Dress to Impress

This January 1st, I’ll be ringing in the New Year at a club in the city with a large group of people — and more specifically, with at least a dozen other females. And with every girl trying to outshine the other, wouldn’t it be a total disaster if I were to end up with a boring dress? Or even worse, the same dress as someone else?

So, to thwart my growing anxiety, I got smart. Instead of making a beeline for the obvious stores where I’d be likely to find a great party dress — and undoubtedly also one I’d be likely to find on the backs of about 20 other girls — I ventured to a trendy, SoHo-esque women’s boutique just south of our office in Wappingers Falls. At Madina Park, I found tons of fabulous sweaters, dresses, jeans, jackets, and everything else that’s in style this season.

While I sifted through their racks of gorgeous designer duds, I kept repeating to myself my dress credentials: glitzy and fun, but also elegant and chic; must fit well but still afford me the ability to dance all night long; extravagant but not too over-the-top, so my date would be able to coordinate his outfit with mine (yeah, we’re like that).

And thanks to the amazing owners at Madina Park and their beautiful merchandise, success was mine! I found the perfect dress — and loads of other great ideas for future soirées as well.

If you’re still searching for the perfect New Year’s dress, take a look at these ideas – from black tie to cocktail – you’re sure to find the dress that’s right for you.

This dress was the first one I tried on. I loved the sparkly neckline and the shiny material — but the best part was finding out there were pockets! This way you can stuff your cell phone, lip gloss, or camera in them and not have to worry about running back and forth from the dance floor to your table. And because the dress isn’t form fitting, chances are no one will have any idea about your little stash. (Unfortunately, this was too big on me and they didn’t have a smaller size.)
Single, $282

I know I was looking for something I’d be dancing in all night — and obviously I’d get a little sweaty with these long sleeves — but I just HAD to try this on. How could I pass up cashmere? The dress was so comfortable — and literally felt weightless. This would be a great dress if you’re going to a cocktail party where there won’t be too much moving around. You’ll stay warm and comfortable. (And, as owner Jennifer pointed out, you’ll be able to wear this one even in February). The sequin trimming makes it dressy enough for the holidays, though suitable for other less festive events, say Valentine’s Day.
minnie rose, $396

I LOVE this dress. The material is beautiful and it fit so well. Unfortunately, it was a bit fancier than what I was looking for. But if you’re going someplace formal, this dress is très parfait. The jeweled accent and the chiffon sash will totally separate you from every other woman going with the “little black dress” look.
DINA BAR-EL, $476

This dress caught my eye as soon as I walked in the store. It had everything I was looking for: the shimmery sequins, it was loose enough for me to dance (and eat!) freely, and the style is one of the season’s most popular trends. Sadly, it was a size or two too big for me. DINA BAR-EL, $498

This is it! Everything about this dress is just right: the print is so fun, the cut of the dress really works for my height, and if you look in the mirror in the picture you can see that the back of it is really pretty too. I doubt I’ll see this one out next week. How fun will it be to twirl away on the dance floor all night with this on! Now for the shoes…
Single, $282

Madina Park
946 Route 376, Suite 10
Wappingers Falls, NY 12590