alex perry black strapless dress Midi Length Strapless dress with panelled construction over the hips and a cocktail length skirt featuring a high split Alex Perry - Short Black

Shop the Look: Next Up: Not All Dresses and Jackets Go Together, But These 5 Timeless Combinations Work Jess Kelham-Hohler is a freelance writer, editor and content strategist

If formalwear is rare- or you need to match a specific theme- renting keeps costs down and ensures you're in current styles

Black Bit Loafers Quench your style thirst with one of the most stylish loafers variants bit loafers

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I cant say enough how much I love this dress I wore it last year to the Preakness opening day event and it was perfect for the humid weather, says NBC Select senior editor Shalwah Evans