Find of the Day: The Velvet Mini ($25)

I am super DUPER excited to tell you guys about my latest purchase! This fabulous minidress from ASOS is everything and more.  It fits me like a glove and flatters my body in the best way possible. Although it's only $25, the velvet doesn't look cheap at all - it could easily pass as "designer" IMO.  I actually bought it in purple first but returned it the second I found it in blush - I liked the color better AND it was cheaper...only by a few dollars, but still! Ha.

If you're looking for a sexy dress that slays, I highly recommend purchasing this!  It's comfortable yet figure flattering which is (obviously) ideal.  It cinches the small of your waist, exaggerating your curves and elongating your stems, while the draped bottom gives you extra breathing room.  This piece is perfect for a fancy date, a night out with friends or even holiday parties.

I accessorized this number with a dainty gold choker and carried a mini-evening bag to match!  Both pieces are from Charming Charlie, andddddd speaking of CC, I actually blogged about them on here a while back - the article was called, "Where to Buy Kate Spade Lookalike Bags for Less," in case you missed it.

Now, I know today's find is all about my new dress, but I gotta mention my shoes as well because I purchased them along with my mini.  If you're a fan of metallics like me, you're def. gonna want to purchase a pair since they're still available online for $15 (!!!!) They were originally $61 so scoop 'em up while you still can.  

 Dress:  ASOS ($25) || Bag:  Charming Charlie || Shoes:  ASOS ($15) || Necklace:  Charming Charlie

Photos shot by the incredible Sung Shin.

How-to Pull Off Plunging Necklines with Class

This is the 2nd wedding I've gone to this month - 'tis the season for 'em I skapose!  I forgot to take OOTD shots for the first one, BUT I took this with my fab photographer Sung Shin a while back because I had already decided this would be my look at some point, ha.  I discovered this gem online while browsing ASOS and couldn't resist - not my most sensible purchase but embellished mesh and 3D detailing?  ...you can't expect me to pass that up! Anywho, I won't bore you any longer with my elaborate shopping excuses.  Let's move on to the heart of today's topic: plunging necklines and how to pull them off.  

First off, you need to wear the right undergarments.  A u-plunge bra works beautifully most of the time (love this one from Bare Necessities), but this baby has a plunge back as well so I had to wear nipple covers.  I don't really have a large chest so I didn't have to tape anything in place, but if you need the extra support, definitely make sure to do so!  On the other hand, if you have a small chest and want to create extra cleavage, tape can come in handy.  The Ultimate Bra Guide's post to Taping Breasts is super informative so clicky if you want to read more!

Now, I'm definitely not afraid to show skin, but plunging necklines still kind of intimidate me because I find them somewhat scandalous.  I know that's my inner goodie two shoes speaking, but whatever, it is what it is! Luckily, I know how to wear 'em and still look "classy."  Sidebar: For the record, I am NOT judging other women for the way they dress - this is just personal preference.  You should wear whatever you want, whenever you want!  As long as you feel comfortable and confident, you will look like a total rockstar.

Anywho, it's all about balance in my opinion.  Take this dress for example, it has a plunging neckline but the a-line skirt hits me below the knees = beautiful yet modest-ish.  If it was tight and short, it would've been a bit too much, at least for me!  Personally, I only like to "show off" one body part at a time, ha.  That sounds reallllly strange, but I promise it works.  It also depends on the occasion, too! I was dressing for a wedding so I didn't want to bare too much, but if I was hitting up NYC, I'd feel more comfortable wearing something a bit more risque.  How do you guys feel about plunge necklines - are they a do or a don't?

Other fabulous deep-v pieces for your browsing pleasure...

Dress:  Asos || Shoes:  Qupid

Photos shot by the fabulous Sung Shin.

Sampling the Prime Rib's Dessert Menu: A Photo Diary

Last week, the fine folks at Live! Casino & Hotel invited me to come get my nom on at their Casino, and I ended up having a ginormous dinner at Luk Fu and an equally ginormous dessert course at Prime Rib.  Luckily, my mom was in town to help me out...not that it made much of a difference, we barely made a dent in the food!  

Regardless, I'm glad I got to try so many different dishes - I'm all about trying new things, and desserts are my kryptonite so this was my idea of a bangin' time.  I'll be recapping my dessert experience at Prime Rib for my latest, but Luk Fu dinner feature will go live next week sometime so definitely check back.

Their spiked milkshakes were decadent, delicious...and limited edition, ha.  The 3 flavors were Birthday cake w/ 3 Olives cake vodka, ultimate s'mores w/ Kahlua liqueur, and salted caramel apple piece with Rumchata.  Sorry guys - I hope they bring 'em back sometime soon though? Let's keep our fingers crossed!  

Next up, their Strawberry Lemon White Chocolate Mousse - a light, refreshing dessert that's ideal for summer. You'll be able to devour this even after the heaviest of meals since it's so airy!  I'm still blown away by the presentation.

Onto the Coconut Vanilla Panna Cotta w/ Tropical Fruit Gelee - this was yet another one of my favorites!  If you're a fan of fruity desserts, this is an absolute must-try.

Anddd the Bailey Lover's Dessert: coffee flavored cake topped with candied bacon and served with Baileys infused ice cream (!!!!)

The classic crème brûlée...

...and another classic: their NY Style Cheesecake, which is to-die for yummy BTW.

And last but not least, their Citrus Chiffon Cake with brandy peaches.  

I was beyond impressed with the presentation of everything, and although it all tasted good, I highly recommend the NY Style Cheesecake, the s'mores milkshake, the Bailey Lover's Dessert, and the Coconut Vanilla Panna Cotta. If you want something rich, go with any of the first three dishes listed above.  If you want something a bit lighter, order the Panna Cotta!  Alright guys, that's it for today. As always, let me know if you guys have any questions.  I hope you all have a fabulous Thursday!