Birthday Star // Turning 27 + Black Slip Dress

This week I'm celebrating another trip around the sun! My 27th birthday is Saturday, Aug. 17 and you better believe I'm escorting 26 out with a bang — stars in all. 

I wish you guys could see the subtle rainbow glitter on my dress. The sparkles take it to the next level, making it completely special-occasion approved! But whether you can see the shine or not, a slip dress like this one is the perfect blend of sexy and sophisticated. The double slits are especially flattering and fun.

I'm all for dressing up on your special day — whatever kind of day that may be. For me, a birthday outfit is an empowering way to celebrate and ensure you feel your best. After all, what's better than feeling like a star? And what better way to feel like a star than dressing like one? It's called confidence, baby...and sometimes clothing can make all the difference!

Full disclosure: I bought this dress three years ago, and although I loved it, I never felt fully comfortable in it. After wearing it once and shooting it for this post (umm can you believe how long my hair is?), I put it in the back of my closet and pretty much forgot about it. 

Now, three years later, I've developed more confidence in myself (and not going to lie, I also toned up and lost weight), and I was so excited when I put this LBD back on and felt incredible in it! What a feeling! It's THAT feeling you want to accompany you during any and all of your big days.

Photos by Antonio Owens 

[dress: & Other Stories (old, but I also like this one) // heels: Zara (old, but I also like these) // earrings: Ann Taylor (I also like this pair) //lip color: Urban Decay Vice Lipstick in "Backtalk" // balloons: Balloon Kings]

Every year I look forward to doing a fun, personality-filled birthday photo shoot with balloons. For me, it's the perfect way to celebrate a new year and make the milestone that much more memorable. This year, Antonio and I headed to Washington Square Park and arrived by 8:30 am on a Sunday in order to capture it essentially empty. 

And how about these balloons? Last year I was all for tonal, metallic vibes, but this year I was feeling rainbow, sparkle, and pizzaz! It just goes to show that no matter how "old" you get, you're never too old for whatever makes your heart sing. JUST DO YOU :) ...and if that means buying the rainbow balloons and parading them around NYC, then do it! And do it boldly. 

// SHOP DRESS //