I heart dresses.  And do you know why?  You always look like you put way more thought into your outfit than you did.

Today I decided to give "casual Friday" a different meaning.  I threw on a more or less VERY casual black jersey dress (more comfortable than most of my pyjamas!), a pair of warm, wooley thin knit tights and a dressy cardigan on top of it all.  It felt like Sunday morning in my housecoat!

A bit of jewelry, a hairband on my head and my most comfortable pumps and I had a really cosy day.  But I think I look like I spent some thought on my outfit (I didn't) or at least some time getting dressed (in and out in 20 Minutes today).

Note to self: don't take pictures in front of curtains that are the same color as your cardigan! :) 

The cardigan is great because it is made of silk and is very lightweight.  It also has huge real mother-of-pearl buttons which give it it's elegant look.  I got it in Canada at an overstock store called Winners.

 I love black because it always looks put together and elegant and pairing it with gold gives it  a polished, elegant look.  If you consider my whole outfit cost me about $80 including shoes and jewelry, that is pretty frugal!

• Black jersey dress (similar at SWAK Designs)
• Beige/Gold long cardigan (similar at Chadwick's)
• Black Belt with Gold Buckle (nice one at Target, it's called "Mossimo Supply Co. Belt With Two Inset Buckles")
• Low heeled black leather pumps (invest in these, keep them simple and timeless and the highest quality you can afford.  These are a wardrobe staple and should last you at least 10 years--think about CPW!!) (here's THE perfect pair at Zappos)