dress: T. Babaton via Aritzia; jacket: Wilfred via Aritzia; shoes: Coach; bag: Rebecca Minkoff; chains: TopShop

My fourth grade teacher used to tell us that a fake smile couldn’t help but turn into a genuine one. It always sounded ludicrous but was proven true time and time again as we plastered cheesy grins on our faces and found that they would soften into real smiles. (If you’ve never tried this before, do it now while no one is looking….see?… didn’t I tell you?!) The same effect holds for clothes.

A difficult week filled with its share of trials and tribulations can be left behind with a fantastic ensemble that uplifts the wearer with confidence and joie de vivre. Today I find that extra pep in my step with a enchanting silk dress, strong jacket, flirty heels and splash of bright red lipstick (it’s amazing how a strong lip can resurrect even the toughest day). There may be some doubters out there that view this as superficial but as the feelings are deep, I would argue the effect is as real as the genuine smile that follows a forced grin.

Now that I look fit for a night in the city, do you think one of these pumpkins will turn into a stagecoach to take me on my merry way?! Perhaps a fairy godmother is needed for that, but sometimes we have to be our own instigators of change. What sartorial items do you turn to when you want to bring a little more awesomeness into your life?!

Before I close, I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude. My blog passed the 6 month mark this past week and it only seemed right to say an enormous THANK YOU to all of you who take the time out of your day to read these posts. It means so much to me and I hope I’m successfully sharing the joy and fun that style brings into my life. HAPPY FRIDAY!!