With warmer weather on the horizon (hopefully!) I thought it was about time I started sorting through my wardrobe in search of existing pieces that can be reworn in the months to come. One of the joys of milder temperatures is the opportunity to wear more dresses, so that's where I decided to start! These four pieces all represent dress styles that are versatile, easy to wear, and perfect for swishing your way through spring.
You can watch the video on YouTube or right here, but do head over to YouTube if you want to check out links to the dresses or similar pieces.
Have you dug out your spring clothes yet?
Kate x
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This post contains gifted items from Pretty Little Thing, and affiliate links. All gifts and affiliate links are marked "AD".
As you might remember from my Blog Overhaul Post from the end of last year, I'm on a bit of a mission to bring more useful content to my blog and social channels in 2019. A big part of that is going to involve bringing you more fashion related posts, looking at what's on trend, and translating that into outfits that look fab, but also function as wearable clothing for the average 40 plus woman. (Or at least, that's the aim!) So when Pretty Little Thing got in touch to ask if I'd like to collaborate on a dresses post with them, I did my research first. And, as a result, each of the three dresses I've picked ticks off not one but two key trends for 2019, making them real must have pieces for this year, especially when spring comes along.
Dress 1: Leopard Print And Prairie (AD)
I'm sure I'm not the only one who's thrilled that animal print styles are going nowhere fast! There's something so playful and fun about them, yet they can also look super chic when done right. Another trend that seems to be growing in popularity is the Prairie trend, and the style of this dress definitely gives me cowgirl vibes! I've teamed mine with high heeled ankle boots, as my short legs tend to need a height boost when dresses hit me mid calf. I've also added a thin waist belt, my current favourite bag - apologies if you're already sick of seeing it - and rolled up the sleeves.
This dress works really well with a slim fitting black turtle neck top underneath and thick black tights, which is great in this bitterly cold weather, but I can also see it in spring with a nice pair of wedges or mules. Or, if you're really feeling the Prairie thing, you could always team it with cowboy boots. Definitely a versatile piece, and one I'll be getting plenty of wear out of from now until the summer.
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Dress 2: Sunset Orange And Feminine Shape (AD)
Have you noticed how longer length dresses and elegant, feminine cuts seem to be everywhere lately? Great news as far as I'm concerned, as I find this type of dress so flattering and easy to wear. The shape of this one in particular - flowing skirt, shirt style bodice, side split - reminds me of one of the must have dresses from earlier on in the season. I can't remember where that one was from, but it had polka dots and used to pop up every third photo or so on my Instagram feed! I was always admiring it, so I'm thrilled that the style is still very much in vogue and that I'm now able to enjoy it for myself with this Pretty Little Thing number!
The second trend box this dress ticks is the colour - this lovely sunset orange is going to be big news in 2019 and I can see myself loving it, especially when the weather gets a bit warmer. I have paired the dress with a simple cream bag and flat mules, letting the gorgeous vibrant colour do all the talking. I also think it would work beautifully with tan accessories - for example some tan suede over the knee boots would look great with it and also be more weather appropriate right about now!
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Dress 3: Dusky Pink And Pleats (AD)
My final must have dress from Pretty Little Thing is definitely more of an occasion piece, and without question more suited to spring and summer - I almost froze to death getting these photos! This is just the kind of dress I love to have waiting in the wings for any weddings or special parties that might pop up during the warmer months - just add heels and a clutch bag in a metallic hue and you are good to go! The dusky pink colour (kind of like millennial pink, but a touch more muted) is very much on trend for 2019. Good news for me, but if you're not a fan, it also comes in black!
In my opinion, the best thing about this dress is its beautiful, finely pleated skirt, and again this is a style detail that is bang on trend for 2019. It's definitely something of a princess dress, so I would recommend going slightly more "grown up" with your choice of footwear - nothing too chunky!
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Which is your favourite of the three dresses? And which trends do you think you'll be embracing in 2019?
Kate x
Valentine's, Galentine's, or just because you want something pretty... do we really need an excuse to shop for a new dress? I for one don't take a lot of persuading! For as long as I can remember, dresses have been my go-to for just about every occasion. I love how effortless they are - throw on a few accessories and you're good to go - and I love how feminine and put together I feel when wearing them. Valentine's Day is right around the corner, and the question of what to wear is probably in a lot of people's minds right about now. Well, whether you're heading out for a date night with your partner or you're celebrating Galentine's with your best mates, why not embrace the occasion by wearing the prettiest, most romantic dress you can find? Below, I've put together my 5 top tips on how to choose the perfect one for you.
1. Romance Doesn't Have To Mean Ruffles
Personally, I've always had a fairly girly, feminine style, but I'm aware that frills, floral prints and blush pink aren't going to be everyone's cup of tea. That said, you can pile on the romance factor without going anywhere near those things. Case in point - the beautiful Miss Selfridge dress I'm wearing in these photos. Not a ruffle in sight, and very grown up, I'll think you'll agree. Yet it's one of the most romantic dresses I've ever had the pleasure of wearing. For me, the all over intricate lace, soft silhouette and nude lining peeping through the outer layer help to make this the perfect date night dress.
2. It's All In The Details
Now this isn't to say that a very simple dress can't be romantic, but for me, there's just something that little bit more special about interesting details, and they can really help to give a dress that added wow factor. Those details could be anything from show-stopping lace, a delicate print or cut-out details to a full pleated skirt, luxurious fabric or a stunning open back. Whatever speaks to you, make it your own! I guarantee that special little added touch will make you feel even more amazing when wearing your dress.
3. Maintain A Little Mystery
This is potentially a fairly controversial thing to say, so just to be clear, I have no problem with anyone's clothing choices or how much skin, or how little, they choose to show. I'm speaking purely from the point of view of what I think makes the perfect romantic dress, and for me, that's a dress that leaves a little something to the imagination. That doesn't mean that it can't be sexy, just in a more subtle way. For example, the dress I'm wearing in this post is quite modest at first glance, but in fact the nude slip underneath the outer layer of lace is very short, so you get a glimpse of the wearer's legs, without them being totally on display. Alternatively, bare shoulders can be really beautiful, and paired with a longer skirt length, it makes the whole look softer and draws more attention to the feature you've chosen to showcase.
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4. Above All, Feel Comfortable
Probably the most important tip of all. After all, nothing is going to look good on you if you don't feel comfortable wearing it! When you feel good in your outfit, it has an impact on your mood and allows you to relax, have fun, and focus on the company you're with - pretty important on Valentine's, Galentine's or any occasion for that matter. So go shopping, try on a few (any excuse) and don't settle until you've found the one! (Yes, I'm still talking about clothes.)
5. The Finishing Touches
It's February, and here in the UK at least, coats are still very much needed! As far as I'm concerned, outerwear is as much a part of your outfit as the dress itself, so it's worth thinking about what you have that will compliment it, even if it's coming off as soon as you reach your destination. I've fallen in love with this chic grey coat from Miss Selfridge, and it's the perfect partner for my dress. Once you have your outerwear sorted, you need to think about your accessories. I always have dainty heels and clutch bags in black and nude in my wardrobe, so even if there isn't time (or budget!) to get something new, I know I should be able to complete my outfit.
Find Your Perfect Romantic Dress
Do you have a favourite romantic dress in your wardrobe? And do you have any exciting plans for Valentine's Day?
Kate x
Some links may be affiliate links. This poses no extra cost to you, the customer. All opinions, as always, are my own.
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