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WIW: an attempt at de-frumping ETA: proposed shape

amiable

Veteran

I have this slinky-knit ink midi tank dress. I think it looks pretty dated ('cause it is) and frumpy. But it's nice and cool in the summer, and my kids LOVE it. (They like the feel of the slinky knit).

In an attempt to make it wearable, I topped it with a tank. Or a linen shirt. (I'm wearing the tank today - I thought it was more wearable than the linen shirt).

Does it come anywhere close to working? What are your suggestions? I could shorten it to knee length, or turn it into just a skirt, maybe? Is this dress de-frumpable?

ETA: I'll cut it to the shape of this orange one (#4) and see what I think. I'm not sure it'll do the trick, but I like the idea of the hem on the orange one

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17 replies

Latest reply was from Lantana

Anonymous

I would make the hem high-low. I think that would update it!

Sara L.

Veteran

I think it looks better with the linen shirt over it, but hemming it shorter would do a lot to defrump it.

harmonica

Veteran

I like the high-low hem idea!

Anonymous

i prefer the linen over it too and I agree with Ceit, how about a high-low hem?

Jules

Veteran

I'd prefer to see it with a stuctured topper, like a denim jacket (which seems to be the only thing I suggest to anyone lately, plus not so cool on a hot day anymore, so perhaps not a valuable suggestion....). Not sure the tank works because of the different neck/strap lines. And maybe sandals or wedges for footwear.

Suz

(website)

Veteran

I would try shortening to see how it works that way. Hi-low first, and if you don't like that, cut it shorter all round.

rachylou

Veteran

I like the hi-low idea a whole lot, but I think it's the neckline that's the iffy part.

catgirl

Veteran

I think the whole thing is dated. Sorry! I have a tunic top in this style (Softwear?) and occasionally throw it on, but always feel a little too much like I'm in travel catalog coordinates.

amiable

Veteran

Travel catalog coordinates! Yes - that's exactly what it makes me feel like (And probably what drew me to it in the first place - I've always had a liking for those catalogs for some reason).

I'll play with the hem, but wont' be too sad if it's just not salvageable

amiable

Veteran

I'm thinking I'll try the hem in this shape. Would that suitably update it? My crewneck isn't as high as DKNY's, but otherwise, I think the shape of the dresses is similar. I'll likely go longer than they did though....

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DonnaF

Veteran

Hmmm. Because of the rounded and low shape of the neckline, I'm wondering if a symmetrical hi-low with the shortness in the front might work better?

donnat

Veteran

I am thinking hi lo hem. If that doesn't work go for shortening

catgirl

Veteran

I'm drawn to them too - I used to pore over the Travelsmith catalog (those two-in-one dresses that you can turn inside out! The all-purpose black pants!). But they do have a certain frump factor IRL.

Beth Ann

Veteran

Ah yes! Travel knit! Such a guilty pleasure! What about a substantial belt, with a little blousing above the waist?

lyn67

Veteran

Linen shirt and knotted under the breast, pls:-)

Deborah

Veteran

I feel this is dated and not much will save it:(. The neckline is not your most flattering...I think I would pop it on the donate pile. You have other much lovelier things:)

Lantana

Veteran

It might feel nice but this dress has nowhere near the appeal of your fab outfits. I'm dubious that shortening or changing the hemline will rescue it because of the neckline-unless you alter that as well to reveal more clavicle.
Since the kids like the fabric, how about giving it to them for their dress ups box?