The night I got engaged almost three weeks ago, I just so happened to have on a brand-new dress. My hair was curled, my makeup was done and I had on my sassy purple suede booties. In other words, I was in exactly the right outfit — and frame of mind — for the proposal, though I had no idea it was coming! It was fate.

Let’s face it — certain clothing items just make you feel good. No matter what you weigh or what kind of week you’ve been having, putting on a great outfit and getting all dolled up can change your attitude and boost your confidence. That’s how I felt that night and it was partly due to an amazing dress that I had been admiring for quite a while.

Sealed With A Kiss Designs, on sale for $49.99

This dress from SWAK Designs (and thanks to them for giving me a shout out on their Facebook page!) was originally purchased for my office Christmas party. But a bout with flu-like symptoms (thank goodness it wasn’t actually the flu!) kept me from going to the fiesta. So, when my boyfriend (fiancé!) and I made plans to go out to dinner three weeks ago, it seemed like the perfect occasion to wear this special dress.

The thing I like best about this dress is the cut. Though at first glance I was nervous about the sleeves, because they looked like cap sleeves, they’re actually really flattering. And although it’s a sweater dress, it’s not terribly clingy. The gathering in the front falls over my stomach, rather than making it super noticeable. I wore the dress with a slip because it’s low cut, and the belt that comes with it accentuates your waist.

Here’s another dress I recently ordered from SWAK that is also cut beautifully.

SWAK Designs, on sale for $39.98

When it comes to dresses, how they fit and fall on your body is the key. When it all comes together, the dress becomes one of those pieces you’ll reach for time and time again. It will be the dress that makes you feel like you.

Do you have a dress that makes you feel extra stellar? Where do you like to shop for dresses?