velvet gowns & formal dresses Sherri Hill Couture Burgundy Long Sleeve Pageant Gown 44191 pleated cups shape the bust while hidden boning holds everything tight Velvet Evening Gown With Draped

Accessories Once you select high-quality shoes, its time to turn your attention to accessories

What to avoid: Very long pendant necklaces Extremely delicate chains (get lost against the neckline) Strapless and Off-Shoulder Dresses Best jewelry choices: Statement necklaces or chandelier earrings (not both) Chokers or collar necklaces Bold cuffs or bracelets If wearing statement necklace, skip earrings or wear studs Why it works: Strapless necklines expose the full neck, shoulders, and collarbone, creating the perfect canvas for dramatic jewelry

Ruched waist + thigh-high Leg Split

In my book, nothing beats a homemade blue cheese dressing because it's free of all sorts of additives and preservatives that a store-bought version so often contains