Practical or Posh: Black Embellished Top

I love an embellished top. I wasn’t even looking for this gorgeous Elie Saab top, but it popped up during one of my online window (browser) shopping trips. When I saw the black embellished top, I think my jaw actually dropped. No, I could never fathom spending THAT much on any one piece of clothing, but, come on, it IS gorgeous.

I love everything about it, the beading, the see-through paneling, the slight peplum bottom. The craftsmanship is just so perfect, but at such a hefty price point, it is far out of my reach. I search and searched for a similar-looking black embellished tops and I found some great ones (like this Kate Spade one!), but nothing that looked quite like the Elie Saab perfection.

This Alice + Olivia top was as close as I could come. I love how it also has the see-through paneling and I appreciate the higher neckline of this top. Turtlenecks are so ‘in’ for fall, so I think this piece would be a fun dressier addition to my work wardrobe. At more than 90% less than the Elie Saab, the Alice + Olivia is much more realistic for my budget, while still giving me that cool embellished top look.

Elie Saab  – $5920

Alice + Olivia – $299