The necklace that saved New Year's Eve

December 31, 2010

Shirt: Forever 21
Dress: a 3 + 1 (Sloan Boutique, Portland)
Belt: Forever 21
Necklace: Clyde’s Rebirth
Shoes: Dolce Vita (Urban Outfitters)

I’ve spent way more New Year’s Eves at home with my boyfriend and in bed before midnight than I’d like to admit. While I love the sense of renewal that comes with a New Year, I’ve grown to hate the pressure of making New Year’s Eve plans. This year was a little different though; small town life really doesn’t offer too many options for nighttime activities so there wasn’t much to stress about. Where I spent the evening didn’t really matter much to me anyhow as I knew I’d be in good company. Erin was in town (for a week that went by too quickly), and anytime I get to hang out with my boyfriend and best friend, I know I’m in for a good time.

Finding a New Year’s Eve look was a bit more challenging than past years (maybe because sweats weren’t an option this year). I had visions of something sparkly but was disappointed to find not one glimmer while searching my closet a few days before New Year’s Eve. I decided to leave the outfit as a last minute decision…and then I opened the Clyde’s Rebirth package that my pack mule Erin brought along with her. Remember how I won that giveaway waaaaaaaay back in October? Fearing that my winnings wouldn’t actually make it to me, I had them sent to Erin and have been (impatiently) waiting ever since. When I opened the beautifully wrapped package and saw this stunning choker, I knew at least one thing I’d be wearing on New Year’s Eve. Starting with this necklace really didn’t help me decide on clothes, which is exactly why I selected this particular necklace after winning the giveaway: I can wear it with anything. It is so incredibly versatile; I’ve only begun to play with all the ways I can wear it.

One of the ways I’ve found to stretch my closet is by wearing dresses as skirts. I realize this isn’t anything new to all of you creative ladies who remix with such ease, but it is something I never did while living in Portland. The ruffled bottom and fitted bodice of this pixelated floral dress were perfect for layering, and while I tried to resist wearing this lacey t-shirt again, I couldn’t help myself. The loose fit was exactly what I was looking for and the neckline was perfect for showing off my new favorite necklace. Later on I threw on my military jacket and changed into gold flats before heading out for an evening of margaritas, giant sparklers, and laughs galore!