formal dresses

We are so excited to share this testimonial with you, from Allison Wanichek and her mom, Staci. Allison is from Walla Walla, WA and has shopped with us for all of her high school formals. And when we say all, we mean all. She has picked out so many gorgeous dresses from RissyRoos.com, and has the pictures to prove it! Check them out below.

Allison is a senior in high school, with quite the list of accomplishments. She is an NHS member, a Young Life Leader, and was MCC All-Conference second team for golf. Next year, she'll be off to college, attending Washington State University in the fall. She will be majoring in Marketing in college. She'll be hitting the ground running, with plans to go through Rush. Continue reading →

The warm weather is here in full force, and that means it's not only Dress Season, but Wedding Season as well (it's all about dresses at weddings, after all!). So, to help our Roo Girls be ready to attend any weddings you're invited to this summer, we've put together some of our favorite dresses that you can wear to a variety of different types of weddings: Black Tie, Formal, Semi Formal, and Beach wedding. Check out our top picks by event type for dresses for guests at weddings below, and shop more looks at RissyRoos.com.

For a black tie wedding, we're all about one of our brand new Sherri Hill looks, Sherri Hill style 32292. This gatsby inspired fitted jersey evening gown features a stunning beaded neckline and a draped beaded back. This gown is a new addition to the Sherri Hill collection for Fall 2015, but it's a perfect choice for any formal event!

Shail K. style 3667 is a fierce mini dress that's all about elegance. Shail K.'s signature, stylish beaded pattern adorns the lovely cocktail dress from high choker neckline to hem. Plus, gracefully bare shoulders finish off the divine look of this dress.

Sherri Hill style 1978 is all about the classic Sherri Hill silhouette, which makes it perfect to bring a little fun to a semi-formal event, while still looking super elegant. The strapless short dress features a sweetheart neckline and a shimmering crystal beaded bodice with a flowy short chiffon skirt. Like Style 32292, this dress is part of the new Sherri Hill Fall 2105 collection, but who wouldn't want to wear this dress immediately?! It can easily be worn in the summer months, making you totally ahead of the trend.

Summer is all about beach weddings! To get that beachy vibe, we love Bari Jay BC-1500. It's a strapless chiffon evening gown with a shirred bodice and a natural waistline, making this a dress that looks good on just about every figure. Maxi dresses like this one are so perfect for summer weddings for when the wind kicks up by the shore. But, if you prefer short, check out Bari Jay BC-1500-S to get this same style in a cocktail dress length. While this is a great dress to wear as a guest to a wedding, this look can also be used as bridesmaid dresses.

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Spring is here, and that means it's time for lots and lots of college formal events. Whether attending your school's formal or a sorrority or fraternity formal, it's definitely a time to be dressed to the nines! Before you even begin to start shopping, double-check the dress code and determine if the event is a formal or semi-formal. One great way to make sure you're buying the right outfit is to talk to upperclassmen who have attended the events before and ask what they've worn. If it's a semi-formal event, a cocktail dress is a great option. If the invitation says formal or black tie, it may be more appropriate to wear a full-length gown. Either way, it's always fun to dress up!

Below are four dresses that we love for college formal events: two cocktail dresses for a semi-formal, and two full-length gowns for a formal event.

Spring Semi-Formal Event

Shail K. is a great designer to look at for cute, sexy cocktail dresses. The designer has two dresses that we absolutely love for spring formal events: style SK3195 and style SK3823.

Shail K. style SK3195 has a hand beaded ombre pattern that's just gorgeous. The black, blue, purple color makes it perfect to wear any time of the year, so you can definitely get multiple uses out of this dress.

With pastels being so in this season, Shail K SK3823 couldn't be any more perfect for Spring with the two colors it comes in: Peach (shown above) and Nude. The flowing layers and satin accentuated waist give the look of beauty and power, and the translucent fabric around the neck and sides let enough sexy peek through while keeping the untouchable aura of a goddess!

Spring Formal Event

For sexy formal gowns that aren't as glitz and glam as prom dresses can be, there are two designers that we love: Sherri Hill and La Femme. Both have evening gowns that are so perfect for a variety of formal or black tie affairs.

