Trendspotting: Bright, long-sleeved shifts

I'm loving the bright, long-sleeved shift dresses spotted on Victoria Beckham and Gwyneth Paltrow. Though both dresses can use a steaming, the idea is there:

Victoria Beckham; Gwyneth Paltrow

You know if these two style idols are wearing the item, then it must be right on trend.  I love the way they both keep their hair sleek, accessories at a minimum and shoes simple, and let the focus be on the bright color of the dress.  It's also an unexpected look for the fall season, and something that can easily be transferred over to the workplace.

I found some similar dresses inspired by their outfits.  Behold:

From left: Pleat waist sweater dress for $27.80, Forever 21.com; Jersey Morgan dress by JB by Julie Brown, now on sale for $125 on Bluefly.com.

I'm loving the teal color and the pinched-pleated waist detail in the Forever 21 dress, flattering on skinny girls and not-so-skinny girls alike.  BTW, it's also available in purple.  The JB by Julie Brown dress looks super modern in a black and white color scheme, with a great graphic pattern. I also love the way it skims the body, hiding many figure flaws.  I can't decide which one I like better, so I might just have to get both.