My sister recently sent our family group text an article about how Americans should party more, so, taking that note, I decided to throw myself a small birthday gathering this month. I’m planning to invite a few friends over for chocolate mousse. After all, life is short, and you only turn 46 once! 😉

The chocolate mousse at L’Appartement 4F is an inspiration.

As for what to wear, a velvet dresses could be so lovely…

A midi length feels grown-up and elegant, especially with a deep red lip.

How pretty is this swingy number with little gold stars?

Finally, this square neckline! The cap sleeves! The slinky silhouette! The only catch is that that it’s very splurgy.

Thoughts? Do you like any of these? Have you thrown yourself a birthday party? There are also lots of velvet dresses on resale sites, like this and this. (And I like the idea of wearing black lace underneath!)

P.S. Thoughts on aging, and the crazy thing we did at my 40th birthday party.