Practical or Posh: Red Lace Dress with Sleeves

So I’m a little late on the national wear red day, but it’s never too late to wear a red dress. Wearing red shows you are confident and bold. Red is actually one of my favorite colors to wear when I need a little pick me up or I have an important meeting. I immediately feel a boost of energy and confidence.

When I saw this Valentino red lace dress with sleeves, I began daydreaming about my (pretend) couture closet. Back to reality, people. I can’t actually fathom spending this much on a single dress, even though it is ridiculously beautiful. Instead, I turned to my trusty online shopping tricks to find other similar dresses.

For less than a quarter of the cost, the Temperley London dress is still a stunner. I love the high scalloped neckline and cuffs. The cotton-blend lace is also very pretty, although I do wish the hem were scalloped like the Valentino dress.

The Valentino dress is so gorgeous with its floral guipure lace and scallops at the neckline and hem. I also love the 3/4 puffed sleeve, for a feminine and lady-like feel. The cost of this dress, besides the brand name alone, is because of the quality of the lace and the fact that it was made in Italy.

I’d happily take either of these dresses to add to my wardrobe, as a red lace dress with sleeves would work for so many occasions—a fancy dinner out, or dressed down layered under a leather jacket or tuxedo jacket.

Left – Valentino – $4590

Right – Temperley London – $750

What do you think of these red lace dresses with sleeves?