Long-Sleeved Turtleneck Sweater Dress

|| Dress: J.Crew (available in multiple colors) || Coat: Josie by Natori (sold out, rent or purcahse a similar style) || Slides: Frances Valentine || Earrings: Kendra Scott || Necklace: Kendra Scott || Purse: kate spade new york (in black) || Ring: Tiffany & Co. || Photos: Melanie Foster Photography ||

This fall, I had a few slam-dunk purchases from J.Crew, one of them was the backless sweater dress that I shared on Tuesday on the blog. I must say, this long-sleeved turtleneck sweater dress gives me major heart eyes! Why? Because of the camel and black color combination (if this color combo is not your jam, it also comes in grey). Our entire life we are told that black and brown make a frown. Ladies, I am here to tell you that old rhyme is garbage! It is totally fine and acceptable to mix and match these colors together.  Think about it, look at tortoiseshell and leopard print. What colors are those patterns comprised of? That's right, black and brown!

Doing this for the first time can be intimidating. I recommend looking at your own closet and trying to make new outfits. A black dress with a leopard belt and boots is a safe place to start. Once you build up your confidence, you can begin to experiment with more daring pairings! I didn't learn this trick until college. Working retail taught me so much about personal style. I am so thankful for my time at Elizabeth's! I had this beautiful turtleneck short-sleeved dress that was kind of a micro mini (at that time my legs were very twig like). I would toss on some tights and black ankle booties and be ready for class, work or a sorority function. To be honest, I am so sad that I outgrew that dress. Isn't it funny how something so small, like a dress, can trigger back emotions and take you back in time?

This outfit is really put together with the help of the faux fur leopard topper jacket. This particular style is sold out, but I have found another version for you that is currently on sale. Can we just take a moment to talk about faux fur coats? They are all over the place right now! If you have been looking to add one to your coat collection, now would be the time. Most retailers are starting to make room for their spring collections. Therefore, fall and winter items are getting marked down. Some retailers even have their sale on sale!

Finally, let's talk accessories. I love this Kendra Scott pairing. I am so glad that I purchased this set in white pearl. You could pair this necklace with almost anything in your closet! This handbag is also very versatile. It is sold out in this camel color, but is available in black and it's on sale. You cannot see my shoes, but I am rocking some crazy slides from Frances Valentine, they are all black with a rabbit fur pom-pom. Currently, they have a pair of cheetah print with black pom-pom slides. Life is too short to be boring, have fun with your accessories!