Playgrounds & Lollipops - Orange Crush

 *I'm linking this post up for Pretty Shiny Sparkly's Bloggers Do It Better assignment Neon + Neutral.  When I received the assignment, I knew this outfit I had previewed a few weeks ago would be spot on, so instead of boring you all with another post on this orange skirt, I thought I'd just link this one up.  Who knew I was on trend when I paired the bright neon orange skirt with gray?  I was just a mom trying to stretch my buck and make the most out of a non-functional, albeit cute skirt.  After all, there's not much use for a neon orange mini skirt in my life on a day-to-day basis.  Looking back, if I had to do it all over again I'd lose the gold sandals and add more arm bling.  The ever so slight tan I'm sporting on my legs would also help this outfit out a bit ;)

When I initially chose this skirt as my birthday outfit, I was a little hesitant because I wasn't sure how much use I'd get out of it outside of a party atmosphere.  But I was determined and steadfast to get more use out of this fun little item, so I flexed my styling muscles to make it go from sexy to playful.  And yes, I realize how ridiculous it sounds to be "determined and steadfast" in anything related to fashion.  ;)

Miranda and I went to see Water For Elephants last night and I knew she'd appreciate this little outfit because a) she loves orange and b) she loves orange.  Girlfriend did not disappoint, and got dressed up for our date as well, wearing this cute maxi skirt from the Calypso for Target line.  You should have seen the two of us.  We were like a walking bag of Skittles with all that color!

The verdict?  Both the movie and the outfit received two thumbs up.  I hadn't read the book so it was nice to see a happy ending, as I kept imagining a horribly sad ending all throughout the movie.  I think I've become a pessimist after reading too many Nicholas Sparks and Jodi Picoult books.  Reese was magnificent and Rob was well, much more attractive as a vet than a vampire.  It was kind of fun seeing a movie based off a book when I hadn't read the book.  I always find that movies never do the book justice you know?  Has anyone seen it?  What did you think of it?  And by the way, the only thing not receiving two thumbs up is a yucky cold sore again, which is preventing me from smiling too big or looking straight at the camera.  I promise I wasn't trying to give off a snotty fashion blogger vibe :)

{Outfit details: Sweater & Tank - James Perse; Skirt - Zara; Shoes - Calvin Klein from Marshall's; Zipper Pouch - American Apparel; Necklace - lima bean from Tiffany's, maid of honor gift from my sister}