Grand Birthday Dress

2010 is the year of my Grand Birthday. While every birthday is typically 'grand' in nature, an official 'Grand Birthday' occurs when a person turns the age of the numerical day of their birth date. I feel bad for those born on the first, second, or third, etc. of a month. How sad and unfortunate for them! They have no recollection of their Grand Birthday, which is incredibly melancholic to me, because the concept of celebrating my Grand Birthday is something I've been looking forward to for years. Sure, I was excited to turn eighteen. Great! Now I can vote, oh, joy! And, yes, as an American, I was pumped to turn twenty-one. I kissed that fake ID goodbye, and proudly bid adieu to my alter-ego  "Jessica Wagoner" as quickly as possible. Now, at twenty-two, I don't have much to look forward to, birthday-wise - except for my Grand Birthday, occurring in a few short weeks, when I turn twenty-three on the twenty-third! I am going to wear this adorable black dress, and chassé between friends with a permanent smile and a never-ending glass of wine. This fancy frock will be perfect for this, or any, night of celebratory socializing. The accordion pleated, slightly sheer skirt will magically encircle my dancing legs to create a flowy silhouette that's totally mesmerizing. A discreetly hidden side-zip, empire waistband, and full lining ensure that I'll be comfortable and classy on my special day. The allover sparkling black polka dot pattern will slightly shimmer underneath colorful lights, so that my stellar outfit is totally illuminated. Finally, the ultra-adorable crisscross bodice features a sheer black panel at the left-hand side for an additional dose of sophisticated style. I'm excited to pair this lightweight frock with a darling vintage fascinator, bright red lips, a few silver accessories, and my favorite pair of towering Jeffrey Campbell stilettos. A successful birthday soirée is partially determined by your outfit, and this year, I've got it covered. -Annie, Fashion Writer