get the look -- long-sleeved mini-dresses.

ATTAINABLE: Dolce Vita Archer Metal Sandal in Hot Pink (also in Black and Nude)
www.freepeople.com; $69
After seeing these darling little sandals on Kristin, I knew I was truly in love. Everything about them is so charming: the shape, the metal bar, and strappy silhouette, the sliver wedge... While both the black and nude would undoubtedly be more practical choices for me, I can't resist this fun candy-colored pink hue. What a perfect punch of color with anything from a flirty spring dress to a pair of denim cutoffs.

I'm a big fan of balance in fashion. Colors and neutrals, patterns and solids, and revealed skin with modesty. After the buzz around the Heidi Merrick dress that I featured in this post, I knew that I'd be writing soon about the joy that is long-sleeved mini-dresses -- pieces that perfectly capture my love of balance in style. There's nothing sexier when the weather turns warm than bare legs with a more modest neckline and covered arms. When paired with pumps and sparkly jewelry, these pretty frocks are a fabulous, ladylike way to celebrate spring.


DEAL: Lulu's Gift Basket Blue Shift Dress
www.lulus.com; $35
The details on this sweet little chiffon dress are what make it so irresistible to me. I love the touches of pink at the back and hem of this pretty cobalt dress, and the slightly floaty sleeves are true perfection. My favorite part is of course the detailed back -- such a pretty way to show off a touch of extra skin if the neckline feels too constricting.

EXTRAVAGANCE: Joie Portia Dress
www.shopbop.com; $338
I think that what appeals to me most about this pretty Joie dress is its incredible versatility -- as tends to be the case for me with most Joie pieces. I love the sweetness of the lace and perfect silhouette, but I'm particularly enamored with the day-to-night quality it. Perfect with a pair of flats or sandals for day, this frock would transition seamlessly to evening when added to a tall pair of pumps and a long string of pearls.


DEAL: Gap Pintucked Print Dress in Green Print (also in Orange Print)
www.gap.com; $59.95
My obsession with chevron is slowly getting out of control, and the print manifests itself beautifully in this pretty frock. I love the bold green color (though the orange is fabulous as well) and the subtle lines of blue that run through it. The perfect wear-to-work dress, this would be perfect all summer with a pair of simple flat sandals and a leather tote.

EXTRAVAGANCE: J. Crew Big Apple Tunic Dress
www.jcrew.com; $150
As soon as I saw the punchy red hue of this J. Crew frock, I was totally sold on it. I love the bold, abstract pattern and that the contrasting white trim feels just slightly retro. The perfect cut and length to wear to work, this would be fantastic with an oversized clutch and bold earrings.

Are YOU wearing long-sleeved mini-dresses this spring?
xo Josie
Thanks to Free People, Lulu's, Shopbop, Gap, and J. Crew for the photos.