On the hanger, it's pretty dowdy and shapeless (the brand, appropriately is "Puddin' Shop", which makes me cringe just typing it). But along with the cheesy brand name and square silhouette, I also saw potential: a v-neck that would sit low on my chest, functional buttons up the front, sleeves that fell just right, and most importantly, a self-tie waist. Turns out, this dowdy dress was pretty easy to style in a more current fashion, and it's quickly become one of my favorites this summer (I wore it home recently, where my mother exclaimed, "is that my dress? Huh... I guess I was pretty stylish", uh yeah mom, why do you think I've been stealing your old clothes since middle school?).
If you find yourself at a thrift store with a similar dress in hand (or hey, at the back of your own mother's closet), a few tips for styling it up just right:
- Unbutton those buttons. A full button placket allows you to make the neckline lower and the slit higher. I love the contrast between a fairly modest dress and showing lots of skin. Bonus: it'll keep you cool on these last hot days of the summer.
- Use the self-tie or make your own. A self-tie waist lets you add shape to an otherwise shapeless dress, a silhouette that the late '80s and early '90s loved for some reason. I like self-ties over belts, which to me can feel too rigid, but you do you.
- Add the right accessories. Chunky jewelry, the peek of a black bra, a bag that feels current.
Of course, maxi dresses will always be in style. If I'm working from home and want to feel dressed without the effort, my go-to formula will always be maxi dress (loving these) + lace-up sandals (like these) + silver jewelry (forever a favorite). It always makes me feel done, without feeling too done up.
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