You may already own something you can use!

Work wear
Even office separates can dance the night away when paired with glittery camisoles, high heels and the right evening bag.

Basic black makes the smoothest transition to after dark, so check your closet for these items as the building blocks for a party look:
-Jersey (or other drapey fabric) long skirt or fluid pants.
-Tailored pants in wool crepe (skip corduroy, flannel and other fabrics that can't make the leap to after dark).
-Crepe or silk jacket.
-Silk, satin or lace blouse (solids work best with black, red or white being the dressiest colors).
- Vests (just skip the shirt and you have an instantly sexy look!). See designer Carmen Marc Valvo's inspirational look, left.

A festive top
Just about any top that has a little oomph will do: lace, beaded, metallic, bright red.

Pair it with a knee-length skirt or soft pants.

More ideas:

-Wear a beaded shell under a black jacket for a polished corporate look.
-Try a sleeveless cowl neck with leather pants.
-Pair a slim, shimmering sweater with velvet drawstring pants.

Beadazzling
Think about what you already own that has a little zip from beadwork or glitz: shoes, wraps, necklaces, handbags.

-The idea here is not a head-to-toe shiny look, but accent pieces that will add glamour.
-Wear necklaces grouped together, crystal bracelets in jewel tones, or beaded mules.
-Make sure the outfit it accents is simple enough to show off your beaded wonders.

Just beautiful
Even if you only have five minutes to transform yourself into a goddess, you can use makeup you already own.

-Lush red lips (photo, left, from Donald Deal), smoky eyes and shimmery face powder are three quick fixes.
-Take a little more time and really accent every lash with mascara and apply flawless foundation with a sponge.
-Splash on a warm, sexy perfume (like Dior's Addict).

Important Jewelry
Don't worry if you can't afford the real stuff, costume jewelry is ideal for party fare.

-Try a luxe brooch with a simple, dressy tunic and soft pants.
-Layer ropes of pearls on a plain jewel-neck dress.
-Pin up your hair with a rhinestone barrette.

All photos copyright © 2002 Cynthia Nellis