Metallic brocade corset top with crinkled lamé draped skirt

The top is a stiff metallic brocade printed in an abstract pattern of cobalt, silver and black, folded and seamed into a structured bodice with an angular neckline, a single strap over the left shoulder and a flat peplum that juts out over the hip. It fits like a corset without the boning. The skirt is crinkled lamé, cobalt at the waist shading to pewter and silver as it drapes and gathers across the front in a loose wrap.

It is an evening look for autumn and spring events, the kind where the fabric is the entire argument. Wear it with a plain pointed heel, no tights, hair down over the strapless side. The metallic surface does not need anything else near it.

The plaster heads had been in the room longer than I had. They still looked surprised.