Sherri Hill style 8510 is our favorite evening gown for Springtime. It's a simple yet elegant strapless sweetheart dress that has intricate beaded detail. We especially love the subtle high-low look on the dress. You'll also have a variety of colors to choose from that are all so perfect for springtime: Strawberry (shown above), Ivory, Pink, Purple, Turquoise, and Yellow!

La Femme style 18713 is a beautiful figure flattering dress with intricate beading on the bodice and soft gathers at the waist. The beading gives it such an elegant look, while not being over the top. The dress comes in a variety of different colors, such as Peacock (pictured above), Purple, Nude, Light Lime, and Peach. If your event is a black tie affair, this dress in Black is a perfect option.

Do you have any Spring Formals to attend? Leave us a comment below and let us know!

The 2012 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, which aired this past Tuesday (Nov. 4th)  was as amazing as ever! The performances by Bruno Mars, Rihanna and Justin Bieber were absolutely incredible - you could tell the whole place was full of Bieber Fever!

While we couldn't take our eyes off of Biebs, we were amazed by Rihanna's performance and outfits. We especially loved her Audrey Hepburn inspired black gown with pearl glasses and necklace and lace gloves. That's why we picked Faviana Style 6428 as this week's Dress of the Week. We love the classic black gown, of course with a little sexiness added in with a slit down the side and a sweetheart neckline!

This strapless evening gown has tightly ruched fabric across the bust and bodice. The skirt has a slight flair, and the back reveals a flyaway detail of chiffon for a whimsical touch to this classic evening gown. Best yet, it comes in 8 different colors - black, forest green, ivory, navy, plum, red, royal, & Tiffany blue. Just add some pearls to which ever color you choose and you'll look like a star!

You definitely can never go wrong with the classic Audrey Hepburn look, whether it's on the runway or at prom.

The BIG ONE SIX is that time in a girl's life when she gets to shine and be the center of the universe for that one special day! It's an exciting day for her to get creative and showcase her personality through her party theme. It's all about the decor, the dress, and the party atmosphere. People have gotten really imaginative with their themes over the years. We decided to pick out some of our favorite Sweet 16 party themes - we hope they give you some inspiration for your special bash!

Candy Theme:

I hope all your guests have a sweet tooth because this one puts the sweet in Sweet Sixteen! If you're looking for a really delicious way to celebrate your 16th birthday, then look no further. You can go from Willy Wonka to Candyland! These playful dresses will go great with this whimsical theme. The pastel colors resemble candy colors and the sparkle gives it a fun and girly look!

Dresses:

1. Alyce Paris 5432 - Turquoise Strapless Hi-Lo Dress with encrusted geometric prisms and a sweetheart neckline. It also features a lace up back.

2. Claudine for Alyce 2201 - A Beaded Cotton Candy Pink V-Neck dress with side cut outs and sheer three-quarter length sleeves.

Accessories:

1. Sizzle by Coloriffics Camilla 6300 - Sexy glitter platform sandal with ankle strap detail and criss-cross straps at toe.

Mardi Gras Madness Theme:

Mardi Gras is an extravagant celebration of crazy costumes, wild makeup, and colorful masks! Whether or not your birthday falls near the actual New Orleans's Mardi Gras, it is the perfect Sweet 16 theme for anyone who wants a magnificent carnival style to celebrate their special day. The gown we picked in our Polyvore set is so Mardi Gras appropriate; the multicolored jewels around the bodice has the right festive colors and the feathery skirt pairs up perfectly with the most important accessory...the mask of course!

Dress:

1. Alyce 6095 - A strapless black tulle and feather mermaid gown with a sweetheart neckline and a multicolored jeweled corset bodice.

Accessories:

1. Alisha Hill Shoes Selena S1143 - Platform heels in black with multicolored stones and a 5 inch heel. Perfectly matches with the dress!

2. Helen's Heart Style JE-CV004 S - These super cool Volcano Crystal earrings are ideal for this outfit!

Hollywood Theme:

Lights! Camera! Action! Roll out the red carpet and pose for the paparazzi! This one is probably the most glamorous one of them all. Guests will feel like they are going to a movie premiere and you of course will be the star. The amazing gowns below are so Oscar worthy! The intricate beading and silhouette exudes elegance. Angelina Jolie will have nothing on you!

