Best of 2003: Best Mother-Daughter Duds

April Cornell
1000 Prospect Avenue, La Jolla
858-454-1980
7007 Friars Road, Fashion Valley Center
619-298-8482
www.aprilcornell.com

Start with the fabrics: crinkled crepe, brocade, crepe de chine, damask, Fuji silk, georgette, jacquard, panne velvet, and sand- and snow-washed silks. Examine the colors, fabric patterns, and detailing such as embroidery and ribbons. Toss in a pinafore for your daughter's dress. Then treat yourself to a dress that has more elegant styling, but in a matching or complementary fabric. Toddlers' and girls' dresses range from $40 to $60. Women's dresses average about $90. The stores have sales, but you're less likely to make a match with the diminished inventory.