Did you know that Target does evening gowns? I just visited Target.com to look at a friend’s registry, when I decided to peruse their fashion section. It’s been a few years since I decided, finally, that it’s better to buy quality than quantity, but I’ve purchased a few good pieces from Target (when I really should have been buying things like laundry detergent). Anyway, besides having a few really cute items, I saw that there was a button for formal dresses. Curiosity got the better of me, and I clicked. I was pleasantly surprised to find this 1930s inspired, floor length, champagne colored silk gown by Isaac Mizrahi, for only $129. Of the customers who reviewed it, one even wore it was a bridal gown for her wedding! Hey, whatever works, right? I’m thinking of it more along the lines of being perfect for a night at the opera, or in black for a New Year’s Eve party…

Okay, so I’m not going to a black tie event every weekend or anything like that, but a girl has to be prepared for those occasional fancy outings with an evening gown or two (or three…or a dozen…), right? Nothing makes for a more impressive contrast from regular daywear than a long, flowing silhouette. This plum satin ruffle neck gown by Vera Wang features beautiful draping, a dramatic cut, and a unique neckline, which makes the dress more modern than many of its contemporaries. The color alone will stand out in a sea of black.

I’ve also got my eye on this playful, gorgeous gold number by AdamPlusEve that will instantly make any girl feel like a jewel.

And who doesn’t want to feel like a goddess every once in awhile? In winter white, chocolate, or black the Goddess gown by J.Crew is perfect for those spontaneous dress-up occasions ⎯ you know, for all those times when your boyfriend wants to go to the ballet or the opera.