"I love attending a black-tie charity event," says evening, bridesmaid and ready-to-wear designer Monique Lhuillier. "It's so much better to gather a group of friends for a night out when you are all giving back to a great cause. Luckily between LA and NYC, there are always amazing events taking place."

Lhuillier's authority as a special occasions designer doesn't just come from her success on the red carpets and in the grandest ballrooms; it comes because she lives and breathes it.

In light of (like, seriously...metallic pastel light) her ultra-lovely summer collection, we asked her to tell us what makes the best evenings so magical.

Anything by Michael Jackson-he always gets people dancing.

With confidence! But logistically, it's best to be driven as it reduces the stress, especially if you are wearing a beautiful ball gown. You want to feel relaxed when you arrive at a function.

Veuve Clicquot Rosé

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