Photos by Riss Rahm
Outfit Details: BP floral dress, Coach handbag, Target ballet flats (old, similar here)
The feminine color palette and silhouette of this dress lured me in from across the Nordstrom women’s section a couple weeks ago. I couldn’t resist. Yes, I had lots of dresses hanging in my closet at home, but one thing I’ve learned is I can never have too many. And while my first summer in Arizona has only reinforced that theory, the main reasons I often chose to wear a dress go beyond my hatred for pants on a 107 degree day.
1. Dress shopping is more enjoyable
I love dresses because, for me, they call for way less thought than shopping for pants. Why? Shorts make me feel self-conscious (anyone else hate their thighs?) and we all know how fun it is to find a pair of jeans that fit. With dresses, I can almost always tell if one will be flattering before trying it on based on the silhouette, which eliminates frustration in the dressing room. So, while I may have lots of dresses, I only own one pair of shorts and three pairs of jeans – simply because finding figure-flattering dresses is easier.
Pro tip: Look for dresses that emphasize the waist and flare out slightly. An A-line silhouette is flattering on almost all body types.
2. Dresses CAN be comfortable
People often think of dresses as being fancier than pants and therefore uncomfortable – that doesn’t have to be the case. A breezy cotton dress can be just as comfy as a cotton T-shirt and sweats. Like with any piece of clothing, it’s important to test a dress’ comfortability in the fitting room. No joke: I walk around, sit down and twirl a time or two to make sure I like the way the dress feels on before purchasing it.
3. A dress will make you feel more put together
Do I like spending lots of time getting ready in the mornings? Most days, no. I usually throw on some powder and mascara, toss my wet hair in a bun and call it good. But no matter how little time I spend getting ready, I instantly feel 10 times more confident when I throw on a sundress. People take notice too. Last week, a woman checking out in front of me in the grocery store line turned around and said, “I just have to say, I love your dress.” And nothing makes a trip to the store more enjoyable than an unexpected compliment from a stranger. Nothing.
Shop the Look
This is the perfect outfit for a bridal shower, brunch or another daytime event. Since a floral dress makes a statement on its own, I paired it with my favorite neutral handbag and a simple pair of ballet flats from Target – the flats are no longer available but I also love this beige pair just as much.