It’s no secret that I am a sucker for all things leopard. This one animal print, over all the others, dominates in my closet. I have flats and booties, t-shirts, blouses, scarves, purses, and clutches all in various shades and patterns of leopard print. What I didn’t have, until now, is a leopard dress.

But now, thanks to Cooper & Ella I own the Rae Dress in leopard. It’s the perfect little dress to transition from summer to winter and all the weather in between. Plus the dress comes with pockets, which let’s be honest is the single best feature of any dress. Pockets make everything better.

The look of Cooper & Ella pieces is meant to be a chic basic for the modern woman. The pieces, designed by Kara Mendelsohn, are designed for the woman who’s doing it all and wants to look good while doing it. They strive to be strong pieces without being overpowering, and items that can easily go from desk to dinner. This dress is totally all of this. It’s easy to layer for the office, as I did with this leather-accented sweater, and it’s easy to glam-up for after-work-drinks, with a chic heel and some great accessories.

For me, with my long legs, skinny pants or thick leggings are needed to make this leopard dress public appropriate. I love the short sleeves, which will make this a piece that stays in my closet 365 days of the year, rather than a seasonal item. Plus, it’s lined, which ensures it falls as it should and doesn’t cling awkwardly.