The Black Swan Rides Again

In my Wear Your Whole Closet Challenge “rules” (that I made up) I said party clothes and shoes aren’t part of the challenge, because those things are meant to be worn for occasions only  and can actually be held onto for years, even passed down to generations. BUT, when it came time to think about a frock for bestie Candice’s fancy 40th bday bash, I wanted to try to “shop my closet” instead of buying something new.

my wedding frock designed by Shareen

My crew and I are all turning 40 this year and I loved the idea of wearing one of my all-time favorite dresses that I wore 5 years ago to my 35th. I call it “The Black Swan” and it’s a vintage dress that’s been reworked, as only the insanely talented Shareen can do. The black velvet bodice is cut perfectly and the sweetheart neckline has the most gorgeous green-black feathers I’ve ever seen. I love this dress so much I had Shareen make essentially the same dress for my wedding last year (which I called, of course, “The White Swan”).

I was also incredibly nervous because The Black Swan was pretty damn snug 5 years ago. I tried it on 2 weeks ago (while holding my breath) and was ecstatic that it fit! All that hard work I did this summer really paid off. Although last night as I put it on I felt like I was shoehorning myself in. Sitting down was also not an enjoyable activity but WHO CARES, right?! I felt awesome and had a blast.

Shoes are by Zara as I recently donated a pair of my black pumps….to Natalie Hill Jensen. But I knew she’d wear them and they hadn’t left my closet in 2 years. These newbies were def not comfy but I brought some backup sneaks for the after party and I’m not limping today, so that’s something.

This is Juan. Find him, command him to do your makeup.

Hair did’ by my girl Maria @ Haute Air Soho and Makeup by the incredible Juan @ Tom Ford, Bloomies Soho. The man is a makeup magician. I would’ve never picked such a dramatic eye but it was absolute perfection.

OutFIT Or LeaveIT?: I will have this dress as long as it will have me. I still love it as much (maybe more?) as I did 5 years ago and also feel so thrilled to have worn something I already own, saving clothing waste, not to mention $$$. Have you shopped your closet recently? I wanna hear about it!