Dresses:

1. Claudine for Alyce 2213 - A beautifully beaded blue radiance strapless mermaid gown with a tulle skirt.

2. Claudine For Alyce 2124 - A long beaded mermaid gown in lilac with spaghetti straps, sparkling jeweled sequins around the sheer bodice, and a tulle skirt.

3. Alyce Paris 6083 - A gorgeous beaded aqua one shoulder jersey gown with front side slit and side cut outs.

Accessories:

1. Touch Ups Tahiti 943 - Formal silver 3 3/4 inch heels with beading around the straps

2. Helen's Heart Style JE-BT002 - AB Sparkling Prom Earrings (top)

3. Helen's Heart Style JB-168354 - Silver base AB stone bracelet

4. Crystal Pear J5613E1S - Drop Earrings (bottom)

New York City Theme:

Start spreading the news...you're leaving today...you want a great big part of it...New York, New York! Bring the glamour and excitement of NYC to your party. Your guests will get to experience celebrating in the middle of Time Square without going over the Washington Bridge. This is one super chic party theme!

1. Alyce Paris 5529 - A black strapless ball gown with a full tulle and lace skirt and beaded corset top.

2. Alyce Paris 5533 -A strapless light blue tulle gown with a full skirt and beaded trim on the sweetheart neckline and bodice.

Accessories:

1. Night Moves by Allure Shoes - Satin platform with 3 1/2" heel, accented with a satin ruffle in the center (On sale for $40.00)

2. Touch Ups Prom Shoes Style Patsy - 4 inch jeweled halter sandal with an adjustable ankle strap and studded platform

Which one is your favorite theme? Which will you pick for your special day? Tell us by leaving a comment below!

Keira Knightley's newest film, 'Anna Karenina' had its New York premiere at Florence Gould Hall earlier this month (on Nov. 7th). The British actress wore a stunning navy blue long-sleeve lace evening gown on the red carpet.

We loved her classy look with the lace dress and how she kept it simple by wearing a tight bun and only earrings for jewelry. The red lipstick was the perfect touch against the navy gown.

 As we've mentioned in past posts, lace is a very popular trend right now (Kristen Stewart wore lace at the Los Angeles Breaking Dawn 2 premiere). If you'd love to rock a long sleeve lace evening gown just like Keira for your next formal event, the below dresses are great options!

A. Mac Duggal 78704R - A black lace one-shoulder evening gown. The dress features delicate lace and bead designers that travel from the hip to the wrist of the single sheer sleeve. A thigh high slit adds excitement but does not take away from the classy look of the dress.

B. Mac Duggal 85007R - Keep it classic in this A-line style evening dress featuring a voluminous skirt that hits just above the ankle. The exquisite sheer fabric on the top is filled with intricate beaded floral designs that travel down to the three-quarter length sleeves. Perfect for a formal affair.

C. Claudine for Alyce 2242 - Give the lace look new meaning in pink! The dress features 3/4 length sleeves, a mermaid/trumpet skirt, high mandarin collar, and a peek-a-boo back.

The film 'Anna Karenina' also stars Jude Law and Aaron Taylor-Johnson. It is set in late 19th Century Russia high-society and is about Anna, who is an aristocrat that enters into a life-changing affair with Count Vronsky (Jude Law). The story is adapted from Leo Tolstoy's novel of the same name.

Are you excited for the film? None of us here at Rissy Roo's have seen it yet, but we're hoping to soon! Let us know what you thought by leaving a comment below if you've seen it!

Source: Examiner.com

At the AMA's, viewers are not only excited for the on-stage performers and winners, but also for the fashion! This year's red carpet was full of eye-catching gowns and short little numbers.

The favorite Country music album winner, Carrie Underwood, stunned everyone on the red carpet in a gorgeous embellished purple gown. The high neckline and cap sleeves really give it an elegant look.

If you want to take Carrie's look to your next formal shindig, check out the pictures below for some of our favorite look-a-like dresses.

1. Claudine For Alyce Evening Gown Style 2212: Be sure to turn heads in this divine evening gown with beading and lace. This is definitely an award winning look!

