Posts Tagged ‘dresses’

Long Sleeve Stripe Dresses For Winter 2017

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A long sleeve stripe dress is a great addition to your winter wardrobe, if you’re looking for affordable pieces that will add style to your existing wardrobe.

One of my favourite go-to summer outfits was the stripe tee dress. It was always easy to chuck on and team with white canvas sneakers or sandals. When I look at my #everydaystyle Instagram photos, I can see this outfit was worn on high rotation.

long sleeve stripe dress for winter 2017

I sometimes find dressing for winter can take a little longer because you have to add layers depending on the temperature outside.

Those of us that live in Queensland, or a warmer climate need to keep in mind that by midday, it can be quite warm, so our first layer needs to be a breathable long sleeve or short sleeve top.

What I like about the long-sleeve stripe dress is that it’s trans-seasonal. It works well in between seasons and can be accessoried and layered in Winter.

long sleeve stripe dress for winter

These dresses can also work well for beach cover-ups, where your arms can be fully covered, which for me is vital because of my fair skin.

I purchased a black and white stripe long sleeved dress at the end of last winter from City Chic and it is a denser fabric than say a thin t-shirt style. I will definitely be looking at investing in more of these dresses for winter.

Here are some styles I’ve found online. White and Navy, Black and White and Blue and White are the most common long-sleeve stripe dress colours. I’d love to find one in red stripes.

long sleeve stripe dresses

  1. The Fifth Label, The Firefly Long Sleeve Dress $69.95
  2. O’Neill Shutter Dress $59.99
  3. Bohemian Traders Long Sleeve Scoop Neck Stripe Dress $139.00
  4. Bohemian Traders Long Sleeve Dress with Contrast Binding $129.00
  5. Gordon Smith Stripe Tie Front Dress $119.95
  6. Freez Stripe Tunic Dress $49.00

Accessorise your dress with a faux fur vest. Last year I wore my stripe dress with a suede vest. Add leggings if it’s too cold to bare your legs. Add tan or beige ankle boots to dress it up, or white canvas shoes for a smart-casual look.

What do you think about the long sleeve stripe dress? Will you be adding this style to your wardrobe this season?

Disclosure: There are affiliate links on this post. Should you choose to purchase an item, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

5 Ways to Wear A 3/4 Sleeve Miracle Dress

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If you have been looking for a dress that is affordable, can be worn a few different ways and is a great base outfit for winter, the 3/4 sleeve miracle dress is that dress.

I was introduced to the short sleeved version of the miracle dress when my hairdresser was wearing one when I had my appointment a few weeks ago. I asked her where she got it from and she told me one of her clients had set up a boutique shop called Wardrobe 22 under her house in Salisbury and I should totally check her out. Her store and clothes that is. 🙂

I went straight onto Instagram and followed the page and checked out the clothes.

I love supporting new and small businesses because I am one myself. I also find these small businesses can offer a range of clothing that is different to what is in typical high street stores.

The 3/4 sleeve Miracle Dress in Khaki grabbed my attention, so I emailed Karen to see if she would be willing for me to work with her to promote the dress.

Last Thursday morning, I headed to her home with my three girls in tow and started trying on different outfits. You can see some of those pics on the Wardrobe 22 Instagram page.

I took some garments home to style at home, so look out for that post this week.

But I wanted to show you 5 ways you can wear a 3/4 sleeve miracle dress as the style can be converted into a variety of different outfits. Since writing this post, I’ve discovered a 6th way!

Having a dress that can be worn different ways makes it the perfect garment to own for travelling or if you are trying to create a capsule wardrobe.

5 ways to wear a miracle dress

Similar to the convertible dress from Intimo (which I recently received after having an Intimo party), the miracle dress is a budget friendly version and comes in brown, khaki, black, grey and an orange paisley pattern. However I think the Intimo style can be converted more ways – for example, I can’t do off the shoulder in the miracle dress. But if you love the Intimo one, but can’t afford it, the miracle dress is a budget-friendly, close second option to consider. Plus it comes in more colours.

5 Ways to Wear a 3/4 Sleeve Miracle Dress

The dress is a one size fits all style that will fit an 8 to 22. Worn as is, it has a V-neck and gorgeous drape over the hips which can hide a tummy and flatter your shape. Here I’m wearing the khaki style as is with some simple heels so you can see the shape of the dress.

3/4 sleeve miracle dress1. Wear as is with V-neck style

khaki miracle dress

2. Wear Back-to-Front, round neck style

Turn the dress around and wear it back-to-front for a round neck option.

round neck miracle dress option

3. Wear as One Shoulder

If you have an event to go to, pull one of the sleeves inwards and tuck it so the drape hangs beautifully, pull the dress down underneath your arm to create a one-shoulder style. Add a necklace and heels.

miracle dress off the shoulder

4. Wear as Strapless

I experimented with a grey version which is available in store, but not online yet. Bring both of the sleeves inside the dress and adjust the drape around the hips. Add a necklace and you have a gorgeous sweetheart neckline strapless dress.

