Spring Dress Edit (And Jumpsuits, Too)
I may be a little late to the party (which is usually ok with me, since I am an introvert). Spring dresses are in full bloom. I am just now getting to my Spring Dress Edit here on StyleDahlia. Easter is here, but our holiday is usual casual and this year we are on a plane to Boston. One could argue that it doesn’t feel like spring until you step out in a flowery dress. Of course, that means the weather must comply. Spring dresses have hit the shelves everywhere and I am inspired to try to find one for me.
The Struggle is Real
If you have been with me from the beginning, you know that I am pretty much a pants girl. I really struggle with dresses. I find the fit difficult because of my larger chest and I find it hard to find a flattering silhouette. One of my first posts was Dresses for the Denim Only Girl because I am always trying. Trying to find a flattering dress that fits my personality.
The task is difficult because I prefer edgy clothes, nothing to ruffled or overly flowery. I wear both but in moderation. Finding a dress that doesn’t veer too far from my everyday style is important to me. I don’t want to feel costumish. So I often choose florals based in black. Honestly, I prefer a black dress to all others. But, I am trying to branch out a bit. Just a bit!
Really Need to Find a Dress
I have several occasions coming up which have me in need of a couple good dresses. My son graduates from 8th grade and since he attends a school now, that runs K-8th, graduation is a big deal. There are two events associated with his graduation so I need two different dresses. Also, my nephew is graduating from college. It is the season of graduations and Mother’s Day. So you could say, I am ahead of schedule if we focus on those events.
Anthro and Bloomies
My two favorite places to search for dresses are Anthropologie and Bloomingdale’s. I feel they have the most unique and broad selection. Anthropologie always brings it with the beautiful dresses. Bloomindale’s has such a large selection and both companies have incredible sales. It makes it easy to find a dress for you and find it on sale.
Nordstrom and Shopbop are two other stores I shop at regularly but I find the, in store selection of dresses at Nordy’s to be pretty slim. I wonder if it is just my store? Shopbop has a huge selection online and returns are fairly easy.
Disclaimer: this post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase from one of them I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you, which allows me to keep this blog up and running. If you would like to know more, visit my disclosure policy page.
Anthropologie Garden Party Dress
I have rounded up a bunch of great options. I love this Anthropologie Garden Party Dress. It is definitely the perfect name for this dress. Can’t you just see yourself enjoying tea on the veranda in this dress? The neckline is universally flattering and the dress is so fresh and breezy. I asked my DD if she thought the dress was me enough, and she told me, so long as I wear the black shoes. The girl knows me. I got to have a bit of black. It grounds me.
Whistles Scarf Print Jumpsuit
Ok, so this is a bit of a cheat. It isn’t a dress but a jumpsuit. Jumpsuits are having a serious moment right now. There are literally hundreds of amazing styles and prints to choose from. A jumpsuit is inherently edgy and fits well with my personality. I honestly love pants. The fit can be the issue with jumpsuits, for me. I have a short waist and long legs so often the crotch is hanging or the pant legs are too short.
New Brand Discovery
I just discovered Whistles on my most recent visit to Bloomies. They are a London based design house which focuses on modern wearable clothing. I found each of the items I tried to be impeccably made and timeless. I definitely will invest in more pieces from this company.
The Whistles Scarf Print Jumpsuit is such a fun jumpsuit with a wonderful open back which can transition from day to night so easily. The pattern is a fun vibrant yellow, white and blue on a black (yes, black) background. Sometimes, I feel like wallpaper in big prints but this one is so modern, it just exudes cool.
Hobbs Alexis Jumpsuit
This is another London based designer and another jumpsuit. I find their clothes to be on the more conservative side for me. They have some amazing structured dresses and work attire. If modesty is your jam then Hobbs may be perfect brand for you. Hobbs clothing is so well made, I wanted to find more items to try. I spotted this jumpsuit first and it lured me in. Of course, for some reason the salesperson was overly pushy which drives me crazy. I don’t need items suggested to me. I know what I like and will look with my own eyes for what I want to try on. Ok! Rant over. I love the simple white flowers on this wide leg jumpsuit. The sleeve length is perfect and the silhouette is super flattering. And low and behold, the jumpsuit is long enough! I added a pop of color with my shoes.
Other Dress Options
I try and pick up a couple dresses every year. Certain styles just work best for me. I love the halter style dress with the empire waist. It is perfect for hot weather. I also love a good shift style dress. I think it is universally flattering and hides a multitude of perceived flaws. Here are a few I picked up in years past. These are more casual style dresses than the special occasion options above.
My Spring Dress Picks
I have rounded up a my picks for the best spring dresses below. First up are my picks for fun, flirty florals. Not all are black based florals but many are. I am a fan and I find it easier to tip toe into the floral trend than dive in head first. I have also included a selection of anything but floral. These are your plain dresses, geometric prints and stripes. These are my go to most of the time. Lastly, I have added a great selection of jumpsuits because Jumpsuits ROCK! I am in love with so many of these. How many jumpsuits is too many? I don’t know.
Great selections! I haven’t jumped on the jumpsuit trend yet, but they’re so cute. May have to get one soon. I live in dresses and like that last one. I could wear that every day.
Visiting from Facebook group: The Midlife blogging community
Xx…Melanie