For the longest time, I disliked the mixed-media dress trend that’s been everywhere lately. It finally won me over because, from what I’ve seen, these dresses usually come with voluminous and flowy skirts. And we know I’m all about that! So here’s to another trend that’s grown on me.

Full outfit details: dress (TTS), similar here, here, and here (TTS, though I’d recommend sizing down if you want a more fitted look); woven leather basket bag (currently on sale!); shoes (TTS; on sale and selling out); sunglasses (currently on sale); straw belt.

I have been eyeing several dresses in this style (like this mock neck J.Crew one and this with the sweetheart neckline) over these last few months but I wasn’t fully sold on the colors. While I undoubtedly have added black and cream in my closet this year (colors I have avoided), I don’t want them to overtake it. I needed a few basic colors to wear my colorful scarf collection in cooler weather, and that was that — I do not intend to fully transition to neutrals.

Anyway, I am much more accepting of navy and I would have bought those two dresses mentioned above in a heartbeat, had they been available in this color. But alas…

Since I have been window-shopping on Instagram recently, I’ve been targeted with ads from various retailers, especially ones I haven’t even heard about or shopped at before.

Gap was a store I don’t remember shopping at before, but when I saw this dress in one of those ads, I fell for it. Hard, obviously, as I ended up buying it. But it fits all the boxes. Navy. Check! Flattering silhouette? Check! Pockets? CHECK! I couldn’t stop thinking about it, so I went for it.

I have to admit I was a bit surprised with it when I received it. The reviews were somewhat inconsistent and I was nervous about the size. I initially wanted to order it in medium size, because I didn’t want the top to be too tight, but at the last minute, changed to small. And I was right to do so.

I find this dress to fit true to size, and I would not recommend sizing up. The top is stretchy and might stretch even more with wear. By sizing up, you risk the armholes being too big/open.

I did not find the mock neck to be bothersome, and I think it can be slightly stretched manually for added comfort. And for those of you not fully sold on the full skirt trend, this dress is perfect as it doesn’t have too much fabric.

The fabric is nice — soft on the top and with a nice weight in the skirt, however, it feels lightweight. It’s unlined but you don't have to worry about it being see-through. And yes, it has generous side pockets!

Scroll below for ideas on how to style it.

How to style it

Overall, I am in love with this dress as it’s versatile and it’s a great choice for any season in Florida, and for spring-fall seasons anywhere else.

I think it will look amazing with a jean jacket if that is your style, a tweed jacket for a more elegant style, or a cropped sweater for a casual outfit. Of course, you can always wear a sweater over your shoulders for an effortlessly chic look — I bought this striped cardigan for this purpose and love how soft it is.

As far as shoes, I think this dress will go with just about any style, from booties to sneakers to strappy sandals. And also my very favorite shoes, of course!

Don’t forget accessories — I think this dress looks best worn with a straw (I’m wearing this style), or a leather belt.

I hope you love this mixed-media dress as much as I do!