STYLETHREAD -- LET'S TALK SHOP!

Hi guys,

Instead of studing for finals, I'm procrastinating and thinking about what I can wear to my friend's birthday party next week and my own birthday in three weeks. For my friend's birthday, we're going to a fancy Spanish restaurant downtown, so I'd like to wear a dress. I'm envisioning a short and poofy cocktail dress, but I'd like your opinions. For my own birthday, I want to wear the same thing I wore for the dinner next week, but I'd like to spice it up with accessories.

So, basically, what I'd like to find is a dress that can work for both events. It will be preferably under $75, and easily found at the local mall or shopping center. Oh, and I'd really like to see how you guys change the look of the dress, too.

You're all so helpful, I'm sure I'll get a lot of ideas about what to wear from your responses. Thanks so much!