modgrl, I'm looking for a casual dress or two, mostly for MOTG weekend wear, though once I get comfortable enough I might brave wearing it to work as well. My workplace is casual so no concerns there. (The only reason I don't wear dresses or skirts to work is because I work with 95% men and they all act like 12 yr olds and think it's hillarious that I'm wearing a dress and I don't hear the end of it, at least the few times I have worn a dress to work in the past.) Also, I'd like to be able to wear the dress with my new boots (Veronica slouch). I don't shy away from color but I don't generally like pastels. I'd like to get at least one black/gray dress and one print. Also, since it's winter I'd prefer it at least be short sleeve. Sleeveless also tends to look funny on me but I can always throw a sweater on top. I wish I could describe my style, but I don't think I've defined it yet. Grown-up punk rocker maybe? LOL. I pretty much live in bootcut jeans and t-shirts, alternating between Blundstones and a girlier shoe, minimal accessories (wedding ring, stud earrings) and no makeup. I'm rather bored with this routine and would like to add more interesting clothing to my repertoire. Also I'm 36 and would like to start looking a bit more refined rather than dressing the same as I did as a grad student. Thanks for asking the right questions to have me work through this therapy session.
As for the dress you linked to, I absolutely adore animal print, but in lesser quantities. Other than that, I do like the cut of that dress. In the past Tahari was always a go-to brand, but at my current size their stuff just doesn't fit quite right.
Edited to add: I just mentally scanned my wardrobe and realized it is devoid of prints. I can think of one patterned dress, and one striped shirt. I make up for it with texture though. Ruffles, chunky knits, pleated details, pointelle, etc. Interesting. I didn't even realize this about myself.
