Make a statement with an unexpected color

Green may not be a hue you think of as a go-to color in your wardrobe, but this dress proves just how flattering it can be for the late summer and transition into fall! I recently wore this outfit to a friend’s birthday dinner and was surprised to find that the shade is one lots of people like, although they rarely try it. The color pops just enough to turn heads and feel summery, but also works well with other prints and colors from the fall palette. And because green is a popular holiday color, it can even work into winter (with tights underneath, of course!).

I wore this dress to a dinner party, but it works for pretty much any occasion – try it under a blazer for the office with tights, alone for a date night, or with a jean jacket and flats for your next weekend getaway. I can style it with neutral accessories during warmer months so the color stands out, then pair it with black shoes (or, in this case, leopard!) and a black trench for fall, once the weather cools down.

The silhouette looks amazing on everyone and the fact that it has sleeves leaves a strapless bra out of the equation. For me, that’s a huge plus, because wrangling a bra is the last thing I want to do when I’m out having a good time! Dress length is also important for creating a streamlined silhouette, and this one falls at a spot I love for a sexy night out, without revealing too much.

This dress happens to be by one of my all-time favorite dress designers, Eliza J, whose dresses are available at Nordstrom. Speaking of Nordstrom, they’ve really been upping their game lately in terms of new plus brands and designers, so definitely check out the Encore selection (aka plus) if it’s not already on your shopping radar.

I love that Eliza J dresses are always feminine and classic with a twist on current trends, which fits my style esthetic perfectly. Most dresses are available in regular and plus sizes, which is perfect for anyone whose size tends to fluctuate or if you’re looking for a wide size range for bridesmaid dresses. It’s such a smart idea for a brand to design for all bodies – I wish all designers would do this!