I have a black tie holiday party to attend next month with my husband. The last time I had to wear a formal gown was my wedding and my choice was pretty much the first one I tried on. I thought I had made my decision for this event in October. But finding shoes and accessories have proved much harder than I anticipated. So of course I went shopping for other options and found two more dresses.

#1-3-original choice from Anthropologie. Color is kind of a matte rose-gold color (hence the difficulty in finding just the right accessories). Off shoulder does somewhat limit movement but it is very comfortable and I have the perfect strapless bra. Needs hemming- potentially expensive and long lead time with my tailor.

#4-6-a very shiny gold with metal bits, small scoop back (can wear normal bra). I also have this coming in a smaller size just to compare. Also thought of this in black (easy to accessorize). Very popular dress at Nordstrom, good possibility someone else may be wearing this, very comfortable, free alterations).

#7-10- wild card dress found at Nordstrom Rack. Needs some minor altering (hemming, button closure at neck repair) but can be done with Nordstrom (free). Cut out back requires finding the right low back bra but not too concerned with this fact.

Please, brutal honesty and suggestions welcomed!