The New Fashion Frontier

Road to Romance

Shades of days when women rode sidesaddle: This exquisitely fitted skirt, with its daring train and ruched bustle, is sexy in a ladylike way, while the blouse takes ruffles in a modern direction (Costello Tagliapietra, $1,600 and $890). A long, slim silhouette for evening is a sensuous idea—better still if you mix masculine and feminine elements. The delicacy of the shirt, earrings (Wendy Mink Jewelry), and peep-toe wedges (Nine West) plays well against the crisp gathers of the skirt. Jewelry (beads, Annika Salame for By Boe), a studded belt (Ariat), and one of Argentina's raffish gaucho hats complete the look.