Strawberry Versatility with Dolly & Dotty

When it comes to wardrobe versatility, I find that a strawberry print is something that works just as well for winter as it does for summer.  Sure, summer is the strawberry season, but consider the colors one finds in a strawberry dress and you'll see why I love strawberry prints like this Grace Pleated Bust Dress from Dolly & Dotty even, or should I say especially, in winter.

First of all, the traditional colors of the Christmas and in fact the entire winter season are red and green in much of the world due to the evergreens like holly, pine, cedar, and mistletoe, and of course the Cardinals do not migrate during the winter and so provide a delightful contrast against the snow. 

Red has been shown to boost the mood during the winter as well and has long been a part of decorations and clothing in countries where winters are bitterest.  Going back to strawberry prints, the reds of the berries and greens of the leaves combined with any background hue make for such a cheerful look in those long cold months.  

I love the contrast of the black background of this Grace dress because it really makes the print pop.  Throw some polka dots into the mix and the contrast of this warm red pleated bust line and I am in absolute vintage heaven.  This dress is so dreamy.  It's perfect for a summer picnic, suggestive of Christmas with these colors,  and wouldn't it make the perfect Valentines's date night dress as well?!  And all it takes to convert it to winter readiness is to add a cardigan and some wool tights underneath. 

I'm loving every minute of summer while it lasts and wearing this Grace dress as much as possible, but this pretty dress is definitely making a comeback for winter.

Outfit Info:  Grace Black Strawberry Pleasted Bust Dress from Dolly & Dotty, Bag is old from Collectif, heels are old.