Madame X

The woman in this painting was a young socialite named Virginie Amélie Avegno Gautreau.  As an American expatriate married to a French Banker she became notorious in Paris for her beauty and rumored infidelities.  She wore lavender powder and prided herself on her appearance. (How scandalous!)  In this portrait John Singer Sargent, the artist, wanted to create a study in opposition - her pale skin against the dark dress.  He painted her as a woman posing ostentatiously in a black satin dress with jeweled straps, a dress that reveals and hides at the same time. 

Madame X has a certain je ne sais quoi. She is sexy in an overt yet very demure manner. To emulate her style you must choose a classic silhouette with an unexpected element that creates a vulnerability accented by sensual beauty. I prefer giving a classic style a hint of glamor through accessories like the fur and feather wrap or simply letting the dress speak for itself just as this long lacey number does.

1. Stella McCartney Lace Gown, $2,995
2. Feather Clutch Bag, $56 

3. Maison Martin Margiela Wrap, $1,000

4. Balenciaga Bow Back Dress, $2,150

5. Badgley Mischka Pump, $200
Madame X (Madame Pierre Gautreau), John Singer Sargent