Down Under Dressing

"Riviera" print dress (Retrospec'd); Hat (Charming Charlie)

I love Indianapolis. I really do. But it's not my favorite city in the world. That honor belongs to a magnificent metropolis on the other side of the planet.

Striped ribbon necklace (Burlington Coat Factory); Monogram necklace (Ross Simons)

Though four Olympic Games have passed since I was last there, a piece of my heart will always reside in Sydney. I was only there for a three month internship with the Australian Federal Government, but I've never felt so at home.

The coastal inspired dress was perfect for the Indianapolis Opera's annual "Lobsterpalooza" fundraiser. Just as Sydney is my favorite city on the planet; lobster is my favorite food on the planet. I was polishing off my second one of night here! I'm not even sorry.

By hook or by crook, there's no doubt I'll go back one day. And when I do, local Sydney boutique Retrospec'd will definitely be on my list of must-visit places. The shop's 40s and 50s inspired line of Australian made, unique sundresses in custom fabrics are the stuff of Red's Shoe Diary dreams. 

The striped kitten heels were a bargain find from Zulilly. I added the crystal and enamel lobster shoe clips. for an extra dash (or claw) of personality.

This surplice-top cotton frock in the boutique's exclusive "Riviera" print has been a go-to piece for me this Summer, and was the perfect "coastal" look for the Indianapolis Opera's annual lobster boil last month. It was also fitting to wear the "Down Under" dress to an opera event since Sydney's iconic opera house was also my first (and still best) opera experience (and also on my must do again list next time I'm in the Southern Hemisphere)!

Striped handbag (Steinmart); Cardigan (ModCloth)

 Fashion is what you buy; Style is what you do with it!

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