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Dressing for Black & White Ball: Four Trends to Shop

Sara Johnson | May 30, 2012

The party you've been waiting for since 2010 is about to take over Civic Center once again. Whether you've sprung for the VIP experience or are joining the throngs outside City Hall, here are four shopping suggestions for that last-minute LBD (and they're all in local stores).

Colorblock
Go modern in a black gown with swaths of white.

Left: Narciso Rodriguez Tailor Made Gown, $350 rental, at Rent The Runway

Right: Veni Infantino Satin Trim Chiffon Gown, $488 (includes stole, not pictured), at Nordstrom, 865 Market St., 415-243-8500

Sparkle
Stand out in the sea of B&W with some metallic (they're allowing platinum this year).

Left: Adrianna Papell Sequin Shift Dress, $258, at Nordstrom, 865 Market St., 415-243-8500

Right: Antonio Berardi beaded dress, $3,780, and jacket, $4,555, at Curve, 2360 Fillmore St., 415-885-4200

Textured solids
Feeling classy? Pick a floor-length solid with gathered or embroidered details.

Left: Nina Ricci Bow Detail Gown, $4,590, at Barneys New York, 77 O'Farrell St., 415-268-3500

Right: Sue Wong Strapless Embroidered Gown, $528, at Saks Fifth Avenue, 384 Post St., 415-986-4300

Lace
Show a little skin while secretly staying warm.

Left: Kay Unger Lace Bodice Dress, $480, at Saks Fifth Avenue, 384 Post St., 415-986-4300

Right: Kay Unger Lace Dress, $530, at Saks Fifth Avenue, 384 Post St., 415-986-4300