Sometimes, it takes very little to make a big fashion statement. In the open-and-shut case of Venable attorney Nikki Hasselbarth, 28, that statement was simply made with the gown she wore to "Mr. Pratt's Party." No other major accessories necessary.
The fancy frock was also a welcome reminder to many at the party tired of a long, cold winter that spring was right around the corner. But its vibrant print fit right in with Hasselbarth's year-round sense of style.
"I like bright colors. I'm very spring-y in general," the Owings Mills resident said.
She said it was love at first sight when she spotted the gown on a recent trip to Houston and thought of wearing it to a friend's black-tie wedding in the fall. However, when Hasselbarth made plans to attend the gala supporting programs and services at the Enoch Pratt Free Library, she couldn't resist donning the dress.
And her previous plans may just have bitten the dust.
"If this ends up on Instagram, I'm going to have to buy another dress for the wedding," she said with a laugh.
Start shopping, girlfriend.
HER STYLE: "Girly. I like tutus, and crinolines and heels."
HER ENSEMBLE: Milly primary color watercolor print strapless gown from Nordstrom in Houston. Gold chain and disc necklace, diamond tennis bracelet, and Christian Louboutin nude patent leather peep-toe stiletto platform pumps that were gifts. Diamond studs and cubic zirconia studs. Moyna yellow seed bead covered clutch from Intermix.
LOVING THOSE LOUBOUTINS: "They're cut narrow. I have narrow feet. So, they fit me [well]. And the way they're cut is very sexy … I have a few pairs. But, I keep my stuff for a long time. I'm loathe to get rid of things. I have shoes I've had since I was an undergrad."
SHE'D NEVER BE CAUGHT DEAD IN: "Birkenstocks — I hate the new designer [styles] that look like Birkenstocks — and Crocs."