I like the dress and think that it fits nicely. I do think that black is a bit harsh with your coloring. I think that the brown does not show up well in the picture. I would love to see you in a rich earth tone. Olive green, brown, shiny taupe, rust- actually all of my colors!
Believe me, I know how hard that is to find with the sea of purple, grey and black out there. If you did any color other than black, your black accessories would work better. I do think you could help the dress with a dramatic necklace. It is a flattering cut for you so I would not return it in case you do not find something else. I wonder what others think.

Oh, first party wear post! I think it looks great, and would definitely work for the occasion. I understand your reasoning about having to wear it only once. My only other thought would be trying to find something that you could dress down and get more use out of it that way, but it could be hard, depending on how formal the party is.
Another thought - maybe you could try brighter or more textured shoes? Perhaps you could get more wear out of them than a new dress? Sorry I am not being very helpful here...

The dress looks good on you and a necklace is a good idea. I'd swap out the purse for a clutch, maybe silver or red or brown?
With a jacket or trench and different accessories, could it be a Christmas church dress or worn to a holiday luncheon?

Greenglove-I would much rather find a colored dress, but between my budget, the lack of options in the stores, and the shopping desolate area that I live in; that's not likely to happen. I thought the brown under the black looked a little better than straight black but it didn't show up very well in the photo.

Marianne- my other thought about this event was to wear these shoes with my nice botocut jeans, and a fancy top. I haven't been able to find a top, though. I'm not sure that's quite appropriate for "cocktail attire", but then some of the people dress pretty casually, anyway.

Joy-A clutch would be better, but I don't have one and was hoping not to have to buy one. This is really the only time a year when I dress up this much, so it's a one wearing outfit. I was kind of thinking that with black, if we have a funeral at least I will have something.That's kind of morbid thinking, though. :P

I want to hear Angie's thoughts.

I have been shopping with clients for party wear all week and it’s been such fun :0)

Khris, I have to say that this is not your usual fabulous style. You’ve spoilt us and now we want more! The dress is okay, but not stellar. I vote for another outfit :0(

I really like this dress you already own Khris
http://www.flickr.com/photos/c.....otostream/

I could see it working with a black cami, black micro fishnets, your existing black bag and shoes and a statement necklace. What do you think?

OK, the dress is going back. We actually decided not to go this year- I don't need the stress of trying to find a dress, and we surely don't need to spend the money.