5 ways to wear a 3/4 sleeve miracle dress

5. Wear as a Top

Bring the hem of the dress up and you can wear the dress as a top. Add a scarf and you’re good to go.

miracle dress as a top

miracle dress 5 ways to wear with styled by bec

If you’re wondering what the sixth way is? Wear the dress back-to-front, raise the hem so you can have a round neck top version.

I know I’m going to get ALOT of wear out of this dress for Autumn Winter 2017.

The dress is available at Wardrobe 22 in khaki and chocolate. In store there are other colours including grey, paisley orange and black.

For $65, you will get a lot of cost per wear from this miracle dress.

So tell me, if you owned a miracle dress, which way would you wear it?

Disclosure: I was gifted one khaki miracle dress for the purpose of this post. All opinions are my own. You can read my disclosure policy here.

 

 

 

 

 

Seven Dresses on High Rotation in my Wardrobe

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I have a lot of dresses. I didn’t realise how many dresses I had until a friend asked if she could borrow a dress to wear to a wedding. When she saw my collection she said ‘I want your wardrobe.’  Truth is, I love my wardrobe too, but there are a few styles that I always gravitate to when it comes to my weekly outfit selections.  In fact there are seven dresses on high rotation in my wardrobe that faithfully flatter and give me confidence when I haven’t had the usual excitement about what I wear.

seven dresses on high rotation in my wardrobe

This last week I haven’t really cared what I’ve put on. I usually enjoy creating new outfits from the clothes in my wardrobe, but this week, I didn’t have time nor the mind power to create something new.

A mix of exhaustion, dealing with sick kids, not being able to connect to the internet and trying to meet work deadlines took away my motivation to put any effort into my appearance.

We all have weeks and days like that. There is nothing wrong at all about not caring what you wear. Even stylists can get into a rut.

But the best thing about having a well-organised and stocked wardrobe is during those down times,  I can be confident that what I put on will flatter as I’ve made some good clothing purchases.

I’ve noticed this year I have reverted to some classic and favourite styles which has lead me to write this post, sharing the 7dress styles I’ve had on high rotation this summer.

I’ve included where you can get similar styles from if you think these pieces will add value to your wardrobe.

This year, my focus is not on acquiring more clothes, but wearing what I own more, hence the introduction of my hashtag #repeatedmystyle.

After an analysis of my Instagram account, here are seven dresses on high rotation in my wardrobe. Maybe you have some of these in your possession? Or you could see the benefit of having a particular style if you don’t own it… yet.

Seven Dresses on High Rotation in my Wardrobe

1. Off The Shoulder Dress


Forgot to share today’s outfit! We ran late for church this morning but glad to have outfits I can chuck on and know they look decent. 😂 wearing an @adriftclothing #ots dress with @thousandislandpaddington necklace and shoes from @styletread #gifted. Hope you’ve had a great Sunday. #everydaystyle #sharedmystyle #repeatedmystyle #thirtyplusstyle #thirtyplusdailystyle #thirtyplusstyleblogger by @styled_by_bec

2. Cold Shoulder Dress


Heading to church this morning in this cool dress by @surafina. Wearing @houseofharlow1960 necklace and @samanthawills ring. #everydaystyle #sharedmystyle #imprettychuffed #repeatedmystyle #casualchic #thirtyplusstyle #thirtyplusstyleblogger by @styled_by_bec

3. Maxi Dress


Today’s #everydaystyle I’m wearing my favourite maxi dress from @lazybonesaustralia with some beaded necklaces I bought from a market at Lennox Head. Shoes are from @airflexshoes last year. #thirtyplusstyle #casualstyle #maxidress #vintagestyle #summerfashion by @styled_by_bec

4. Striped Tee Dress


Today’s outfit is one you’ve seen before. I’m tired and so glad the weekend is here! Hope you’re all staying cool in this heat. #everydaystyle #repeatedmystyle #sharedmystyle #casualstyle #teedress #mumfashion #stripesforthewin by @styled_by_bec

5. Kaftan


Running late today for an epic day of church then connect group at our house and then a BBQ at Maggie’s Kindy. The year is definitely in full swing! Wearing a @vizcosa Kaftan #gifted to keep me cool, with @thousandislandpaddington necklace and @airflexshoes. #repeatedmystyle #everydaystyle #sharedmystyle #thirtyplusstyle #vizcosathelabel by @styled_by_bec

6. Shift Dress


We had a great family day today. I love having weekends together. Wearing a favourite dress today from @elmlifestyle with @seedheritage shoes. Earrings made by @alcowan. #everydaystyle #casualoutfit #repeatedmystyle #sharedmystyle #thirtyplusdailystyle #thirtyplusstyleblogger by @styled_by_bec

7. Chambray Dress


I forgot to share yesterday’s #everydaystyle photo because I had a sick Esther. I thought we’d got gastro back in the house again 🤦‍♀️but turns out it was just an ear infection. This photo was from last night after going to my first P&C meeting at school. Wearing a @blue.illusion chambray dress with @seedheritage shoes and a necklace I got given from a close friend for Valentine’s Day. #sharedmystyle #repeatedmystyle #thirtyplusstyle #thirtyplusdailystyle #thirtyplusstyleblogger by @styled_by_bec

What dresses are on high rotation in your wardrobe?

