Florals are a classic for spring and summer, but with a darker palette the print can work across seasons. I added this tea-length dress to my Gwynnie Bee closet as soon as I saw it in New Arrivals.  The fit is great, if a smidge long on my 5’4″ frame.  This is definitely an occasion dress, as it feels a bit too fancy for every day wear (though it would make for quite a glamorous picnic date).

I ended up wearing it to my goddaughter’s birthday party, which was Disney Descendants-themed. Having no idea what that meant, I decided I would go as Belle’s daughter (the smart brunette princess was a childhood favorite of mine), but was promptly re-designated as Maleficient by the birthday girl upon arrival 🙂

I wore comfortable flats for all the running around and playing a kid’s party entails, but this dress would be even more festive for a summer wedding or garden party with wedges.  The black background and multicolor motif gives you a wide variety of possible shoe pairings – go for a classic neutral ankle strap or a pop of coordinating color in a vintagey pump.

To transition this dress into cooler temps (like we had on the cold May day I wore it), pair it with a short moto jacket in black, orange, or even blush.

Dress: City Chic (via Gwynnie Bee)

Moto jacket: BB Dakota via Gwynnie Bee (0ld)

Flats: Bamboo (old)