White Party+ BET Awards

Hey Babes,
So if you’re like me, you have some sort of all white event to attend next week for 4th of July. And if you’re also like me, you’ve been procrastinating like *crazy* getting your outfit together (Eek!).
The delay, for me, is with good reason. My friends and I were talking…and though all white seems easy to do, you have to consider that you a.) want to stand out, b.) would DIE if anyone else had your outfit on (hello!), and c.) don’t want to look like a 12-year-old or d.) a marshmellow.
In searching for outfit inspiration, I, of course, looked to celebs:
If you're more of a 'dont' want to rock the boat' kind of chick, you can go with a classic, simple spaghetti strap dress like Ms. Selita Ebanks...

...a v-neck knee grazer with a gathered bodice a la Elise Neal...

...or a subtle, sophisticated white suit like Queen Latifah...

... shimmery camisole optional.
If you're more like me, you'll want to wear white with a bit more of a twist.
Kimora Lee shows us how it's done in a long sleeved dress that looks pretty plain in front...

...only to pack quite the punch in back...

...hot!
Tanned to perfection Nia Long also shows us a different way to go blanc in a delicate keyhole belted tunic...

...worn over light gold metallic shorts.
Still need ideas? Try focusing less on the outfit itself, and more on how you can set yourself apart with eye catching accessories. A distinctive shoe, cascading necklace, or light reflecting bauble are guaranteed showstoppers.
Nicole Richie's red pumps add a certain je ne sais quoi to her run of the mill snow white frock...

Tons of gold accessories, including multiple bangles, stiletto sandals, and sequined clutch make J. Lo's jumper more alluring...

...and unique belts spell u-p-g-r-a-d-e for Ciara...

..and Beyonce...

Cute.
Need a few recommendations?? I got you:
First the outfit:

Top Row: LaRok Palm Tree Top in Cream, $187, CoutureCandy
Super Sequins Dress, $198, www.frenchconnection.com; Walter Jacquard Swirl Shirt Dress in White, $275, CoutureCandy
Middle Row: Ella Moss Admiral Dress, $163, www.pinkmascara.com ; Piped Metallic Shorts, $45, www.ardenb.com ; Picqué Pant Suit, $79, www.spiegel.com.
Bottom Row: Metallic Linen Jumpsuit, $24.80, www.forever21.com ; Polished Short Sleeve Jacket, $118, www.whitehouseblackmarket.com; Rachel Roy Layla One Shoulder Top, $445, shopbop.com
And of course, can't forget the accessories!

Top Row:
Michael Michael Kors ivory striped 'Montauk' belt, $29, www.bluefly.com; Kenneth Jay Lane Pyramid Bracelets, $98, www.maxandchloe.com
Bottom Row: Chinese Laundry Brass Sandals, $63, zappos.com
Elissa Bloom Jewel Pouch, $41.60, www.ebags.com
Now you have tons of options. Now go on... wear summer white with style!
Smootches!
Video Throwback:
Whenever I think of all white, I think of Aaliyah's amazingly beautiful video for 'Rock the Boat' (I actually choreographed a dance to this back in the day...didn't know I was a dancer, did ya?)…

…Doesn't it seem like it was just yesterday that Aaliyah was topping the charts?? I still love this song...R.I.P Aaliyah!
PS So the BET awards were on last night…I didn’t watch it (no cable, ack!), but I was able to peep a few pics online. Of course I have a few favorites…
Ms. Keys...

...certainly stepped her game up in the slate colored floor skimming gown with jeweled neck accents.
Ciara...

...looked toned and trim in this trapeze style gray cocktail dress.
Kelly....

...was smoking hot in this beaded number.
And our good girl gone bad, Rihanna...

...showed us again how to rock all white with flair.
Everyone came correct, but my absolute favorite was…

Eva! She looked smashing in this technicolored long gown. The multiple colors played well off of her tanned skin, brown eyes, and dark brown tresses.

Gorgeous.
For more commentary and pictures, visit ybf.blogspot.com.
PSS The website Dlisted reports that uber designer Liz Claiborne...

... passed away today at the age of 78. Rest in Peace!