Polka Dots + Bows

It's still very snowy in Rochester, so I'm glad I had a chance to take these photos a few weeks back (during an unseasonably warm spell). This is the other dress I received from OUGES (you can find my review of another piece from them here), and it's so comfy and cute. Plus, it's much more versatile than a lot of the other dresses in my closet. I'm sure I'll be styling it in lots of other ways in the future, but for this post, I decided to go with a classic red.

Outfit Details

Sleeveless Patchwork Dress: c/o OUGES

Belt: similar  ||  Shoes: B.A.I.T. Footwear

Bow brooch: c/o Match Accessories

I'm so impatient for spring to arrive (and for the snow to melt). I want to wear all the florals and spend time outside! Is it already springy where you are? Living vicariously may be my only option for now. 

Have a great start to your week!

Black Dresses and Kitschy Bags

By now, most of you know that I love outfits that are filled with kitsch. I can't resist a good theme or novelty bag! But while my personal aesthetic tends to veer on costume-y, I realize that it's not always practical for everyday wear. However, I think today's outfit proves that you can incorporate kitschy elements into an otherwise classic & conservative look.

First, let's talk about this dress! When I first saw this OUGES dress on Amazon, I wasn't quite sure what it'd look like (or how it'd fit) in real life. However, the plethora of positive reviews and affordable price tag won me over, so I decided to try it out, along with another dress from their online store. Upon receiving them, I was so pleasantly surprised by the fit and quality. Due to the ample stretch of the material, I had more than enough room (I could have possibly sized down to a medium, rather than my normal large). It's definitely one of the more comfortable dresses I own! I really love the scalloped neckline, and the 3/4-length sleeves have come in handy during these cold winter days. It's a nice length too, which can also be a concern with certain dresses you find on Amazon. If you're looking for a cute and versatile LBD that fits in your budget, this one should definitely be a contender.

While I wouldn't normally wear such a plain dress with a purse like this, I think it does illustrate my point: that novelty purses – like one of the Vendula London unique bags I'm styling here – can work with all sorts of outfits. In fact, they often work better when they can be the star of the outfit, since the overall effect isn't overpowering. This diner purse gives the perfect pop to my outfit, and the details are amazing. I styled another Vendula London bag last spring for my Easter post, and the quality is always superb. I went with a smaller, cross-body style this time, and I absolutely love it. There's enough room for all the necessities but it's still the perfect going-out bag. Even the lining is adorable! I love this entire range of Vendula London creative bags, but all of their collections are so much fun.

Outfit Details

Scalloped black dress: c/o OUGES

Diner Box Bag: c/o Vendula London

Jivin' Jukebox brooch: c/o Erstwilder (available here)

Tights: similar  ||  Heels: Aerosoles

Also, the winner of my giveaway has been chosen! Congratulations to Kate R. and thanks to everyone who entered! You've made the last four years of blogging an absolute delight. Stay tuned for more giveaways in the coming months! <3

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