Yellow is such a happy colour, isn’t it? Not all yellows are particularly flattering to my skin tone, but this warm, sunshine-y shade isn’t too cruel. I added my new sparkly necklace from J. Crew Factory (a gift from the mister — thanks again, honey!) for a bit of contrast … and to satisfy the inner magpie.

I was going to wear my usual, boring black boots, but the day promised to be as sunny as my outfit, so I made a last minute switcheroo. Leopard print pumps with plaid? It made sense at the time, ok? In retrospect, maybe I should have kept things safe with black flats. Oh well. There’s always next time — an outfit this cute is due for a repeat, methinks.

I was all set to purge this dress from my closet last year, but then I had second thoughts — as I am wont to do — and decided to keep it … just in case. Well, my instinct has paid off; this Zara peplum blazer I got from the last clothing swap is its perfect mate. I loved this outfit, and I can see it having a long and happy future.

The print of the dress is almost too busy for accessories, but I added this vintage pendant at the last minute, and I’m glad I did. It kinda goes with the print, doesn’t it? Since the pendant was a travel souvenir, I always enjoy the opportunity to wear, and reminisce briefly. Anyone else do that?

Finally, and completely unrelated, a rant: why is it almost impossible to find a decent pair of navy pumps? I’ve been looking for over a year, and no luck. I just don’t understand. Navy pumps and dress pants that fit are my shopping unicorns, it seems.

Technically, both the jacket and skirt are old Anthro pieces (circa 2010, I think) but the former has been in my closet for years and the latter is new-to-me thanks to VV. They go quite well together, no? If it hasn’t become painfully obvious already, I’m having something of a renewed love affair with Anthropologie, especially its older styles. I’ve been increasingly drawn to the more unique details (like the hidden sequins in this skirt, or the architectural ruffles of the jacket) and the whimsy of pieces like these. I’m not sure what that says about my current frame of mind (midlife crisis, part deux?) or what it means for the direction of my style, but I’ve decided to go with the flow — the heart wanting what it wants, etc. — and not over-analyze it. Say quoi?? I know, that doesn’t sound like me at all. It must be love. Anyone else experimenting with some new (or old) styles?