Wardrobe Must Have – The Printed Dress

 

Dress: Lane Bryant | Shoes: Nordstrom | Silpada Jewelry: Bracelet, Bracelet, Bracelet, Watch, Ring, Ring, Earrings

Happy Friday!

I’m heading out to a women’s tea/luncheon today and was excited to pull out this fabulous printed shirtdress dress. I usually go for a solid color dress (and you know how I love black) but it was great to be able to change things up a bit with a dress that has a beautiful pattern. This particular dress has a little swing to it, which also makes me feel girly. Patterns look great on sheaths but that silhouette doesn’t complement my pear body shape, so I opted for an A-line dress. I love soft florals, abstract designs, and something like this leopard print on light fabrics like chiffon. The point is to find a printed dress that you love and looks good on you. Why should everyone woman have a printed dress you may ask? Here are my top three reasons:

1. When you wear prints the eye is drawn to the pattern, so if you’re trying to hide or camo any troubled areas or wobbly bits, mission accomplished.

2. They’re a wonderful way to showcase your personality. Pick a print you love in the colors and variations that compliment you. A rule of thumb about pattern is portion and balance. YOU want to wear the dress, you don’t want the dress wearing you!

3. They’re versatile, a change a pace from your usual solid dress, and adds variety to your wardrobe. You can pair a printed dress with a solid cardigan or blazer and wear it to work, or a pair of strappy sandals for a night out.

If you don’t have a printed dress you love, take your time and try on plenty until you find the perfect dress for you. Believe me, you’ll be glad you did!

Have a GREAT weekend!

Live, laugh shine,

Carol 😉

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New Year’s Eve!

Coat: Lane Bryant | Dress: Boohoo | Shoes: Nordstroms | Jewelry: K&R Collection (here & here)

Photographer: Lydene Robertson | Makeup: Beauty by Meghan

I am always drawn to animal print and when I saw this coat I knew I had to have it. I wore it over my little black dress just to add a little spice to the outfit, but you can wear this coat with your favorite pair of jeans and boots. It’s surprisingly warm without being too heavy and is very roomy. The black body con dress from Boohoo is made from a light jersey knit that can be worn dressy or casual. I love clothes, and jewelry, that you can wear in multiple ways, which is why I love the versatility of this outfit. Tonight, I decided to dress it up for the occasion!

I can’t believe we’re saying goodbye to another year. 2014 has been such an exciting year for me. So many memorable events, milestones, and celebrations, but the biggest of all was turning 50! Wow! I hope your 2014 was a good one and I’m looking forward to the wonderful, exciting, and FABULOUS things that are awaiting us all in 2015!!  Have a peaceful, blessed, and joyous New Year everyone!!

Live, laugh, shine,

Carol 😉