dress up files - a chicago fashion blog

Pumps w Ankle Straps

A pointy toe, a thick ankle strap, and a stiletto make for a pretty sexy shoe. I especially like the ones where the front portion ends with a clean straight line, as opposed to a predictable curve. I think these shoes are actually a lot more versatile than one might initially expect. I would pair it with a sleek evening gown to bring a modern edge to the look. I could also see them with skinny cargo pants and a vintage t-shirt, making the look go from casual to rock and roll instantly. Of course, you can also pair the shoes with any hot little dress you already own.

I really wanted the L.A.M.B. version in black suede but it was sold out everywhere. I settled on the wine croc-embossed version (pictured above) as some of you may have seen on Instagram. I decided to return them but kept checking online periodically and amazingly, I tracked down a pair of the black ones! It was the last pair and in my size (kismet!)

On Instagram and Facebook, I actually got a lot of feedback from people who didn't like the shoes but I decided I like them and that's all that matters. What do you think of this trend? Yay or Nay?

2012 Year In Review

I'm a little delayed in getting this post up but I'm a mom first and a Real Housewives addict second. Why is Beverly Hills, Atlanta, Miami (and now the Bachelor) all airing simultaneously....I can't keep up.

2012 has been such a memorable year. I started the year with a newborn, 20 lbs to lose and still reeling from the adjustment to 2 kids. Throughout the year, I fell helplessly in love with my chunky monkey D, I became comfortable at balancing life with 2 girls, and once in awhile, I even had time to get dolled up and post about fashion on this blog.

Thank you so much to those of you that still follow this blog and my journey. Please connect with me on instagram as I'm most active there.

All Saints Sweater Dress

All Saints Mill Pullover Dress

Originally ~~$175~~, Currently $122

These post holiday sales are so seductive, luring me in with their promises of free shipping and additional discounts. Just say no. Except maybe when it involves, oh just the perfect sweater dress like this one from All Saints.

I wore the dress to D's birthday party and have worn in several times since. So comfy and relaxed as in "Oh this old thing? Just threw it on without giving it so much as a thought." But then, there are those peekaboo exposed shoulders that add just that tiny hint of sexiness. Amazing what showing a teeny bit of skin can do!

These are unfortunately the best pics I can find of me wearing the dress. I added a chunky necklace and my classic black booties. Oh and my slip was too long and showing the whole time, which I failed to notice until I saw these pics weeks after the party. Don't try this at home people.

Featured: Dana's Party!

Dana's Party was recently featured on Kara's Party Ideas. There are some really incredible fetes on her blog and I'm so flattered that D's little party made the list. Thanks for the feature!