Reader ET wrote in a really long time ago and asked:

Hi! I'm looking for a nice crochet lace dress, preferably with a fitted waist and short sleeves. There's a lot of lace out there right now but nothing that seems quite right. A contrast with the underlay isn't absolutely necessary, but I don't like all white/cream. Cream lace with black/navy/purple underlay, or some dark lace in general would probably be the ideal. I love the black crochet lace with cream underlay of this dress: Wilfred Quai Dress  the only issue it being a bodycon that I struggle to get myself into. It's a bit pricier than what I'd like for something I'm not sure about, but am otherwise willing to pay around that much if it's really perfect. I actually would have liked this Maitland Lace Dress from Anthro okay except that the skirt kind of fell flat. I tried it on and it just didn't do anything for me. I'm typically a size 12 if this helps at all. Sorry if I'm giving too many requirements! Thank you!
Okay, reader ET, I'm really sorry this answer is SO belated - I actually sort of hope you've found your dress already.  Or that you've successfully phoned home (I'm sorry, I couldn't help myself, literally...couldn't do it.)  Anyway - on the off-chance that you haven't - I think I've seen some good ideas out there for you.  But first, for those following along at home, here are the dresses Reader ET sent in as examples.
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Click through to see actual dress with black underlay - there was no picture of it on the model.
Both of these dresses are pretty - but nothing is wildly special about them.  And I do love when retailers use "body-con" to just mean "really tight" instead of what I think it *should* mean, which is form flattering.  Ugh.  So lets get started on finding better options.
Midi Dress in Crochet Lace from ASOS ($64.49 - so the burgundy in the picture is apparently no longer available (boo), but the black version's details didn't show up well so I went with this picture instead.  I like that this is fit and flare, though its sleeveless and not contrasting, and the price is right.  I recently bought my first "midi" dress form ASOS and I surprisingly like the length, its fun and "twirly, if that makes sense.)
Eliza J Lace Cap-Sleeve Dress at Dillard's ($106.80 - available in all sizes - I like the light blue crochet with what looks like a silver lining - its not a pairing you see much.  I also like the belt to emphasize the fit and flare.  I hope its longer than it seems on this model and I also wish the pictures on Dillard's was better so we could see the details better.
Elie Tahari Lolly Dress in teal/coral at Elie Tahari ($358 - okay, so obviously this is WAY out of budget, BUT, it is also already on half off and all sizes are available at the Tahari site - so the price may drop further.  I also think it fits your needs well and when I saw it, it was so pretty I took a picture of it through the store window at the mall.) For anyone who likes this, Muse has a similar but clearly not as cool version.
Sonia Black Lace Bodycon Dress from Reiss ($230 - so this is another "splurge" i.e. out of budget dress - though slightly less dramatically so.  But I like many things about it, it has the black over cream overlay that you like.  Its bodycon, but from Reiss, so it probably means bodycon as in form flattering.  And the detailing at the waist and boob area (for lack of a better term) gives almost the effect of a belted dress without actually wearing, you know, a belt.  Perhaps it will go on sale?)
Graceful Gaiety Dress at ModCloth ($164.99 - I adore this dress and there are only two left, but hey, one is in your size ET.  I just think this dress would stand out in the best possible way - its vintage but not dated.  And the color would look AMAZING on a wide variety of skin tones.  I know its not exactly what you came here looking for - but I want to throw it in the mix.) 
Ivy & Blu for Maggy Boutique Cotton Lace Dress at Nordstroms ($178 - so its hard to tell from the picture - but the description says this dress is a lighter pink lace overlaid on a brighter pink lining. I bet it would look lovely in person.  I like the elbow-length sleeves and I'm a sucker for a boat neck.  Also, I think with a structured blazer you could probably wear it to work.  An interesting option anyway.)   
Hand Crochet Dress from Boden ($187.60 - this was one of the few truly *crocheted* dresses I could find out there - most just being lace with a crotchet like pattern.  This is the navy dress, so you can't really see the details, but click over and zoom in and the detailing in the crochet is beautiful.  I know its long sleeved, but the sleeves are fairly lightly knitted so they may stay cool for the summer.)
Suzi Chin for Maggy Boutique sleeveless A-Line dress at Zappos ($169.99 - its really a shame this one is sleeveless because its a really pretty take on this whole contrasting overlay look - the lace/crochet/cutouts are entirely different and the shape is just great.  If its not right for you Reader ET, I wonder if other of my readers might like it for summer and spring parties and events ... or Easter Sunday.  :-P)
Okay - so those are a lot of options - most of which don't precisely fit your needs but are cute anyway.  Let me know if you like them (or if you've already bought something since I'm a slowpoke.)  I hope you find something that makes your crochet loving heart go pitter-patter.  Good night and good luck.....at the mall. (God I'm such a dork, why do you all come here?)
 
