Whether it’s a Beverly Hills party, a black tie wedding or a formal charitable fundraiser, we all want that expensive red carpet look when we go to a fancy event. If you’re like me, you want to look a million bucks without spending a lot. It is always a struggle to justify spending much on formal event attire that will be worn once in most instances. So I don’t. I find ways to look glam without spending a fortune on a one and done outfit.
This past weekend Rick and I were invited to attend a black tie party at the Beverly Hills Hotel in Beverly Hills. If there was ever a time to look like a million bucks, this was it! For the event I was able to put together a red carpet designer look for under $150! Here is the red carpet look for less.
The Dress
Let’s start with the dress. It’s a Calvin Klein Glitter Ruched Front Slit gown. The color is Aubergine. Retails for $200. Fully lined and form fitting. Thigh high slit was just noticeable enough for the red carpet glamour I was looking for.
Getting to the good stuff. This dress was the most comfortable dress I have ever worn. Material is stretchy and forgiving (material is acetate, polyester and spandex). It is machine washable! No added cost for the dry cleaner (what is that I hear? It’s me saving money!) Also, it does not wrinkle AT ALL. It was stuffed in my suitcase for 3 days and I slipped it on 5 minutes before walking out the door! What formal dress does that?! This one!
Bought this dress NWT (new with tags) on eBay for $70! The material is stretchy so no alterations necessary. A tad long but not worth hemming.
The Accessories
Carried a Diane von Furstenberg 440 Envelope Shimmer EMB Lizard clutch. The color is listed as Sand Gold. It retails for $248. Purchased the clutch NWT from eBay for only $50! When shopping designer on eBay purchase from eBay Authenticate. The purse has the slightest shimmer to it which complemented the dress nicely. Also, this clutch can easily be worn dressed down with jeans. It being a neutral color makes it very versatile. Clutch has an outside side pocket and was pretty roomy on the inside. Had plenty of room for phone, lipstick, compact and money.
The earrings and bracelet were purchased from TJ Maxx for $15. each. Earrings and bracelet are gold plated and light weight. Unfortunately, I did not pay attention to the brand. They were found on a floating kiosk next to the jewelry counter. They were sold separately. Bracelet and earrings were sold separately. Will easily wear again so money well spent. They won’t last long as they are thin and being gold plated will get tinny looking. However, for the price point, I will wear enough to get the value out of both pieces before they fall apart or turn.
The Shoes
Shoes are Nine West Mahmud Tie Pump in natural. Fit TTS. Pointed toe, suede construction. Ankle tie closure with 3″ heel. This style also comes in black and blue. Shoe is sold out but can be found after market on eBay, Poshmark and Lyst. I’ve had these shoes for a couple years (purchased at the Zappo’s outlet) so I didn’t need to purchase a new for the event which saved money on the look.
eBay
Counterfeits are not allowed to be sold on eBay but to no one’s surprise, they are all over that site. When shopping eBay for the real deal in designer handbags make sure you purchase from a seller who uses eBay Authenticate. When a seller uses eBay’s Authenticate, they have eBay’s independent experts authenticate, list and sell luxury handbags so buyers can shop in confidence. When you purchase this way, eBay verifies the authenticity so you can purchase in total confidence. It is also covered by eBay money back guarantee.
Red Carpet Look for Less - $150 total
In summary, the red carpet look for less ended up costing $150 total. Hair and makeup was done myself. Earrings and bracelet from TJ Maxx for $30. Calvin Klein dress purchased on eBay for $70. Designer purse also purchased on eBay for $50. Nine West strappy pointed toe shoes were previously purchased.
With some planning and creative shopping you can have that million dollar look for less.