Special Occasion -- Ally

Holiday and end-of-year parties are in full swing for both Al and I and I managed to be wholly unprepared for them all. I was invited to an industry event (they called it a "gala") at the last minute so I was scrambling for something appropriate to wear to this black tie optional event.

Fortunately most folks don't wear formal wear, so I was safe wearing this dress. I dressed it up with pearls and more make up than usual. Several women were complimenting my cardigan and I'd just smile and say thanks. Finally I told one woman (whom I know professionally) my secret: It's a cheap Target cardi with a pearl pin. Nothing fancy :)

Dress: No idea the brand. Got it at Sears back in the spring

Cardi: Target

Tights: Walmart

Shoes: Steve Madden

Jewelry: Gifts, Shane Co, Walmart, Brighton


You'll have to excuse how flushed I am. I took this after we got home and I had enjoyed a couple glasses of wine at dinner.






Since it was below freezing, this called for two pairs of tights. I layered my black tights over my gray ones and not only was it extraordinarily warm, but it made the black tights blacker and look less cheap. You know, b/c they are cheap :)

I wore this dress back in May to the Oaks with Leslie, Jamie, and Kim. It was a much warmer (and rainier) day so no cardi or tights were required. I also wore a fabulous hat that day! Despite getting soaked to the core that day, we had a blast!

















Close up of jewelry and pin:



















I've worn all these pearls together before and really like the look. It's about the only time I wear some of the pieces (smaller pearl strand necklace/bracelet and Brighton bracelet). The others I wear more often (Michelle Obama pearls, ADPi silver bracelet)