Romantic details
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, I wanted to share an outfit (or more like outfit details) I’ve been loving lately.
While I definitely don’t shy away from, or dislike wearing red on this day (or any other really), I wanted to change it up a bit and go for something I don’t wear a lot — neutrals. But, make it fun neutrals.
While wandering a local store a while back, I came across this flower applique shirt. In truth, it was not something I would normally reach for, but in that moment, it spoke to me. And I bought it specifically for wearing it as pictured — over a dress. In my mind, I saw it worn over a strapless dress but soon found that it works with several. And months later, when I bought this pictured dress, they became a perfect match.
About this dress… It’s by J.Crew from last year (hence, sold out) and I have a love-hate relationship with it.
I obviously adore the skirt — it’s flowy, voluminous, has a good weight, and has pockets. The top, however, is a whole other story. It’s made of stretchy, fairly thin cami/tank-type fabric, which doesn’t hold its shape. On top of it all, because the skirt has some weight, it drags the top down.
This dress would have been much better if the top was, at the very least, thicker. It would have been perfect had they made it entirely of poplin. Alas, I bought it at a major sale, so I can’t complain much. Especially, as obviously, I made it work. And I do feel lovely in it.
J.Crew brought back a version of this dress with a little bit less-flowy skirt, and what looks like a thicker fabric in the top. It still has pockets and is overall, a flattering dress, if you’re interested. This is another dress in a somewhat similar style (with puff sleeves) but made of poplin.
If you have a dress with a top you don’t love or want to add a bit of interest to it, may I suggest covering it up with an applique detail or lace top? A cropped style would be ideal, however, if you come across one you love, and it’s a bit longer, tie it as I did, or cinch it with a belt for an effortlessly chic look.
Here are some options below (or check them out here).
