Best Cocktail Dresses for Spring 2012
Cocktail dresses are running wild this spring with vibrant yellows, abstract prints, color blocking and soft pastels striding down the runways. Angular, straight pieces mingle with flowing drop waists and elegant, knee-length skirts with retro inspiration. The best cocktail dresses for Spring 2012 combine a few of the choicest trends into stunning, unforgettable ensembles.
Naeem Khan Beaded Sheath Dress
A yellow cocktail dress is a must for this spring season. If money is no object, pick up this gorgeous yellow number with metallic beading. A high, jeweled neckline and three quarter sleeves lend an elegant sophistication to this cocktail dress. The light, loose shift fit flows around the knees, and white highlights make the pastel yellows and beading stand out beautifully. For something a bit more abstract with a distinctive shape, check out Reed Krakoff’s Layered Silk Dress in creamy yellow.
Jason Wu Two-Toned Cascade Dress
Peplum took the runways by storm this season, as did the high-low hemlines, and this dress combines both with chic color blocking and the coveted pink hue. Not for the wallflower, this dress features a textured, ivory top over a pink peplum skirt with a cascading back. The top has no sleeves and a high neckline while the skirt hits at the knee. The cascading back creates the illusion of a high-low hemline. Stride into a party with this dress confident in the knowledge that all eyes are on you.
BCBGMAXAZRIA Color Block Pleated Dress
Perfect for the retro lover, this dress has a combination of matte blue and green horizontal panels accented by sheer chiffon on the top and bottom. A black waistband sets off the colors and cinches the waist. The billowing, pleated fabric flows to just below the knees and the full skirt spins out beautifully. For something simpler that maintains the color blocking theme, check out Jessica Simpson’s Color Block Chiffon Sleeveless Dress. The blues and pinks are bright, vibrant and energetic.
Donna Karen Tribal-Inspired Dress
Also fashionable this spring are earthy tribal patterns. Chunky beading, amber hues and textured accents create a sensual, grounded vibe for the tribal inspired pieces. This stunning tubular dress fits like a glove against the body and has exquisite stitching and detail on the front. The sweetheart camisole neckline and wide sleeves create balance for the intricate stitching. This dress speaks for itself, so keep accessories and shoes to a minimum.
Christopher Kane Floral Shift Dress
This dress features shimmering brocade in the basic shift style, but updates it with a fold down the middle and along the high neckline. It is sleeveless and hits just above the knee. If you like this style, check out Kane’s Paneled Floral Print Dress that hits even higher on the legs with a sky high slit, empire waist and elegantly folded panels on the top. For something a bit more demure in the shift style, go for Vera Wang’s Abstract Print Sheath Dress with top and bottom panels in royal cobalt blue.
