black satin mermaid dress Elizabeth K GL3044 Make sure you order swatches first! KissProm Mermaid Deep V Neck

The best way to ensure you have the right size dress shoe is to go to the store and try them on in person

Now, if said dress is also linen, well, that's a huge bonus

While a long cocktail dress typically works better for formal occasions, short cocktail dresses offer a dash of diversity because of their ability to be dressed up or down depending on accessories and styling

This is my last day in the 40s so why not go out with a bang

Head designer Rene Macdonald grew up in Tanzania but moved to the UK at a young age and frequently traveled back and forth to visit family

One approach is to opt for black dress pants with a subtle texture or pattern and pair them with a pair of burnished brown brogues or loafers