J. Crew top, J. Crew Factory skirt, Old Navy cardigan, Cole Haan Heels, Motives ‘I’m Peachy’ Nail Polish

When I was about 4, I had a white skirt with yellow polka dots that I wore incessantly. My mom was constantly forced to wash it. I’ve loved skirts ever since, but if you’d asked me a couple months ago if I ever thought I’d buy another mini skirt, I would have laughed and replied with a resounding “No!” As you can see, all bets were off when I laid eyes on the abbreviated shape of this skirt in its appealing citrus hue, aptly named Retro Lemon. It’s powerful what color can do for your outlook and mood. And so with the first days of spring upon us, I say let’s toast to bright colors, new beginnings, and a renewed commitment to “never say never.”

Zara top, Asos pants, Gap flats, BCBG bag, Target sunnies

With a moving date staring me in the face, deadlines at work, and a memorable 10 year high school reunion weekend that caught up with me during the early part of this week, I wanted to look pulled together for a meeting without being fussy. For me, it has always been true that when big changes are on the horizon and the day-to-day becomes a blur, relying on basic color combos like black & white can take the guess work out of getting dressed. And of course, a stop at Chick-Fil-A for lunch and to snap some photos never hurts, either!

Dress: American Eagle (available in stores) | Nail Polish: Motives ‘Tonic’ | Heels: Target (old) Metallic Option Here

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in the past few months, it’s that sunrise speaks to the contours of the heart where hope & joy reside. Even when those contours get bruised or when doubt creeps in, a sunrise can banish all the unwanted and usher in more good than previously possible. When I wear this dress, I am reminded of the blush hues of dawn. The morning these shots were taken was bright & clear and though it was just past sunrise, I couldn’t help but be gladdened by the warmth of the Florida sun and take comfort in knowing that it shines daily, without fail, on us all.

Just a few days ago, I shared this post featuring a stroll through downtown Boca Raton wearing this very same cobalt blazer from Forever 21. Coincidentally, I came across Agi’s blog, Vodka Infused Lemonade, where today she is showcasing a variety of different ways to wear this eye-popping color. Stop by and check it out here! And please do leave a comment here on how you incorporate cobalt into your wardrobe or your home! You can see my additional cobalt pics in the collage below.

1. Capri Blue Jar Candle
2. Floral Skinnies
3. Pencil Skirt
4. Converse