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(photos by the gorgeous Dunja Opalko)
Could it finally be time to park my Canadian tux away for another couple of months? (Obviously never) But I’m pretty sure all anyone has seen me in since October is my favourite double denim get up- but now, with highs of 16 degrees out there (don’t forget your sun hats, kids!) I’m thinking it could be time to reveal the ankle (ooft) and give my Little Women back-catalogue some of the outings they truly deserve.
Over winter I definitely retreat into forgetting how to style dresses successfully (will absolutely be taking styling notes from my pals Charlotte and Harmony next year)- but with my favourite season approaching, I thought I’d pick a few of my favourite dresses that I’m more than excited to wear, for a little spring edit. They’ve done their fair share of making the front of my wardrobe doors look gorgeous when it’s been colder, and now is their time to shine. I thought I’d share some of some of my favourite spots for the best dresses, based on the brands sitting pretty in my wardrobe already (and the ones I go to again and again)- as always, do feel free to comment with your favourites below as I know I’m very much only scratching the surface here (must remember the definition of the word ‘edit’)!
P.S I haven’t listed vintage here, although in general vintage is always my first port of call when it comes to adding something new to my wardrobe. For my big ol’ guide on where I source my favourite vintage, you can have a nosey here.
P.P.S For more excellent dress recommendations, and a London pop up coming very soon check out Isabelle at Daily Dress Edit (if anyone can share a great dress brand, it’s this lady)!
(Green satin dress: Ghost)
The Silky
Oh! Does anything feel as good as pulling out a little slinky number when it starts getting warmer? Layered with a tied up cardigan and a basket bag; anything from a thirties nightgown to a cap-sleeved tea dress has the power to make me feel a million dollars and want to give my very best ‘barefoot Florence Welch running through a flower field’ performance. After nailing the underwear situation last year (these from M&S for serious no underwear showing credentials, although- admittedly not small, are incredible for skimming liquid-like dresses), I’m excited to take my collection out for a swoosh soon.
Ghost – The home of beautiful satin dresses that truly need not be kept for bridesmaids only. Dress down (ahem) with white boots and a neckscarf.
Rouje – Nobody does a chic French frock like Jeanne, and some of my favourites have come from Rouje.
Rixo – Does anybody nail the classic slinky silk dress like Rixo? Prints! Nightdresses (to day dresses)! Long sleeve! Short sleeve! Maxi! Mini! Heaven.
Coutille – If we’re doing nightwear as daywear, new brand on my radar Coutille are going to come up trumps with some of the most special slips I’ve seen. So chic and perfect for daytime too.
(Yellow silk dress – Doen)
The Special
Not *just* to be saved for big occasions, these are some of the brands I turn to when I’m after a true showstopper. I’m trying to be less someone that saves certain pieces for best (because don’t we deserve to feel our best all the time?) Plus, when I’m investing in something I want to make sure it truly gets it’s wear too, no matter the date.
Doen – I feel like every white dress Doen release is a true slice of magic, and I’ve yet to meet a Doen dress I didn’t love. They’re definitely an investment but will see you through spring after spring.
Sezane – The thing about Sezane is not only do they do special occasion dresses, but ones that feel so wearable and versatile with the everyday too. Be that florals, sequins, denim or crochet- everyone’s a winner, baby.
Free People – If you want a dress that will give serious Daisy Jones/Camilla Dunne (or, you know our very own Stevie) vibes truly look no further.
Rejina Pyo – I only have one of Rejina’s dresses which I scooped in the sale, but every single one- be it a cotton sundress or something more statement, packs a punch.
Reformation – Another ride or die when it comes to special dresses; Ref just get it right. Whether that’s the perfect mini or subtle nod to prairie- the shapes are always spot on.
Queens of Archive – For retro nods that ooze ‘70s glamour and true main character energy, QoA always have the most fun, dazzling dresses.
Me + Em – For thoughtful timeless pieces with very clever design details- that go from wedding to work, Me + Em do it very, very well.
Dream Sister Jane – For delicious prints, fluffy meringue like organza and details to make you go weak at the knees.
Radish – For perfectly cut cotton dresses with the most delicate and intentional details.
Mr Larkin – For dresses that always seem to step away from expected cuts and design but always feel special.
(White Dress – Chalsie Joan)
The Handmade
At the moment there are so, so many amazing designers and brands offering custom and handmade options, which feels like a really special time to be investing in fashion and a real treat when it comes to making a purchase. Below are just a couple of my favourites that I have experience with, but I know there are so many more (and maybe this is another whole post in itself?)
Chalsie Joan – Ever since discovering Chalsie’s designs I’ve been in love with her pieces and the detail that goes into them- and, having purchased one of her Anna dresses and her Margot trousers, can confirm they’re every bit as special in real life too.
Franks London – All designed and made to order, Franks boasts the most amazing selection of classic designed dresses in timeless shapes and prints which will be cherished. Next on my list is their dreamy gingham Emmeli dress.
(Blue dress – Loeffler Randall)
The Prints
As much as I’m a sucker for a classic white or pastel dress; nothing sings like a Liberty floral or timeless polka dot in spring. These are some of my favourite spots for dots, blousy blooms and everything in-between…
Loeffler Randall – Okay so maybe you know them for their dream-like shoes, but did you know Loeffler Randall’s ready to wear also boasts Liberty florals, scallop detailing and dreamy midi dresses? Hubba hubba!
Kitri – Home of bright, sunshiney prints and beautiful classic shapes which work just as well with a party heel as they do a Gazelle.
Batsheva x Laura Ashley – No print edit is complete without a Laura Ashley in there, and the new collection with Batsheva is arguably one of my favorites so far.
Damson Madder – One of my newer favourite places for playful prints and interesting details (all done ethically which makes it even cooler).
Meadows – For folklore and Victoriana inspired pieces which feel timeless and completely unique.
Olivia Annabelle – For prints that feel like they’ve been plucked out of an Austen novel or tapestry at a favourite gallery, Olivia Annabelle’s feel fairytale like and always deliver absolute magic.
Lisou – If one lady in fashion knows how to create a show stopping print and piece, Rene does. Whether that’s a dress or a suit, Lisou always get it right.
Sleeper – The *classic* linen spring dress option.
My Cariad – Effortlessly feminine, beautiful prints and the kind of dresses that are just as gorgeous for a wedding guest as they are for a spring picnic.
Shrimps – There are few dresses that make me as giddy as Shrimps; even if it’s a classic gingham, their cuts and small details always have the power to make something stand out.
x
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