after i made my fall shopping list, i realized i forgot one important item – another cocktail dress.  i used to have exactly one cocktail dress in my closet, a black lace number that was a workhorse for me last year.  i wore it at every wedding and fancy event, and while it is lovely, i have been on the lookout for one more to add to the rotation.

although i kept an open mind on my search, my only specification for the dress was that it couldn’t be black.  as much as black dresses are a staples for city girls, i wanted something a bit different but just as useful.

i was at nordstorm rack buying a last minute tie for my boyfriend, and i spotted this number on the sale rack.  i tried it on, it fit like a dream without alterations, and i wore it to a wedding upstate that evening.

this is definitely one of those pieces that i love looking at in my closet.  the detailing is so lovely (and flattering!), and that shade of purple…