Professional Dresses for Spring
May 7, 2014
After what felt like an endless winter, we have finally reached the longer, warmer days of spring. This is the time of year when the only thing that I won’t to wear is a dress. The ease, the femininity, there’s nothing better than a dress.
Work dresses come in many styles. Whether your personality is bold or staid, creative or conservative, you can find a dress that you will love. Here are a couple of styles to choose from, and all of the choices are under-$150.
Ivy & Blu Print Jersey Faux-Wrap ($98)
The wrap is my favorite dress style for a very practical reason: If I gain a few pounds, it still looks great. Sure, you have to pay attention the the depth of the neckline and the length of the skirt to keep it professional, but when you find one that fits, you’ll never want to take it off.
I love the color combination on this blue and black Maggy London dress (also in petite). Karen Kane makes a great faux wrap in solids or prints. Plus-size? Don’t miss this floral-print faux-wrap from Anne Klein. Tall? Banana Republic’s popular Gemma dress is a great option (also in misses).
Adrianna Papell Pleated Crepe Dress ($98)
The sheath is the quintessential professional-dress cut. While I prefer a dress with sleeves, this sleeveless AP sheath is just too good to miss. It comes in this gorgeous cobalt and also comes in black and mint.
Need a blazer or sweater for it? Try a white blazer with the cobalt or a brightly colored cardigan like this J.Crew Jackie in bright kiwi. (Don’t be afraid of color, as long as you’re wearing it intentionally, it’ll look awesome.)
This short sleeve sheath from Taylor has two contrasting printed fabrics in a neutral black and white palette. I also like this Topshop dress in a midi-length and relaxed fabric. This Maggy London dress combines stripes and solids for an interesting work piece. And this Classiques Entier dress has the look of Black Halo or Rachel Roy for a much lower price (tends to run large).
Plus-size? Check out this Calvin Klein peplum sheath. Petite? This Ann Taylor ponte sheath is a great basic.
Thank you for this post! Just wondering, what are your thoughts and opinions on sleeveless dresses for work? Are they appropriate or should a sweater/blazer always be worn with sleeveless pieces? Freeing cold AC aside, is it appropriate to show off my entire bare arm?
It depends on the office, but in most places it’s fine. I would bring a cardigan just in case though.
Dresses are my fav outfits to go to in spring and summer. Love the maggy london one a lot! I just got a faux-wrap Maggy london one from NRack and have been getting a good wear out of it. Great choices here Belle.
Thanks.
The Ivy & Blu Print Jersey Faux-Wrap is currently 30% off. Link below.
https://www.lastcall.com/Ivy-Blu-Long-Sleeve-Stretch-Knit-Wrap-Dress-Black-White-Ivy-Blu/prod24490051___/p.prod?icid=&searchType=SEARCH&rte=%252Fsearch.jsp%253FN%253D0%2526Ntt%253DIvy%252B%252526%252BBlu%2526_requestid%253D72424&eItemId=prod24490051&cmCat=search
I adore the cobalt dress, but I’m lost as to what kind of necklace to put with it, or if I even need one at all. Could you do a “clothes vs. outfits” post with it? I’m 21 and starting a new political job, so I will be reading your blog religiously. Thanks!
I wouldn’t put a necklace with it, the details make it unnecessary. Good luck with your new job.