Mood:  a-ok

As much as I love fancy shoes, pretty frocks, and playful accessories, I don't shop for my clothes that way. Normally, I buy clothes based on the following criteria:

• It's very inexpensive ($50 or less per item);
• It fits (not necessarily flatters);
• and It's machine washable  (no ironing needed).
  

This means that I'm not the most stylish librarian in the stacks. Even worse, I buy my shoes based on the following criteria:

• They're comfy and have arch support (no heels);
• They're a neutral color (meaning black, brown or taupe);
• and they're inexpensive ($75 or less).
  

This also means that my feet are healthy but are horribly dressed. Fortunately, I've found an inexpensive, well-fitting, machine washable and fashionable piece of clothing from an unexpected source: the normally dull and practical plus-sized catalog king Lane Bryant Catalog (not to be associated with the retail chain Lane Bryant). 

I received my order for a matte jersey, mock-wrap, black & white print dress from Lane Bryant Catalog with little hope for fashionability but strict practicality. However, when I opened the package and tried on the dress, I was wonderfully surprised. (I haven't been this wonderfully surprised since I found the plus-size, short inseam, flat front, stretchy dress trouser from Old Navy.) This is the most perfect dress I've ever owned.

The deep V-neck can show off clevage if worn with a push up bra or beautiful necklaces if worn with a traditional bra. The three-quarter sleeves can hide flabby upper-arms and allow you to showcase bracelets and gorgeous watches. (Speaking of gorgeous watches, check out Joan Rivers' Fashion Color Bold Watches at QVC's website.) It creates a waist if you lack one and accentuates an hour glass figure. It skims without clinging, and can go from day to evening with the right accessories. Not to mention, you can wear a bold color shoe to punch up the fun factor, and it is easily a three season dress. I'm planning to buy another one in a solid black color.  If you wear a size 14 and up, I recommend that you give this $25 winner a try.