After a month of hopping between Ghana and St. Barths, returning to New York felt like easing back into a rhythm that’s equal parts familiar and exhilarating. My first stop back on the social circuit? Brasserie Saint Marc, where I attended The Fizz Is Female reception—a sparkling celebration honoring Tawnya Faulker of Le Grand Courtage.
For me, Le Grand Courtage isn’t just another chic French wine brand. It’s woven into the fabric of my personal story. They graciously provided bottles of their crisp sparkling wine and rosé for our wedding—mini bottles included in the welcome baskets for our guests. Every sip carries a little nostalgia, a reminder of a day filled with love, laughter, and champagne toasts. So being there to honor a brand that has meant so much to me felt particularly special.
A Night to Sparkle
The setting was a dream. Brasserie Saint Marc transformed into a secret garden for the evening—lush, intimate, and just the right backdrop for a night celebrating all things effervescent. With glasses of bubbly in hand, guests nibbled on caviar and truffle burgers (because what pairs better with champagne than a little decadence?).
Naturally, the atmosphere demanded a look that was festive yet fashion-forward. For me, dressing up is half the fun of any event, and this one felt like the perfect excuse to channel a bit of Blair Waldorf energy from Gossip Girl—playful, maximalist, and just a touch dramatic.
The Outfit: An Old Favorite Restyled
I reached for a tried-and-true favorite: my ASOS textured mesh dress. If it looks familiar, that’s because it’s the very dress I wore to our city hall wedding back in January. It’s proven to be one of those rare, versatile pieces that transforms depending on how it’s styled. I wore it again to the Summer Water boat party earlier this year when the evenings were still cool, and it continues to surprise me with its adaptability.
The color I own is sadly sold out, but ASOS currently has this dress available in a rainbow of stunning hues and silhouettes. If you’re tempted, here’s a sizing tip: definitely size down at least one size. And if you’ve got smaller arms, you might even go down two. It’s one of those pieces that looks and feels far more luxurious than its price tag, which is always a win in my book.
The Accessories: Affordable Glam Meets Future Splurge
To keep the look fresh, I paired the dress with my new obsession: Schutz’s platform pumps. They’re a near-perfect dupe for the Valentino Tan-Go pumps I’ve been swooning over since last year. Platforms are having such a strong moment right now, and these give the same statuesque silhouette without the Valentino price tag. I’ve been road-testing this style to see how much wear I’ll get out of them, and if they continue to deliver, I may finally justify the splurge on the originals.
On my head? A bejeweled headband from Blair Eadie’s collaboration with Lele Sadoughi. Blair’s knack for playful yet polished accessories is unmatched, and this piece feels like a crown—just enough sparkle to turn heads, but not so much that it overwhelms.
For earrings, I chose a pair from Mestiza, one of my favorite brands for statement jewelry that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Together, the mix of sparkle, texture, and volume made the whole ensemble feel festive and full of personality.
Holiday Dressing Inspiration
While the evening was a celebration of women, champagne, and creativity, it also doubled as an early test run for holiday season dressing. The combination of jewel-toned textures, platform pumps, and standout accessories hit that sweet spot between timeless elegance and playful drama.
I can easily see this outfit—or variations of it—working beautifully for upcoming holiday parties. Swap the mesh dress for one of ASOS’s current colorways (imagine a deep emerald or rich burgundy), keep the platform pumps, and top it off with a statement headband or earrings. Voilà: instant festive chic without veering into cliché territory.
More Than Just an Outfit
What I loved most about the night wasn’t just the glamour, though that certainly didn’t hurt. It was the celebration of women behind the bubbles. The Fizz Is Female shines a spotlight on female entrepreneurs in the world of wine and champagne, an industry where women are still carving out their rightful place. Honoring Tawnya Faulker felt like honoring the joy, ambition, and creativity that women bring not only to business but also to the rituals we cherish—like raising a glass of sparkling wine at life’s biggest moments.
Final Thoughts
As I toasted with old friends and new, surrounded by laughter, bubbles, and more than a few fashion-forward looks, I was reminded of how much I love this city and its energy. Dressing up wasn’t just about making a statement; it was about celebrating a moment, honoring a story, and carrying forward a little sparkle into everyday life.
So here’s my takeaway: the next time you’re invited to a festive gathering—whether it’s a chic reception, a holiday soiree, or simply a dinner with friends—lean into the drama. Wear the dress you love, style it in new ways, add accessories that make you smile, and let yourself shine. After all, life is too short not to sparkle—preferably with a glass of champagne in hand.
