We Interrupt Your Regularly Scheduled Post…
Apr 8, 2013
The regularly scheduled Ask Belle posts are being pushed to tomorrow because I need to talk about the dress I’m wearing today. This is the second time I’ve worn it, and I have decided that I am positively in love with it. I’m penning this post on my iPhone while at lunch, such is the depth of my adoration.
This dress from Bailey 44 is the definition of an easy professional dress. It’s super comfortable. It comes in a very professional length, cut and color. The neckline has a Jason Wu-reminiscent twist detail, and the dress bridges the gap between business casual and office professional with a simple change of shoes. I love it.
So if this warm weather has you searching for an awesome dress to wear to work, the Ina Boatneck should be considered a contender. It also comes in petites, and if you’re looking for a plus-size alternative, try this Melissa Masse dress or this Ralph Lauren. Need something cheaper? This Lilly Pulitzer is a bit shorter, but the same shape at $88, or this simple, sleeveless Brooks Brothers sheath.
I’ve fallen in love with this Lands’ End ponte dress for similar reasons: basic but not too boring (and you can easily add scarf or necklace), superbly comfortable, and a substantial but not heavy fabric weight. Also, as someone in the “pear-shaped” family I’ve found the structure supremely flattering.
Plus, for $30 how can you go wrong?
https://www.landsend.com/pp/womens-pleat-shoulder-drapey-ponte-v-neck-dress~245296_59.html
I own this dress in the cobalt blue color and I agree; it’s practically perfect. If readers are looking to purchase it I would recommend sizing down, however. I’m a solid 6 and the Small is almost too big for me.
I want all of these dresses. Sorry, credit card.
Hi Belle, the Ina Boatneck dress links are not working for me. Are the paths correct?
This reminds me of the Black Halo “Jackie O” dress, but for a much more wallet friendly budget (albeit more Hill Staffer than Paid Intern). Love it!
Do not (DO NOT) fall for the Lily Pullitzer dress. It is completely and totally see through and the fabric just looks cheap.
Good to know.
Lilly Pulitzer herslef just passed away apparently.
NPR had a neat little obit on her and her legacy of really bright patterned dresses 70s dresses. I wasn’t familiar with her at all, and it was interesting. Something more to remember her by than the bags and (apparently) see through dresses.
https://www.npr.org/2013/04/08/176597477/fashion-icon-lilly-pulitzers-legacy-of-color