LOVE IT or leave it…these elaborately embroidered, richly patterned, or gilded and encrusted with jewels clothes are pure escapism.
(left to right) Prabal Gurung, Oscar de la Renta, Tom Ford.
Slipping into them transports you to another time and place (China! Italy! Brazil!), and they radiate a sense of refinement and adventure that makes you feel like a member of the jet set.
WORK IT:
Kate Spade New York Coat Cotton-polyester, $785; at Kate Spade New York, 212-988-0259.
Some of the looks are a nod to a nation, while others are a postcard for it.
ML Monique Lhuillier Dress – Embellished polyester crêpe, $448; saksfifthavenue.com for stores.
The subtle references tend to be more universally appealing (and wearable).
Adopt a when-in-Rome (or Beijing, or Rio) approach: Pile on big gold necklaces or long gemstone earrings (as long as they look chic – not like a Halloween costume) with black pants and a turtleneck.
Hair and makeup should have a regal sophistication: Part hair in the middle or pull it back, and go for bold brows or dramatic, kohl-rimmed eyes.