$32 Women's Maxi Dress Short Sleeve Wrap V-Neck, $36 If your graduation gown and cap are darkly colored, why not wear an elegant black dress
Using Old Violet chalk paint, black and custom gold wax, and Dana Damask transfer, she creates an elegant, eye-catching piece
Pair with low-heeled ankle boots in suede or leather
Recommended winter formal timeline: 3 months before (October for December events): Start shopping, order dress 6 to 8 weeks before: Dress arrives, schedule alterations 4 weeks before: First fitting 2 weeks before: Final fitting 1 week before: Pick up dress, final try-on with all accessories Peak Winter Formal Season Considerations Busy ordering periods: October through December: Holiday parties, winter formals, New Years Eve January through March: Winter weddings, Valentines events, late-season formals During peak season, production times can extend
Others prefer a more pared-back approach to pattern, such as a simple striped shirt , like the one worn here by our very own M&S Insider Rob ( @marksandspencer_rob )