The hunt for the birthday dress begins!

So my birthday is fast approaching and of course the most important thing on my mind is what to wear for that special day! Since I've been wearing my fave Pencey dress nonstop to go out, I figure that my bday is a good time to treat myself to a brand new frock. I was idly browsing online in my search for the perfect one when this Larsen Gray dress in lovely lipstick red practically screamed my name from Revolve Clothing's site. Though it doesn't come cheap, at least I can applaud the fact that the brand is well-known for making organic and fashionable clothing. The silhouette may be simple (a look I'm totally digging nowadays), but it'll be fun to dress up the sweetheart neckline with a standout statement necklace and choose the right accessories for the perfect bday outfit.

On Sale: The Elizabeth and James Chanteuse Dress

Nothing ever feels as good as when something you've wanted for so long finally goes on sale. I've been eyeing this Elizabeth & James Chanteuse Dress, exclusively at Neiman Marcus, for a while now. The website explains that the intricate frills and ruffles of the dress were inspired by French cabaret singers. I've seen the dress in stores and the bright cerulean blue color is gorgeous, while the frayed-edge tiers down the front are a cool detail.

My only problem with this silk party frock is that it's not for every woman. The heavy shredded ruffles and short bubble hem isn't a flattering look for all body types, possibly making you appear wider or stouter. The dress obviously works well on its own, paired with pretty heels and a clutch, but I also see it with a fitted black blazer (imagine the bold black and blue combo!) and long leggings. Try the Pencey Scuba Snap Favorite Leggings--the snaps add an innovative touch to any tunic or dress!

The Elizabeth & James dress is on sale from $575 to $403.

Breaking News: I Bought It!

I bought the Pencey dress!!! With the 20% discount, it came out to $308. Thank goodness Shopbop offers free ground shipping. I can't wait till it arrives. I loved how the dress looked on Leighton Meester (simple, unadorned, & hot!) and I'm looking forward to putting my own spin on it!

(Photo from Getty Images)

Pining for Pencey

Gee, thanks a lot Leighton. As if you don't already make me spend hard-earned money on the fabulous clothes you wear as Gossip Girl's Blair Waldorf, now I want to buy YOUR own clothes as well! Leighton Meester was spotted at the Tribeca Film Festival in a hot and very un-Blair-like dress. I love how Leighton was bold enough to wear this Pencey dress that flaunts her curves and long legs! The outfit was certainly a refreshing change from Blair's patterned tights and preppy cardigans.

With distinctive bustier detail and a pleated cummerbund, this Pencey dress is divine on Leighton. I want it but at $380, I may not be able to afford any Starbucks for several months (plus, I need to hit up the gym in order to pull off this skintight silhouette). While Leighton looks marvelous in the olive green and white color combo, the dress also comes in blush pink. Find the dress at Shopbop.

(Image of Leighton from Getty Images)