Reader LM takes the bow before the event and asks:

Hello TCFKAG! Found you through Corporette (longtime reader/lurker) and I have a fashion question for you... I know I am super-late to the party, but I have been wanting some tie-neck blouses to wear tucked into pencil skirts at work or with skinny jeans and heels at night. I like the styles that tie up high - e.g., closer to the neck rather than the boobs (if that makes sense). Can you help me find some reasonably priced, cute options, preferably under $60? I am open to solid-colored or patterned. I am about a size 8 (usually M). Thanks in advance!

Let me first thank you profusely for NOT calling them by the other name that shall not be used for these blouses that I frankly think is gross and icky and I react to it like some people react to the word moist.  So - yeah - lets stick with tie-neck blouses, shall we.  And as far as missing the boat, if you missed the boat, then everyone else who's wearing them right now missed the boat by a couple of decades, so missing the boat by a year is just a blip really and hardly can be called super-late.  Fashionably late, sure, but that's the way to be, right?  Moving on to the actual CLOTHES now.  Lets find some blouse that shall not be named.  As a warning, at that price point most of your options will likely be polyester or poly blends, but I'll try to do my best to find some deals on real silk or silk blends too.   

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I'm on a total How I Met Your Mother kick tonight, don't ask me why. These things just happen.
One more quick note about shopping for tie-neck blouses - many if not most of the tie necks are in fact adjustable, so they can either be tied higher up at the neckline or lower at the boob area (for lack of a better term) so what you see on the website is a styling choice of the retailer and not the exclusive way the shirt can be worn.  So you want to double check those product details if you see a tie shirt you like but its tied in the wrong place. 
9 & Co. Solid Tie Neck in Summer Straw at JC Penney ($25 - really for a basic neutral for under blazers or suits - the price sure is right.)
Freeway polka-dot tie-neck blouse from Dillard's ($35.40 - long sleeves and polka dots - yay!  Polyester, yes, but machine washable...so that's nice.)
Max Studio Georgette Tie Neck Blouse in Red at Loehmann's ($39.99 - I adore the v-shaped detailing on this shirt behind the bow and the sleeves and the color.  The tie is low but PRETTY.)
Sleeveless tie-neck blouse in mint green at Calvin Klein ($34 with additional 30% off at check out - poly-blend - love love love - simple, understated, and gives the tie neck the pride of place.  Also comes in a brighter blue.)
Geo Print Bow Blouse from The Limited ($49.50 plus 50% off tops with code - made of silk crepe de chine - I l.o.v.e this print and though the bow may be low, I wonder if its adjustable OR if a tailor could add hook and eye closure to raise it a smidge.  Either way, I think this is my favorite.)
Tie Neck Polyester Blouse in Lemonade at Vince Camuto ($79.00 - new product, I'd wait for sale, but how perfect is a bright yellow blouse for summer?  Perfect under navy or with gray or white - I love this.)
Bow Tie Blouse in black/camelia multi at Ann Klein ($49 - luck sizes only, but includes yours.  Least helpful model picture ever - but looks really cute and great print.)
Nine West Platinum Charmeuse Tie-Neck Blouse at the Bon Ton ($34.98 - ummmm, I think it might be great for an office Christmas party under a black glittery blazer or with a red pencil skirt and black cardi. Its glitz without GLITZ, definitely tie the bow differently.)
So!  I hope these options give you a few ideas to add a little new flare to your summer wardrobe.  Who doesn't like adding a bow to their clothes.  Its like you're a gift that you get to unwrap at night (or someone ELSE gets to unwrap....BAZINGA.)  Man, the dorky tv references are flying fast and hard tonight.  Think that's a sign its time for me to log off.  Well, LM, please come back in the comments and let me know how you make out.  

