ILA THE BRAND

I like designers who started by dressing themselves, and Burcu Erguvan did exactly that before ILA existed. Her grandmother was a dressmaker, and you see that training in how these dresses are cut. Embellished lace minis, one shoulder satin maxis, halter gowns with high slits, sheer paneled chiffon and draped column dresses all hold the body without fuss. A black one shoulder mini is the dress I would buy first for weddings, birthdays and every holiday party. What I would skip is a heavy statement necklace; most of these already have the detail at the neckline.

The separates are where ILA gets playful. Hand beaded and appliqué corset tops, a sequined crop top, a lace up jacquard corset, an embellished tulle skirt, a bodysuit and voluminous trousers can be mixed with your own jeans or tailored trousers for a dinner look that is not a full gown. My trick is to pair a corset top with something plain and wide below so the waist is the focus.

Pick one dress for your next big night and one corset top for every dinner after it. ILA is made for women who like elegance with a bit of play, so let one piece shine and keep everything else simple. If you want to keep browsing, I also put together Cocktail Dresses for Evenings That Start at Six and Bridesmaid Dresses.