tuxedo

When our evening style sensibilities crave something a little more snappy, we look to the tuxedo. Tuxedo looks dominated the Fall runways at Jason Wu, Tibi, Dolce & Gabbana, and Moschino, then on sharply dressed celebs like Olivia Palermo and Evan Rachel Wood. Not that the tux is new on the scene; we owe it to greats like Marlene Dietrich for making the menswear evening staple a glamorously cool option for us girls. With holiday season approaching, and with it, a bevy of parties, we totally plan on utilizing the look via slim black trousers, tailored suit jackets (leather lapels optional), and blouses with crisp contrast piping. If we're feeling particularly snazzy we'll finish the look with a playful bow tie and a classic pair of heels to counter all the boyish charm.

Clockwise from top left: Marlene Dietrich, Jason Wu Fall 2011 runway, Mason Margiela 4 Tie ($75, originally $98), Olivia Palermo, Topshop PU Trim Ankle Grazer Trousers ($80), Equipment Bret Colorblock Blouse ($208), Gap Suede Bow Pumps ($80), Marwood Lace Bow Tie ($141), Tibi Black Tuxedo Jacket With Leather Trim ($505)

Rachel McAdams and Eva Herzigova went the tuxedo route for recent red carpet events, and each had a unique take. Rachel went for a cute, slightly retro look in her Azzaro jumpsuit, while Eva when for a sexier look and lots of leg via her short Dolce and Gabbana tuxedo and red stiletto heels. If you want to wear a moderate version of the tux look, try a slinky tank under a tux jacket and skinny black pants or shorts. We found some chic tuxedo options for you to try, just click our widget to shop.

Donning a doggone bowtie is a quick way to be fashionable (like for a wedding), but what about something a little more involved but a little less formal?

Instead, make a pet stand out with this Juicy Tuxedo Tee ($40) in five sizes. For dogs that wear collars that would interfere or ones that hate anything on their necks period, this shirt doesn't restrict airways and is a sweetly dressed-down dress-up idea for the lil dogs (just like tie-appliqued tees are great for the lil kiddos). Its sewn on bow adds flair and cut out tails create a fake jacket back but still show off his wagging tail. Would your pups wag away at this concept?

With his Target Go International collection, Zac Posen aims to please young girls of all sartorial leanings by designing flirty party dresses and sleek tuxedos for under $100. The thoughtful lineup — one standout cocktail dress features detachable ruffles and can be worn multiple ways — is 100 percent Posen at affordable price points.

In his quest to keep the collection relevant, the New York-based designer charted new territory with the mass retailer by giving an alternative evening wear choice to its young shoppers — a menswear-style tuxedo.

“Lesbian proms have been such a big thing in the news lately,” Posen said of the decision to feature the YSL-esque tux. “Rather than create a fake subculture, I wanted to address things that are actually happening. It’s a kick-ass girl who can wear a tuxedo to prom! Don’t be afraid of drama.”