2. Precious Formals Evening Gown Style P8945: A modest but elegant long dress with cap sleeves and a sheer neck and back trimmed with hand sewn sequins. The hi slit adds a little sexiness!

Claudine for Alyce 2212

Precious Formals P8945

As expected, Rapper Nicki Minaj made a bold statement in this fun bright neon yellow mermaid gown. Even though it was very different from her usual costume-like outfits, the color still gave it that Nicki Minaj touch!

This style was perfect for her curvacious bod. If you want to show off your curves and make a bold statement at your next formal affair, check out the bright mermaid style dresses below that we carry at Rissy Roo's.

1. Alyce Mermaid Gown Style 6740: It's a tulle curve hugging mermaid prom gown with a lace-up back. Features floral beaded embroidery and asymmetrical pleating on the bodice. It's on sale for $230!

2. Alyce Mermaid Gown Style 6737: You'll look classy and sophisticated in this yellow taffeta mermaid prom dress with a pleated bodice and lace-up back. The crystal motifs embellish the bust line and on the side of skirt.

Alyce 6740

Alyce 6737

Stacy Keibler showed off her endless stems in this beautifully beaded mini dress.  We love the geometric patterns and sparkle on the dress - it gives the mini dress a whole new look!

Take a tip from Stacy and rock a mini dresses with geometric patterns with the dresses below. It's a versatile look that can be dressed up or down, which makes it a must have in your wardrobe!

1. Twelve by Mac Duggal Cocktail Dress Style 3484T: Outshine the rest in this spectacular short sequin cocktail dress. Perfect for your next special occasion. This slim fitting dress features elaborate patterns of gems and sequins along with a plunging V neck bodice.

2. Claudine For Alyce Cocktail Dress Style 2168: Be daring in this black sultry Claudine mini dress. The low V neck in the front and back makes it flirtatious and enticing. The geometric pattern and bead work add sparkle and dazzle.

Twelve by Mac Duggal 3484T

Claudine For Alyce 2168

New artist of the year winner, Carly Rae Jepsen, rocked a confetti-like sparkly gown in baby pink. The 'Call me Maybe' star looked as pretty as ever on the red carpet!

This timeless fresh feminine look would be perfect for your next prom or formal bash! Here are some of our favorite look-a-likes...let the glitter do all the talking...

1. Faviana: This is a beaded evening gown with an illusion halter and chiffon skirt. The gown features an alluring low back and a daring hi slit! It also comes in white.

2. Shail K. Evening Gown Style SK3192L: You'll look like a red carpet diva in this sparkly evening gown! It features a sexy V neck and a seductive open back. Also available in navy blue.

3. Terani Evening Gown Style GL1410: This halter lace gown has a plunging neckline and features a chiffon overlay, crystal embellishments, and a hi slit on the left side. It'll give you that old Hollywood look!

Faviana Faviana 6923

Shail K. SK3192L

Terani GL1410

Who do you think looked the best on the red carpet? Which star inspired you for your next formal look? Let us know by leaving a comment below!

It may have a creepy name, but oxblood (you can also call it burgundy) has been all the rage lately, and for good reason; it takes the classic color red and gives it a new spin. The dark, rich shade adds a sense of sophisticated edginess to any outfit. It is also a versatile color when it comes to pairing it with an outfit; you can let oxblood be the stand-out color and wear it with neutrals like tan, gray, black, or brown, or let it take the back-seat and wear it with patterns like leopard print and houndstooth.

If you are looking to try the color in a more subtle way, it also works great on nails or lips, or as an accessory to your favorite outfit on a bag, jewelry, or pair of shoes.

Finding an oxblood-inspired dress will definitely give you an air of class and sexiness at any formal event. When wearing oxblood to a formal event, pairing it with neutral accessories will help to let your dress stand out amongst the crowd. The color looks great on both shorter and longer dresses, so pick one that you really love! Check out our formal dress choices below to rock the oxblood look.

Faviana 6813

Alyce Designs Style 4063

Alyce Designs Prom Dress Style 6828

Alyce B'Dazzle Prom Dresses Style 35428

Source: Refinery29 & Glamour