The Hunt: Brie/Maryse - Full Metal Jewelry (& Crystals ;))

Basically from the moment I saw both of these looks, my little mind started whirring away, trying to figure out how to recreate them. Brie and Maryse play on a similar these here: simple black dress, major statement-making baubletry. (Note: also can be done with a simple black cami+pants). Brie's look, in which the metal plates are actually built into the dress gets its je ne se quoi from the smooth, next-gen vibe of the unembellished metal. I actually think hers is the easier look to recreate though. My basic evil plan is to use a plate collar or choker necklace and a matching plate belt. the widths of the two items can be different, but the metal color should be essentially the same. ASOS has a fairly awesome selection of metal belts that make a great starting point for doing this look. Missguided has an economical metal choker in gold (as does BaubleBar at a slightly higher price point. Lele Sadoughi offers an heirloom piece) while ASOS carries the same piece in silver. This look could also be done with metallic leather, though the duller finish with cut the impact slightly. And now, Maryse :). There are very few body chains with this kind of layered drama out and about in the world atm, especially since DeMode does not have its online store open just yet (it's coming!). The best approximation seems to be this one from bebe (note: they have a nice metal plate collar with a circle drop on it on sale as well), unless you want to go the Etsy route (e.g. something like this. Don't forget to check shipping and return costs for items made outside the U.S.). If you can be happy foregoing the actual body chain, the main vibe of the look can be re-created similarly to Brie's: by pairing a statement crystal necklace and a crystal belt. Crystal necklace are to be had pretty much everywhere, from Forever 21 to Saks, and in every price range. Belts are a tad trickier and depend to a certain extent on the look you're going for. BCBG has a couple that work here. I also love this one, and this one on sale at Guess x Marciano. Check out the other belts there, as well, because there are a couple others that could definitely work. If you're up for a bit of fun (and a bit higher expenditure), check out BB Simon ( I love this piece!). I just recently bumped into this artist and oh my! - it is statement belt heaven :). So, one of these now has an official spot on my wish list :). You can get a similar look at a lower price point to you look for a crystal belt from companies that design for Western horse shows, such as this one. You might need to go with crystal on a black background, but since the plan is set it against an all-black outfit, that black leather will mostly disappear. If it feels too cowgirl, consider rotating the belt so that the buckle falls to the side or back, letting the crystal pattern be the focus. Yet another option is to go with a bridal sash, instead of a belt. There are beautiful pieces available at nice price points (like this piece from ASOS) and, frankly, why should brides have all the fun? ;) I have a bff who always says "life's too short not to have glitter". Preach, girl! The sash option will give you a pretty ribbon detail at the back as well (if you're a "don't do bows" kind of chick, try finishing the knot it with a single loop. Lastly, if you're in need of a creative project, give making your own piece a try. Flat-back Swarovski crystals hot glued on to a belt would give you a completely one-of-a-kind bit of bling.
Edit: also just saw this pretty silver collar at zappos.com that would def work for Brie's look!