Color Matters

Some people shy away from color, but I love wearing dresses with bold prints -- and colors to match. This Donna Ricco dress featuring purple and metallic flowers is easy to wear and will work on so many body types. You can't go wrong with a fit and flare dress. Plus, I got such a good deal on RueLaLa.com!

Outfit Details

Dress: Donna Ricco Metallic Floral Fit and Flare Dress (no longer available)

I deliberately did not wear a lot of accessories so the dress could take center stage. I also chose a pair of sandals that had a bit of sparkle to them. It helps bring out the subtle silver metallic threads in the fabric.

Shoes: SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker Giddy Dress Sandals

Same But Different

Every once in a while, I will love a dress so much that I will get it in multiple iterations. Enter today's fantastic creation from Alice + Olivia.

I have a floral version of this dress, but I could not resist this elegant lace version featuring a velvet collar and tiered lace skirt. Isn't it beautiful? It's feminine, chic and totally me.

Dress: Alice + Olivia Ellis Lace Dress

I know it's a bit fancy for work, but I just wanted to wear it today! Soon, it will be too late in the season for velvet, anyway.

Shoes: Jimmy Choo Baxen Chain Fabric Peep-Toe Wedge Pumps

A Little Sunshine

If you're looking for a delicate, feminine look -- whether it's for work, brunch or a night out -- a lace dress is always a good option. I was drawn to this Trina Turk creation for a few reasons, but the yellow floral lace design tops the list.

Dress: Trina Trina Turk Arroyo Lace Dress

Find the dress at Amazon or Nordstrom Rack. The dress runs large, so I recommend you size down. I'm wearing a size two -- and it's too big on me!

Shoes: Jimmy Choo Lancer 85 Strappy Patent Leather Pumps in Nude

If you're looking to invest in a new pair of shoes, I highly recommend nude pumps or sandals. They go with everything and really help elongate the legs.

What is your go-to shoe? Leave a note in the comments!

Inspired

It's Monday and it's raining -- so of course I can't help thinking of that song, "Rainy Days and Mondays," by The Carpenters. I was actually introduced to this song via The X-Files. I have discovered so many great songs, new and old, from television and movies. I even have a whole playlist of 70s hits on Amazon Music that was inspired by Guardians of the Galaxy.

Where do you find sources of great music? Leave a comment and let me know.

Outfit Details

Dress: Shoshanna Monticello Sleeveless Floral Lace Dress

Today I'm in a Shoshanna sheath dress featuring vibrant blue hues and a high neck. I think this combination really works with my coloring and frame.

Shoes: Loeffler Randall Piper Wedge Scallop Sandals

I couldn't decide on a shoe for today's outfit, but I think these wedges actually enhance the colors in the floral lace pattern. The shoes don't match exactly, but that's fine; you don't want to get too matchy-matchy with accessories anyway (although I am guilty of doing that on a regular basis).

Pop Culture Update

It's been awhile since I updated my readers, all twelve of you, on what I'm reading and watching these days. Here's a quick rundown:

Watching:
This past weekend, my mom and I went to see Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella at The Fox Theatre in Atlanta. What a fun show. From the costumes to the music to the performances, I enjoyed every minute. I highly recommend you see it if it's coming to your town.

On Netflix, Chapin and I just finished Russian Doll. I think I enjoyed the show more than Chapin, but I love anything with time travel, and a day repeating over and over definitely has that sci-fi element. I would describe the show as a modern Groundhog Day with a morbid twist. Verdict: Recommend!

Reading:
I just finished two amazing books that I definitely think you should pick up:

The Beekeeper's Promise by Fiona Valpy: I don't normally like historical fiction, but this novel weaves between two women, one in World War II-era France and one in modern day France, and just pulls you in. You may cry, but I promise you'll love the story.

Unmarriageable by Soniah Kamal: I actually met the author, who lives in Atlanta, at a signing back in February. If you like Pride and Prejudice, you will love this modern retelling set in Pakistan.

Oh, and the reason I'm always reading two books at once: I read one on my Kindle while I'm on the elliptical and one in hardback before I go to sleep at night. It's my way of unplugging.

In the Spring of Things

It's starting to feel like Spring... finally! I'm celebrating the season in this floral dress from Ted Baker. I don't love all the pollen, but it's amazing to see all the trees and plants bursting into life. Spring is certainly a wondrous time of year.

Dress: Ted Baker London Daissie Floral Skater Dress

Buy it now at Amazon!

Shoes: Manolo Blahnik Didin Wrap-Around Leather Sandals

Seasons Change

Where did Spring go? Georgia always seems to be switching between two seasons. Saturday I was in short and today I'm back in Winter attire.

Today's dress, from Kate Spade New York, is in a beautiful navy shade and features a velvet bow at the waist. It would be the perfect dress to wear around the holidays. But since I just bought it -- for a great deal, of course! -- today will have to do. At least the weather is cooperating, as this dress definitely is more Winter than Spring.

As my husband said this morning, though: "I'm ready for it to be warm!" I agree!

Dress: Kate Spade New York Velvet Bow Fit and Flare Dress

I love the dress, and it even has pockets, but the darts at the bust are a little too defined for my taste. I adore the feminine details, though; in addition to the bow, the ruffles around the edges are just adorable.

Shoes: SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker Buckingham Satin Ankle-Tie Sandals

In other news, I am excited to report that I earned a first place award this past weekend in the Topgolf 5K Run -- it's my first! I placed fourth out of all female runners, and was first in my age group. I also took the top honor in the Overall Masters Female category. (I guess "master" is a nice way of saying you're old!) My time was 22 minutes, 44 seconds, with an average page of 7:21 per mile. I don't normally go that fast, but I pushed myself -- and it paid off!