Black Tie DIY: Phase 1

I wanted a more dramatic look for this year's black tie DIY (see last year's dress) and decided I would go with a fuller skirt, a print, and a bodice that would allow me to wear a regular undergarment (I feel like I'm constantly readjusting strapless bras) / feature a necklace of some sort.  After making a couple test bodices, I went with a simple one that seemed to fit my needs.  I was happily finishing up when my husband happened upon me and asked why my dress was skewing so "bridal."  I was about to protest  until I took a long look at my dress and realized he was right.  Epic FAIL.

The (inadvertently bridal) dress DIY

I added a tie at the back to dress up the simple bodice

So what do I do with this dress now?  I contemplated doing some kind of overlay, but ultimately, I think I'm just going to sew a different dress.  The rose dress will probably be a (very elaborate) Halloween dress - maybe the Queen of Hearts from Alice in Wonderland?  I seem to remember her having all the roses painted red in the cartoon.  I could then make E an Alice costume, V a Mad Hatter, and some yet to be named male character for my husband.  Ha, now I've roped in the whole family!

Phase 2 will consist of a new dress using this bold black / white paisley found at Fabrics R Us:

I might change the bodice in favor of something less plain.  Wish me luck!

What kinds of bodices / silhouettes are you drawn to for black tie occasions?