For the recent DiverseWorks dinner featuring the outrageous director/author/artist John Waters, Connie McAllister wanted to wear "something inspired by the man — something this was unique, playful, and with a hint of drama (but the fun kind) like John Waters, although he definitely has more than a hint of drama."

So McAllister, the director of external affairs at the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, wore a vintage 1950s-era black organza cocktail dress with black velvet bow detail. "I actually got it at one of my favorite places for treasure hunting here in town – The Guild Shop," she said in an email.

She added a pair of Calvin Klein black snakeskin print pumps and vintage jewelry — an art deco silver and ruby swan ring with art deco rhinestone earrings, both bought at New York flea market, and a silver art deco bangle. To add a nice contrast to the all-black ensemble, she pulled her hair back with a large faux deep red rose from Michael’s, which she cut down to wear as a hair pin. It matched her deep red lips (courtesy of YSL rouge pur lipstick #96).

— CLIFFORD PUGH