Inspiration Board: Maryse - LBDate Night

As soon as Maryse returned to WWE, I began calculating how soon I'd be using one of her looks for and Inspiration Board. I knew it couldn't be long :). She recently posted this throwback snap, released on her FrencKissMarse website as part of her House Of Maryse campaign. It occurred to me that this stunning look is perfect or date night! What else would you expect from the Sexist of the Sexy? ;)
Maryse's look is jaw-dropping and, possibly a bit frightening for anyone who isn't a Divine Goddess of Seduction like the blonde above. However, we can appropriate the principles that make this look work so brilliantly. First, the LBD. Maryse picked a deep plunge front bodycon in black leather. That look can be softened and made more accessible for the slightly-less-divine by going with a different fabric. Finely woven jersey will have a curve-hugging, slinky feel. It can be done, but I would lean more to a heavy jersey, a cotton knit with a bit of heft, or even a faille (a tightly woven ribbed fabric) that's more curve-kissing than hugging. It will give you the same effect, but with a little softer feel. But don't worry: the va-va-voom factor isn't being overlooked. The LBD you choose for this look requires one all-important factor: a V-neck. Pick your plunge - go as deep as Maryse, or choose a higher v that stops at mid breastbone. Choose a depth that makes you comfortable; the first step to sexiness is confidence! The second, critical piece of this look is your jewelry. Specifically, it's about the necklace you choose. You're looking for a bold, long style - a pendant or a lariat. Both are crazy hot right now, with tassel pendants being scalding. If you don't own either of the above, try using a long chain and knotting it, or feeding it through itself for a lariat effect. With the latter, you can even tuck the end inside the neckline of your dress ;). The importance of the necklace shape is that the long, slim style is what brings the seductiveness to the look by drawing the eye downwards; it's not trashy, but it makes. A. Statement. Clearly, boldly, coquettishly. Without saying a word ;). You can add statement earrings a la Maryse, or simple studs or none at all. Finish off the look with your fiercest back shoes: studded leather pumps, strappy booties, black lace, be-crystalled ankle straps. Lastly, wear or bring a jacket in case the night gets chilly - go attitudinal with a black leather piece, a touch softer with an open blazer. Keep the color palette simple: black, black, black. And no sweaters allowed ;)..not this time. Seriously...can you see Maryse in a cute little cardigan? My point exactly.