Buttoned Up

My style isn't ultra conservative, but it is definitely feminine and fun, and that's probably why I fell in love with this velvet bow tie shirt dress from Alice + Olivia. It's professional but still sexy, showing a little leg through the multiple slits in the skirt. I also think the cap sleeves and small bow tie are sweet little touches on what is overall a very simple LBD (little black dress).

The bow tie is even removable if you're not in the mood for it!

Outfit Details

Dress: Alice + Olivia Black Carie Velvet Bow Collar Shirt Dress

Alice + Olivia is one brand where I'm often between sizes, so I decided to size up for this particular dress. (I just never know how something that is snug in the hips will fit me.) I think I chose wisely, although the dress did feel a little big.

I often feel like Alice + Olivia dresses are designed for tall women with tiny busts -- so not me -- so be sure to try on a piece from the Alice + Olivia line if you're really not sure about your size. For reference, I am normally a size 4 in Alice + Olivia, but I went with a size 6 here.

You can find Alice + Olivia in major department stores like Nordstrom, Saks, Bloomingdale's, and Neiman Marcus, and this particular dress is still available online at the following retailers:

• Alice + Olivia Website (on sale for under $100 -- originally $395)
• Farfetch Online Store
• Neiman Marcus (in pink instead of black -- super cute if you like this color)
• Saks

I decided to keep the bow tie theme going with these Prada sandals.

Shoes: Prada Bow Tie Platform Sandals (no longer available)

Hollywood Loves the Dress

The dress has been worn on two TV shows: The Vampire Diaries and Elementary.

Of course, I don't watch either of these shows, but I did see the reference on one of my favorite fashion sites, WornonTV.net. It is a source of great inspiration for me.