Playgrounds & Lollipops - Something Special

{Dress: Anthropologie; Necklace: Juicy Couture; Shoes: Sam Edelman; Watch: Michael Kors}

A piece of clothing usually has to offer something special for me to actually make the purchase.  Whether it's the unexpected color of a short, the detailing on a cardigan, or even the little cuff at the bottom of a pant, there has to be something about it that makes it just 'different'.  Of course I didn't always have this expectation, it's something I've developed just recently in the last 2 years I'd say, but it's allowed me to really and truly love anything I've added to my closet.  I can honestly say that 99% of the things I've purchased in the last couple of years, I have no regrets about.

This dress, "the dress" as some of my friends call it, is no exception.  The print is bold yet somehow still manages to be soft, the ruffled bottom hem that adds extra twirl, and the waist detail is my favorite by far.  Belted, nipped in and with hidden on seam pockets, yes pockets!  I've had this dress for over 2 years now and have worn it to baby showers, wedding showers, mother's day brunch, my daughter's birthday party, book signings to meet famous bloggers, and to concerts at the Hollywood Bowl.  There's just about nothing this dress can't do.

Yes, this dress is bold and makes a statement, which usually means people won't forget it and friends have seen me wear it over and over again.  That used to really bother me and I used to think I had to have something new for anything.  In my twenties I would think a night out to dinner required a new blouse or a fun dress.  Then the reality of a mortgage, 2 kids and 1 income sets in and you let that stuff go...you have to let it go.  But believe me, if you love what you're wearing it makes it a whole heck of a lot easier.  So the next time you're adding something special like a dress to your wardrobe, keep an eye out for the details.  What makes it unique and special?  If you start with that requirement in mind first, you may just end up with something you'll love for years to come. 

*Thank you all for your excitement and suggestions for the new blog name!  I've been twirling it around all night and as much as I want to come up with something totally snazzy and different, I also am starting to think that associating it with the current name to some extent might be the best route.  Ah, blogger problems ;)  I'll make up my mind soon though!  Until then, any new ideas, please let me know!

Linking up with Lindsey for WIWW!