It’s.been.a.hell.of.a.month.  I am exhausted and I just don’t have the wherewithal for the traditional Thursday and Friday posts, so I decided to call it an early week and hope that removing a few things from my to-do list will help me recharge for next week.  So today, we have an early happy hour.  See you ladies Monday.

xoxo, Belle

Last week, a friend directed me to this adorable blog called Cookie and Kate.  After flipping through the pages for a bit, I found the recipe for a blood orange French 75, which combines gin, blood orange juice, Champagne and a hint of lemon to create a really crisp cocktail.  (I substituted vodka for the gin due to an allergy.)  I love the vibrant color and the slightly glamorous but uncomplicated ingredients.

I set the cocktail aside for future reference because I couldn’t find a dress to match.  But then, this evening, what to my wandering eyes did appear…

Halston Heritage Draped-back Georgette Gown ($645)

but this gorgeous coral gown with drama in the rear.

Okay, maybe I forced the rhyming, but come on?  Do you see the draping and the details on this gown?  Visions of sugar plums are dancing in my head.  (Okay, I’ll stop.  I promise.)

Anyway, I’ve talked before about how much I love a gown with drama in the back, so what about a few cocktail options that don’t break the bank?  After all, a low back lets you show some skin without overdoing it.

I found this to.die.for emerald lace drape back dress.  The modern cut of this BCBG halter could best be described as sharp.  This inexpensive ASOS dress has a strappy details and a not-too-sweet bow.  This combo dress from Tibi pulls no punches taking the plunge as far as it can go.  And last, but not least, this plus size dress is sophisticated and sleek, while this petite printed red dress is positively flirty.