AND TO MY OTHER READERS, THE CONTEST ENDS TOMORROW AT MIDNIGHT.  HAVE YOU ENTERED?  IF SO, YOU NEED NEED NEED TO SEND ME AN E-MAIL AT [email protected].  BECAUSE DESPITE MY BEST EFFORTS AFTER READING MATILDA AS A CHILD, I HAVE NEITHER TELEPATHY NOR TELEKINESIS.  SO ENTER!  WIN!  LET ME SHOP FOR YOU PERSONALLY!!  (AND REMEMBER - FACEBOOK COUNTS.  AND IF YOU HAVE NO SOCIAL MEDIA, YOU COULD EVEN SEND AN E-MAIL TO SOME OF YOUR NEAREST AND DEAREST FRIENDS.)  


okay....no more big letters they scare me.  good night all.  good night moon.  good night girl in the polka-dot balloon.
 
Reader LK de-lurks and inquires:

Hi TCFAKG, I lurk in C'rette, sometimes comment. I need help with wedding attire. I am going to a family wedding in late September in NYC. The wedding itself is held in the Botanical Gardens, and I will also be attending the rehearsal dinner and the Sunday morning brunch (both to be held in Scarsdale). I asked my cousin (groom's sister) for pointers and she replied: "As for dress code. My understanding is that for the wedding itself long (but not poufy) and/or black would be fine but black in general is the norm for New York. I am aiming for dark and below the knee but most probably not to the floor (though I went to a wedding in NYC the same formality last week and there was a lot of floor length even in dark colors so that would be fine). . It's definitely more formal than a little black dress though, but I think even one step up is fine with multiple steps also being ok. For the other events: Friday I am going cocktail and probably black - often the bride wears like white with a pattern though [bride] may not but I would avoid that specifically. Sunday brunch I am going to wear a skirt and flats - like business casual but not so worky. If that makes sense. I don't think the weekend will be very warm, so keep that in mind" Do you have any further insight? any shopping options? Mostly for the wedding itself, I can probably manage the rehearsal and look for something for the brunch. I actually live overseas, but can do online shopping. I am usually a small/4 in AT/BR. Incidentally, I am 5'3", and husband is 6'3", so anything that makes me taller would be appreciated. I have no set budget, but I'd like to spend no more than $300. Thanks! L

So, I'm starting to think I should change the name of my blog to "TCFKAG Shops for Wedding Guest Attire."  Just kidding (sort of); who doesn't like shopping for pretty dresses.  Here is my quick summation of what you need:
  • Rehearsal dinner: black or dark colored cocktail dress.
  • Wedding: Midi-length or tea-length black or dark colored formal dress - perhaps a long gown if something is awesome.
  • Sunday brunch: Fun business casual.
  • Overall - lighter fabrics because it may be hotter than hell.

