off the shoulder black maxi dress KADIE - Maxi length Velvi - Elena Off-the-shoulder Maxi

HALL, NBCOn an episode of '3rd Rock from the Sun' Kristen Johnston, far left, mixes prints in a plaid top tied at her waist and polka-dot skirt.PAUL DRINKWATER, NBCPlaying Mary Ruth on 'The Nanny,' Tracy Nelson looks modern in a layered, velvet look.SPIKE NANNARELLO, CBSFeatured Weekly Ad

Brown All-Weather Stretch Pants Brown all-weather pants offer both practicality and style, making them a versatile choice for any occasion

SPARKLY DRESS + BLAZER + TALL BOOTS Style Notes: This is such a great look for winter eventsand tall boots are the ideal party shoe for dreary cold nights

When an invite comes in the mail and the fine print reads black tie , it always gives me pause