Disclosure: There are affiliate links on this post. Should you choose to purchase an item, I will receive a small commission at not extra cost to you.

Everyday Summer Dresses Under $100

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One of my favourite outfits in summer is the everyday dress. I love that I can chuck the dress on and be ready in minutes. I have a big selection of everyday dresses that I rotate in my wardrobe, but it’s only been recently that I have realized I don’t wear them often enough. I often revert to some sort of tee and short combo because I know I will be on the floor playing with my girls, but on the days we head out to the shops or meet up with other mummy friends, the dress will always be my first choice in outfit.

When I purchase an everyday dress, I don’t spend more than $100 simply because it’s going to be worn everyday, and I prefer to spend more on evening or special occasion dresses.

While I was researching some dresses for a different blog post, I compiled a collage of everyday summer dresses under $100.

Everday Dresses for under $100

1. French Connection Stripe SS Dress $99.95

2. Sunny Girl Office to Bar Dress $59

3. Sunny Girl Tie Dress $59

4. Dotti Love the Boat Maxi Dress $79.95

5. Adrift Oracle Lucy Dress in Orange $99.95

6. One Honey Boutique Lucy Shirt Dress $49

7. ASOS Shift Dress in Mono Stripe $36

8. Alessi Floral Dress $79.95

9. Sunny Girl Border Dress $55

There is nothing much more to add except to buy your everyday dresses well. For a versatile piece, buy a button or zip down dress that can be worn open with pants as a trench or vest. Number 6 would be perfect for this type of outfit.

Also, sometimes it’s hard to tell on the model, but check the hem of your chosen dress to ensure you will be comfortable with the length. Nothing worse than buying an everyday dress that stays in your wardrobe because it’s too short.

If you liked this post, you might like to check out my post on Christmas Day dresses to camouflage a full tummy.

Disclaimer: There are affiliate links on this post. Should you choose to purchase an item, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Casual Christmas Day Dresses to Camouflage a Full Tummy

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Over the years I have learned the importance of wearing something comfortable for Christmas Day.

I generally buy a new dress to wear for Christmas Day, and this year has been no different as I’ve invested in a kaftan that’s bright and breezy.

In years past I have worn a strapless dress, jumpsuit and short jumpsuit/romper. All of which I had to keep adjusting while celebrating Christmas. The year I wore a romper, I changed out of it by 10am because the shorts were too short and I couldn’t handle the amount of leg I was showing as I bent down to help my girls open their presents.

My tips on choosing a casual dress for Christmas day is buying a dress that will skim and flow over your tummy and hips. Kaftans work especially well for Christmas Day.

As much as I love a jumpsuit, I can’t stand having to completely undress while going to the toilet. But it is a great alternative to the dress if you don’t mind the bathroom situation.

I suggest you choose a dress that is comfortable and doesn’t require straps to be adjusted.

Knee length dresses (or maxis) are perfect for being able to get on the floor with the kids to help them unwrap gifts.

I’ve collated some gorgeous casual Christmas dresses to camouflage a full tummy. A dress that gathers under at the empire line and has a print will hide any extra bulges created from the day.

 If you are still needing to buy a new dress to wear for Christmas Day, ensure you do it soon as it was hard to curate a selection of dresses with all the sizes still available. It seems most women are already on the hunt for that perfect dress for this season.

Casual Christmas Day Dresses 2015

1. Freez Flirty Dress $59

2. Globetrotter by Ruby Yaya Mocha Sayonara Dress $149.95

3. Ruby Yaya Holi Shibori Dress in Navy $109.95

4. ASOS Vila All Over Crochet White Dress $81.00

5. Globetrotter by Ruby Yaya Konya Gucci Dress $149.95

6. Nest Picks White Embroidered Dress $69.95

7. The Iconic Olivia Kaftan in Black $99.95

8. Katies Border Print Kaftan Dress $69.95

9. The Iconic Ici Et La Kaftan $89.95 (on sale)

10. Seafolly City Limits Dress $139.95

What are you wearing on Christmas Day? Have you thought about it yet or are you all sorted?

I’m linking with Essentially Jess for IBOT.

Disclaimer: There are affiliate links on this post. Should you choose to purchase an item, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

 

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