The Autumnal Dress of Dreams

Don’t be fooled by the post title as I’ll be wearing this statement ribbon-print dress in winter too (and breathe) but it’s autumn now so let’s run with it as autumnal. Which it is, of course, undoubtedly but it’s an all-rounder of a dress.

I adore the sheer shirt dress over the black slip beneath (gosh, slip makes me think of the 80s and 90s when my own stylish mother never wore a dress without a slip). Elegant and so incredibly comfy that I wore it to LEGOLAND, it buttons down, ties at the waist and makes you feel so stylishly boho-chic, you know Sienna Miller would wear this in a shot!

I love a print-clash too so paired it with the equally comfy Air & Grace leopard print boots gifted to me 2 years ago, which look and feel brand new.

Thank you to my new stylist Lauren Jobling of Wardrobe Doctor (whose life and work you can read about here) for her incredible eye…when Next offered to send me some pieces, Lauren chose dresses she knew I’ll wear forever…and that’s no hyperbole of a statement either. I’ve known Lauren for years as she’s worked in Fashion PR for a long-time and I love that everyone I collaborate with on the blog and my personal brand are people I’ve either known for ages or have been recommended by people I respect.

But back to the dress…

The quality, cut and perfect length for me (this midi length elongates the legs no end- and the boots only have a little heel) shows just how brilliant Lauren is.

I love style (you ALL know I do) but I (luckily) have so many events, shoots and shows to attend to on a regular basis that having Lauren is a gift.

It saves me time and stress and I still have all the fun of working with her on outfits and accessories so I still get to be creative and have direction with my look. It’s a partnership.

I’ve also loved meeting and working with designers as much-loved high street stores getting it absolutely right, as Next are.

The other thing I love about Next is their roomy sizes. I’m usually a UK 10 in most high street stores but always go for an 8 or 10 Petite there. Sizing doesn’t matter a dot but it’s undeniable that it’s a confidence-boost to order a size smaller (!). I remember when M&S were generous with their sizing too but lately everything there seems smaller than it once was.

So, do you like it? I’m in love!