{ the jaunty magpie }

Are you sick of lacy pink hearts, red roses and fluffy tulle coming out the yin-yang? It's funny how February's a month festooned with Valentine's Day cotton candy colors, yet its birthstone is the regal amethyst, which can range from rich purple tones, to subtle shades of lavender, all the way to being almost colorless and crystal-clear. So to shake off the Valentine Hangover, how about Mood of regal purple hues, to celebrate not only this new month, but a color that is truly flattering.

It's true, everyone can totally wear purple. You have to find just the right hue, but it's got a wide range of cool to warm tones like any color and it just gives a look such richness. Surely it was no coincidence that The Purple One has the stage name "Prince." Who knows what that crafty devil is calling himself nowadays, but his heart was sure in the right place when he first rocked out on Purple Rain. Even Grimace from the Ronald McDonald gang looks put together -- everyone looks good in purple! So get some worked into your wardrobe, be it small hints or bold, all-over color.

{1} Flyaway T-Straps in navy from Anthropologie, {2} Amethyst and Diamond Ring by Roberto Coin from Bergdorf Goodman, {3} Embroidered scarf in plum by Chan Luu from Nordstrom, {4} Purple cotton 120th Anniversary doll tote by Lanvin on Bluefly, {5} Metallic skinny belt in Grape from J. Crew, {6} Blue Topaz and Amethyst Bangle by Marco Bicego from Neiman Marcus, {7} Purple Chain Embellished Cardigan by Milly from Stylebop.com, {8} Mini Stardust and Eyeshadow Primer Potion Duo by Urban Decay from Sephora, {9} Portola Valley Quinn in Mauve by Kate Spade, {10} Penelope Silk Dress by Elizabeth and James from Cusp

Jaunty Fine Print:  images from listed shops above