SHIRR THING!

AN ELEGANT GATHERING

A lovely way to disguise figure flaws, shirring, that delicate bunching of fabric, allows for movement in the garment. Comfortable and flattering? Sign me up!

This Spring/Summer season, Couture Carrie and her girls are delighted to see no shortage of shirring, starting with this Abaeté cut-in dress (at top left, available at Neiman Marcus). This little frock has a unique neckline, graphically accented with black trim. The elegantly shirred skirt boasts pockets that give it a casual vibe. Bold turquoise fits the trend toward brights this season and flatters a range of complexions.

Nicole Miller's scarlet stretch-silk dress (at right) is ruched on the bottom, with a shirred bodice and plunging deep V neckline. So sexy! Also at neimanmarcus.com.

This silver halter-neck Norma Kamali dress (at left, for purchase at revolveclothing.com) is shirred throughout, which makes for a cascading silhouette that is not only lovely but hides those pesky figure flaws -- not that we have any!!

Shoshanna’s shirred silk dress, in vibrant tangerine (at lower right), is just delicious for that summer barbecue or cocktails al fresco. Available at Neiman Marcus, this strapless frock is playful yet elegant, with a banded empire waist and bubble hem skirt.

And maybe you are all totally OVER the ombré trend by now, but I am still loving the look, captured swimmingly in Vince’s dip-dye shirred shift (at left, for purchase at Bergdorf Goodman). The halter neck and short skirt make it perfect for lunch on the veranda or a day wedding.

One thing is for shirr, darlings, we can all be comfortable and fashionable this season, with dresses that give us room to breathe while creating a figure-flattering silhouette!