Assuming that summary is right, I'll suggest a few options for all three events (I know you said just the wedding but I don't do things half way in these here parts).  And since its my site and I'll do what I want to, I might also offer up some fun shoe and/or accessories ideas.  Because I'm awesome like that.  So here we go.  One last note, since you didn't clarify where you live overseas, I'm mostly sticking with American retailers here - but for future submissions and other readers, I can search on country specific websites (at least for some countries) so you can at least tell me where you're coming from.  
REHEARSAL DINNER
Black one-shouldered draped sleeveless cocktail dress from Calvin Klein ($49.99 - I actually just recommended this to a friend for a wedding this summer, she ordered it and likes it a lot.  It so classy and sleek but could totally be glitzed up with red shoes or metallic jewelry.  I'm a big fan and am thinking about getting it myself, the price is certainly right.)
Petite Seamed Detail Sweetheart Body-Conscious Dress from ASOS ($64.49 - lovely classic shape and I assume at your height you can wear petite sizes - only issue is, based on the picture, it looks like you'll need to get a slip under it.)
Calvin Klein Strapless Neon-Trim Dress at Dillard's ($59.40 - another fairly simple yet classy number from CK - though the neon pink adds a twist.  Its a cotton/spandex blend, meaning it should breath well in the heat, and you could maybe add interest with a pink wrap.  Overall pretty cute - though not sure if Dillard's will ship to you - might have to find it elsewhere!)
Suzi Chin for Maggy Boutique Ruched Matte Jersey Dress at Nordstroms ($118.00 - the Suzi Chin line has lots of great dresses for this sort of thing but this is one of my favorites.  56 reviews and it has 4 stars and I just think it looks really flowy and flattering - maybe consider one of the non-black colors...I know, scandalous, but the purple is cute!)
Nue by Shani pink and navy two tone cocktail dress from eDressMe ($92.00 - so this is kind of a curveball both because its final sale and because its not really what you described but something about it just called to me, plus eDressMe ships world wide so that's a plus.  Only available in a size 6, so may run too big, but sometimes these sorts of dresses run kind of small, so it may even out in the end.)
Paper Dolls Mirrored Lace Body-Conscious Dress at ASOS ($98.43 - another color option, I love cobalt and black and think its both super on trend right now but also classic.  ASOS ships internationally I believe and I think this dress is fabulous.)
Corso Como Dover Pump at DSW ($109.95 - I feel like red pumps are a great combo with black dresses and the cut-outs at the back of these give them a little interest.  I don't know, they're cool.)
Ivanka Trump Ariell High Heel Ankle Strap Pumps at Bloomingdales ($105.00 - metallics are my other favorite with black dresses and I'm super into gold right now, so here you go.  I also really like black and gold together, like these ones at Piperlime, but they're only available in limited sizes so I went with the Ivankas instead.)
THE WEDDING
ML Monique Lhullier Black Knit One Shoulder Sequined Side Ruched Dress at Bluefly ($115.97 - a comfortable fabric but the ruching, sequins, and asymmetrical strap adds interest.)
Tadashi Shoji Portrait Collar Pleated Mesh Gown ($298 - I LOVE this one - someone in my life should have a formal event so I can purchase it please.)
Adrianna Pappell Illusion Yoke Pleated Dress at Nordstroms ($158.00 - extremely well reviewed and looks very flattering - a bit prim and proper but lovely.)
Adrianna Pappell Pleat Bodice Rossette Ballgown at Nordstroms ($238 - fun if you want to go true ballgown.)
Starlight Hearted Dress at ModCloth ($202.99 - loyal readers of the site will recognize this dress as I've posted it before and still love it - may not be long enough but the poofy skirt and gold accents might make it work, especially if paired with awesome metallic gold shoes and fabulous jewelry.)
JS Boutique Cap-Sleeve Beaded Pleated Evening Gown at Macy's ($136 - yay navy, yay sparkles.) 
Tadashi Shoji Asymmetrical Ruched Mesh Dress at Nordstroms ($228 - I love Tadashi Shoji, I think they make some of the most interesting clothes out there, and I like the design of this one.  Flattering and interesting all in one.)
Lauren Ralph Lauren Illusion Yoke Matte Jersey Gown at Nordstroms ($180 - a sleek simple long option with a nice price point to boot.)
Adrianna Pappell Lace Fit and Flare at Nordstroms ($178 - I love the see through detailing at the bottom.)
Adrianna Pappell Short Sleeve Sequin Mesh Gown ($278 - SPARKLES - this row is having non-black dresses because I'm stubborn and because of reasons.)
Colorblocked Blanche Dress at Kate Spade New York ($249 - a little whimsical but styled right it'd be great.)
Dalia MacPhee Strapless Pleated Ruffle Chiffon Gown ($298 - another repeat but that's because I'm in love with it.  The color and shape are gorgeous - though reviews say it runs large.)

Okay - the shoes here really depend on what you buy - but you could wear either of the shoes from above again with most of these.  Now - I know you said you had the brunch on lockdown (and I'm sure you do) but I came across a few casual dresses that would be great for it, so I thought I'd pass them along.
THE BRUNCH
Adrianna Pappell Embellished Jacquard Sheath Dress at Nordstroms ($138)
Colorblocked Ribbon Waist Sleeveless Dress at Ann Taylor Loft ($69.50)Petite Sleeveless Seamed Ponte Dress with Pockets at Land's End ($69 - want this one badly for myself.)

All of these would look great with a nude sandal or wedge pump and a white, beige, or contrasting color blazer or sweater.  Okay!  Hope this post helps.  Let me know what you end up buying - I'm sure you'll look glorious no matter what you choose.  Happy shopping and may the odds be ever in your favor.  Readers - do you have any recommendations for Reader LK?  Do you agree that NYC wedding means a black dress?  What colors do you like to wear to weddings?  Leave your thoughts in the comments!

EDITOR'S NOTE:  Have you entered our promotional contest yet?  Why not?  You should really do that now.  Like now.  Yes now.  GO DO IT.  (Okay - done now.)
 
