This cocktail from Stir and Strain is called burnt sage, blackberry sangria.  The drink mixes flavors of blackberry, sage, black pepper, blood orange and lime.  It would be a great party drink, but if you need a Friday night cocktail. this recipe is designed to make two drinks.

Black Halo Kinsley Cobblestone-Crepe Sheath ($375)

My obsession with Black Halo is well-known.  This dress is a good illustration of why I love the brand so much.  The clean lines, the structure, the details–the dress is sublime.

If you’re looking for a less-expensive black and white cocktail dress, this MinkPink House of Cards dress is pretty sleek, and under-$100.  I also found this sleeveless dress with faux-leather accents.

Prefer something you could wear to work?  This Ellen Tracy dress is black and white with yellow mixed into the pattern.  This Club Monaco Rimone sheath dress is absolutely gorgeous.  And this Alloy colorblock sheath is a nice piece for $30.

Plus-size?  This Single dress is very pretty, and this Dynamic Dame cocktail dress is nice as well.  Petite?  This lace-accented Ellen Tracy dress would be nice for a cocktail party.