You might remember last year I built a formal capsule, since DH and I go to so many formal events over the winter. It worked beautifully and this holiday season I did not have to buy a thing -- I had something to wear for every occasion and felt pulled together.

We have one last event to attend in February. I have options in my closet but I was out shopping with DD#2 who's home on break from college. We were at TJMaxx and I found this awesome dress to add to my capsule...

The dress is Tart brand, if you are familiar with it. Attached is the closest photo I could find online, but it's not quite the same as my new acquisition:

1. It isn't a petite, for one thing, so the hemline goes elegantly to the knee on me rather than above it. The dress skims nicely all over, not too loose, not too fitted.

2. The lining is shorter than the lace overlay which hangs about an inch longer for interest.

3. The bell sleeves are way too long for me but I'm having them shortened -- this should not affect the bell shape. I will keep them on the long side, to thumb knuckle length.

4. The lace overlay is dark charcoal metallic, not black. So it has a subtle all over shimmer to it. LOVE!

THE QUANDARY -- how to accessorize???

1. Clutch: I have a ton of clutches but not sure they will go with this dress? Would like suggestions here, if I was to add yet another clutch, what would you recommend?

2. Jewelry: I'm leaning towards keeping in simple and wearing no jewelry at all, as the dress with it's lace + sparkle seems to be enough bling?

3. Footwear/hose: I'm likely just going to wear my trusty black suede tall boots with this (heeled, pointy toed, dressy), for completely practical matters. In February and at this venue it's FREEZING. I'll want socks over my hose and under the boots. I know this from long experience with this event. I think they'll look fine as the dress shape has a somewhat mod feel to it. But, what hose? Nudes? Black sheers? Other?

4. Coat: will be my black Burberry trench.

Suggestions???

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