Without getting too deep, sometimes a fashion find seems to speak to you. It’s not just saying “buy me.” It’s saying “wear me and make me your own.” “Dare to step out of your comfort zone.” “Go ahead…strut your stuff.” And that’s exactly the inner dialogue this glam green velvet dress and I had. Well, that’s how I choose to remember it.

Greenery was the 2017 Pantone Color of the Year. Refreshing and inviting, it’s a life-affirming shade that’s emblematic of the pursuit of personal passions and vitality. Sounds good, right? And so what if it’s 2018! I’m still giving this figure-flattering velvet dress a green light — for many reasons.

I wanted to buy this dress the moment I saw it. But…the deep, bare back scared me off. Then I was at Refinery 29’s 29 Rooms and saw a gorgeous millennial wearing it. She looked smashing. And she was just rocking a bra strap in the back. Hmmm…not a look for me. But I remembered I had both a black and purple bra-let that offered fuller coverage in the back. I’m wearing black here, but I think the purple would be super fun, too! I truly believe the styling and silhouette of this dress would be flattering to any body type. First of all, it’s actually a stretch velvet, so you can really move in it. The bow-tied waist is just so feminine. And if you feel it’s too plunge-y in the front, a lacy camisole would solve that.  So…surprise…not…I made this green velvet dress mine after all. And I’m so glad I did.

For this look, and for many other occasions, a cozy teddy jacket is the perfect outerwear option. I love the cocoa color, lapels and pockets on this one. Not to mention it’s price! Can’t you just see it with your favorite white shirt, jeans and these booties? Hands down, this cute, cozy teddy jacket wins on versatility.

As far as accessories, I immediately reached for my absolute favorite Tory Burch bag that you’ve seen here, here and here. While I bought it on sale, it was still a splurge. But I have seriously taken this bag…everywhere! It is pure fashion magic. It’s long been sold out, but I’ve linked a few amazing options below. They may be a bit more expensive than you’re used to spending, but honestly, even if I’m wearing Target head-to-toe carrying a great bag always makes me feel like a million bucks. And who doesn’t love a conversation piece when you’re at a big event? This bag has served me well on that score, too.

Let’s talk about these faux snake booties! Love their overall high-fashion look and cool round heel. Again, I’ve already styled them in completely different looks — including with these cropped white jeans and this chunky sweater. This delicately layered, 18K gold-plated tassel necklace sparked with crystal accents is, well, wow. You can wear it as a choker or a longer necklace to switch up your your look. It’s part of the super Fall haul that’s all yours with the Rachel Zoe 2018 Fall Box of Style. There are so many other great fashion finds in this box that I definitely think you should check it out! And subscribe!

Dress: (Zara) Also love this and this.

Jacket: (H&M, sold out ) So many other teddy coats to love here (40% off with code BUNDLEUP!), here and here.

Boots: (Zara) Similar here (especially if you want a higher heel) and here (as seen in this post).

Bag: (Tory Burch, last year) But wow here, here and here.

Necklace: (Rachel Zoe Fall 208 Box of Style) Like this and this (25% off with code BUNDLEUP), too.

So last but not least, I have to mention our location, which was technically not in Gringo’s but on the street outside. I LOVE this place. It’s funky and cute and serves up awesome margaritas and delish Mexican food. Their outdoor space is just so fun. If you’re in JC, stop on by!

Photos by Kristin Moore-Gantz.