Reader MJ submitted to my Tumblr and asked:

Hey--MJ from Corporette. I am looking for a white denim jean/pencil skirt which is on the longer side (e.g. not a miniskirt or short pencil skirt). Need size 14. Go! Love the new blog!

First, may I salute your brevity in question asking MJ.  Short, sweet, and to the point.  I'm assuming you probably mean something with an a-line cut or at least a not to tight pencil skirt (I find tight pencil skirt jean skirts to be wildly uncomfortable.)  I may also throw in a couple options in other casual fabrics (maybe a linen or cotton) just in case there are some great options in non-denim jeans.  All that being said - lets get to work!  (Oh - and thanks for reading the blog and the tumblr - I love all my readers!)
FDJ French Dressing Stretch Denim Skirt in white from Sierra Trading Company ($27.96 - I love the more relaxed cut and length on this and the stretch denim should be comfortable - but read the reviews, they aren't universally positive.)
Jag Jeans Maddock Pull-On White Denim Skirt at Zappos ($52 - I love this brand and this is a bit a-line, could be a winner.)
JNY Signature Denim Skirt at Jones New York ($59 - may be too pencil skirt for you, but its lovely.)
Eddie Bauer Slightly Curvy White Denim Skirt at Eddie Bauer ($49.95 - so, one hitch on this one or else it would be my first choice ever...the size 14 is sold out.  Reviews say it runs a bit large so you could try a 12 or, if you like it enough, you could buy the 16 and have it taken in.  Either way, this seems to be precisely what you're looking for!) 
Three Dots Red Women's Skirt in linen at Amazon ($80 - I know this isn't denim, but for the relaxed fit and length you like, it might be worth a look see.)
Alex Marie Lily Washable Skirt at Dillards ($89 - it is stretch twill, not denim, but the shape is beautiful and its machine washable - can't go wrong there.)
Essential Eyelet Skirt from Forever 21 ($19.80 - posting this because the pencil skirt looks more relaxed, no white skirt post is complete without an eyelet option, and the price is totally right ... especially if you think this is going to be a "sometimes wear" item.)
Stretch-Cotton Zipper Pencil Skirt at Lord & Taylor ($79 - I like the shape since its a more structured a-line and cotton is a great fabric for summer.  Might beat out denim in my book.)
Calvin Klein Tweed Pencil Skirt at Lord & Taylor ($89.50 - this is probably not ideal for you Reader MJ - but I'm posting it for my readers who might want a more business casual or networking appropriate pencil skirt.  I don't even mind the exposed zipper!  Tips for those of you looking for these items, Ann Taylor, the Limited, and WHBM have a bunch of other beautiful white pencil skirts right now if you want to add that item to your work wardrobe.)

Okay MJ....I hope these help.  Perhaps you'll think outside the denim box?  Though I think these denim options are kind of great.  I personally cannot purchase any of these because they would have coffee, tomato sauce, or some other destructive material on them by the end of the day.  So I salute you in your ability to wear white.  Go forth and shop dear reader.
 
So yesterday we did black and white, but today I'm going to do my personal favorite color combo from the last couple of seasons, black and gold.  The above dress, the Starlight Hearted Dress from ModCloth ($202.99) inspired the post.  I think its lovely and would be great for a New Year's party or an evening wedding...or for vacuuming around the house in heels.  But there are SO MANY great black and gold stuff out there right now - lets check some of it out, shall we?
I first fell in love with black and gold this past fall because of the most beautiful pair of black and gold Ralph Lauren Black Collection Mary Jane pumps I have ever seen - I saw them on Marion Cotillard in the August 2012 and I fell deeply and irretrievably in love with them.  But they were strictly out of budget then and now I can't find them anywhere on-line. Alas...the one's that got away.  But that doesn't mean we can't find some pretty alternatives.
Siger Morrison Leather Pointed Toe 'Betty' Crisscross Heels at Bluefly ($216.29)
Vince Camuto Hearty Metallic Cork Pumps at Dillards ($58.80 - lucky sizes only at this price - other sites have them for more.)
Elle dress heels in black and gold at Kohl's ($27.99 - derivative yes - but the price is right.)

Want some other black and gold ideas - what do you think of these? 
So - has black and gold worked its way into your wardrobe?  Or does it give you too many flashbacks to earlier eras?  Share your favorite black and gold items in the comments.