Dress Shopping at DUGO

The experts at DUGO, a special occasion boutique in Edina, Minn., don’t want to stress you out, but they are already working with mothers of the bride and groom on fall 2024 weddings. That said, at least eight weeks is generally their rule of thumb to make sure there’s some buffer for alterations.

DUGO stands for “dress up, go out,” and owner Nancy Shanks has been outfitting women for decades. Her shop, which also offers ready-to-wear, is one of the very few in the Twin Cities that buys with women 50-plus in mind. She carries brands you won’t find at department stores—both established and up-and-comers—and offers custom orders when off-the-rack just won’t work.

Spring 2024 styles are already available, and more arrive daily at this time of year. Shanks says she’s getting requests for shades of green and pink, but navy continues to be a frontrunner—”It’s always sophisticated when black is not the answer.”

We stopped by recently with beauty expert Fatima Olive who, full disclosure, looks gorgeous in just about everything. Despite many floor length gowns on the racks, we found ourselves gravitating to tea length dresses, and separates! Here are a few highlights.

Lady in Red 

Classic cut; modern details, like pockets and subtle pleats. Red Jacquard tea length dress. ML Monique Lhuillier, $645

Floral Lace Overlay

Intricate and romantic. This dress would look lovely at a spring/summer cocktail occasion, but paired with a more casual sandal, it fits in for a daytime occasion as well. ML Monique Lhuillier, $595

Silver Separates 

The sequined racerback top and pleated A-line skirt are dressy enough to be mother of-worthy, but you could wear them separately again and again, which is exactly the philosophy of designer Emily Shalant. Top, $430; Skirt, $275