The one where I go on a (mini) Roman holiday.

Last week I watched a movie I hadn’t seen in years - Roman Holiday {Haven’t seen it? Push it to the top of your Netflix queue.}

Here’s a quick synopsis… The glamorous Audrey Hepburn plays a princess who’s every thought & action is regulated by advisors. In an attempt to remove herself from her duties (& boredom), she escapes into the streets of Rome for one perfect day – a day where she gets to make all the decisions. There is a whole lot more to the story including a very handsome Gregory Peck & a heartbreaking final scene, but I couldn’t get out of my mind how fun the day she spent in Rome looked.

Now, I realize we all can’t hop on a plane today (Did you know that Diana is traveling there right now? I am so excited for her photos.), but I wrote down some key scenes from the movie and decided to create my own Roman Holiday.

Early in the movie Princess Ann runs, bright-eyed, through a public market, taking in the sights. She even trades in her heels for a pair of espadrilles. Does your town have a public market? This would be the perfect activity for a date or a morning with friends.

I did a quick search of Italian art and architecture in my area (I’m lucky enough to live a short way from Washington, D.C.) and was astounded by the number of buildings in our Capital that are inspired by Italian architecture. Even the inside of the Capital’s dome is decorated by Costantino Brumidi. I encourage you to do a search on your town - you might be surprised by what turns up!

No Italian adventure is complete without some gelato!

Some other ideas inspired by the movie? Sidewalk cafes, dancing by the water, and vespa rides.

I hope my little adventure encourages you to have one of your own. I do have one surprise – The lovely Shabby Apple (an online boutique full of gorgeous women's dresses) launched a new collection this week. Want to take a guess as to what the line is called? Ha! You’re close – The Roamin' Holiday collection.

They are offering one That is All reader a dress from the new line – The Spanish Steps dress.

This dress is stunning (I think Audrey would approve), and the A-line cut would be flattering on all shapes (except on you Cesar– no one wants to witness that).  ;) Interested in winning this dress? Follow these easy instructions…

• Find Shabby Apple on Facebook.
• Use this coupon code to get 10% off of your Shabby Apple purchase: thatisall10off
• Anyone can enter! - If you are international, I will work with Shabby Apple to have them send the dress to me, & I will forward it on to you. (I love all my foreign readers too!)

I will announce the winner next Friday!

That is all.

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