with sisters become a popular event as the the temperature arrives at the perfect 64 degrees and sunny. This dress can be worn for a religious service as well as a lazy afternoon on the patios of Le Pain Quotidien.

DKNY – Garden Print Tank Dress – $295

Accessorize with:
For dressier events: Couple this dress with a cropped sports coat with gold buttons, nude round-toe pumps, and a simple long gold necklace.
For casual events: Wear with peep toe ankle boots in black and a stack of leather wraparound bracelets.

3. Charity Event (Dine For Humanity, April 9)

Spring’s philanthropic galas and charity dinners provide the perfect opportunity to shop for a cause.

Ralph Lauren – Silk Dupioni Dress – $198

Accessorize with:
Statement colors like this lucious red require minimal accessories: Wear with a bundle of layered pearls and a pair of black peep toes.

4. Bachelorette Party (All Spring long)

Wedding Season officially kicks off on May 29, which means now is the time to celebrate Bachelorettehood. Whether you’re enjoying bottle service at Lotus Lounge or throwing back with the girls at Strike Bethesda, ruffles and shine are always appropriate for a girls night out.

Haute Hippie – Sequin Tulle Cocktail Dress – $995

Accessorize with:
Dress to dance with Alexis Bittar lucite bangles, wavy beach hair, and your highest pair of metallic stillettos.

5. Gallery Hop (Bethesda Arts Walk, March 12 and April 9)

Nothing compliments good weather better than good art. This breezy, avant-garde dress would be perfect for exploring the Debi Sacks exhibit at Marin-Price.

Tibi – Calla Lilly V Neck Dress – $368

Accessorize with:
Gallery nights require optimal comfort and style: Pair this silk-screened dress with gladiator sandals and a Tory Buch’s leather world charm neclace, and finish with a cocktail-style mood ring.

Now, is it cocktail hour yet?

Ciao,

Essie

Essie Says is a weekly fashion column written by a local style savant.