Madelaine

Covered, then not.

Madelaine is for the woman who wants the ceremony and the party to look like two different evenings. Underneath, the dress is strapless: structured ivory satin with a cat-eye neckline. Over it goes a high-neck long-sleeved top of sheer tulle, embroidered with wavy lines of tiny beads and sequins. The sleeves end in fluted cuffs that fall over the hand. The top lifts away when the formal part is done. What is left is plain satin: a bare back with a single covered button at the top, a full skirt with a high front slit, and pockets in the side seams. A waterfall train opens out behind her.

Because she should be able to leave the formality at the door.