Don't get stuck inside the box. "Semi-formal" allows for more than the little black dress (yawn).

That's a fair assertion. Little red dresses are perfectly lovely, as are little blue ones and classy chartreuse ones. Still, semi-formal calls out for a dress or a skirt, probably.

I only own two dresses - my Jessica Rabbit one and my French Maid's costume. I think it's time I buy something more appropriate and functional. I am not opposed to other colors either, and I want something that isn't "in the box".

My list so far is:

Nana Republic
Black House White Market
Macy's

Problem is they are so expensive :( I do not want to pay $100+ for a dress.

You can always get something plainer, and hopefully cheaper, and dress it up with different jewlrey or a sweater. That way you can get more use out of it.

The nice thing about buying a great LBD is that it will last you for YEARS. They tend to be more classic and will serve you long and hard. Same goes for little colored dresses - as long as they are not a print. Prints have a shorter shelf life. Not that you are not allowed to wear something unfashionable, but a classic LBD will last for years.

The other nice thing is that you can dress it up or down in many different ways. A LBD does not have to be boring at all. It depends on how creative you are wih your accessories. But, I'm a BIG basic classics and fun accessories.

There's always the Salvation Army. Never know what you'll find!

Ugg. Thanks for the reminder. I need to find something for our Christmas party. I'd LOVE to buy a little black dress, but differing sizes on top and bottom (by more than just a little) make that tough. Oh well, I'll probably end up with a black skirt I already own with a cute (hopefully) sparkly top.

My preferred method of dealing with the holiday party dress code is to skip the party entirely.

It's been a long time since I've worn a little black dress...

...but you know should you have to, you could whip that little number out of your closet and leave men faint at your path.