The Ginger Dress

Ever since I was a small child, I've adored old, black and white, classic Hollywood films with big dance numbers - especially those starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. Although Rogers was almost always billed below Astaire, she was just as important a presence and as talented an actor and dancer as he.The ten musicals that feature this famous screen team are often dismissed by critics as "diversion" films, as they were made during the Great Depression, when uplifting music and energetic dance numbers were emphasized over a strong, logical plot. This, I think, is precisely the reason I am drawn to them. No matter how down and out I feel, curling up in a blanket and watching one of these classics seldom fails to lighten my mood and make whatever I am worried about seem a little less dismal. I adore this darling dress, reminiscent of the dresses Rogers wore in films like Swing Time (1936) and Shall We Dance (1937), for similar reasons. Its swirly skirt and playful polka dots put a smile on my face and make me feel like bursting into dance swing music, while its lightly padded bust and elasticized straps will keep my silhouette neat. When I need to a miracle mood lift, I'll pair this frock with a black bolero, bright red lips, a vintage-inspired handbag, and pretty patent pumps, and dance my sorrows away! -Jennifer, Fashion Writer