This frock outfit is little sister to the one I posted last week with big white sneakers and backpack. The vibe is almost as casual, but less sporty and a lot prettier. Topshop’s Boutique Silk Shirt Dress is the other dress I bought for summer. Its strict shirt integrity, luxurious fabric, longer sleeves, and sufficient length made it love at first sight. I also like the interesting breast pockets, the concealed button-stand that creates a vertical line down the front of the dress, and the way a softer shade of dark blue is created in sunlight.
Unlike the denim shirt dress, which I altered to look different from how it was styled by the retailer, I wear this dress exactly as the online photo suggests: buttoned to the top and hanging like a shapeless sack. Wearing it with a belt would ruin the angular drape of the dress that I find so appealing. Wearing it with a topper would further ruin the silhouette. The dress looks best on its own and is therefore reserved for hot days without the arctic chill of air conditioning.
Despite the billowing volume of the dress, there are two reasons I don’t feel like it’s wearing me. First, the silk is as light as a feather, which makes the dress look and feel dainty. The lightweight silk moves and drapes into all sorts of shapes, much like a flag blowing in the wind, which is why I call this my Flag Dress. A heavier cotton would not create the same type of movement that is a feature of this dress. And second, there is just enough structure created by the snug neckline fit, tapered elbow sleeves, and above-the-knee length. The immense volume also creates a slight asymmetrical line and tapering on the hem, which creates further structure.
The shirt dress is made of dressy fabric, which makes heeled sandals and ankle strap pumps a good complement. But I haven’t worn it that way yet, and don’t know if I will. So far I’m more interested in styling it with a casual support act to create a modern and fashionable 2014 juxtaposition. This is the exact same dress that I used in three casual ensembles a few months ago, where I combined it with white sneakers and a backpack. Here I’m wearing casual white loafers instead of sneakers, but carrying the same backpack.
I love the outfit with white sneakers, but slightly prefer the loafers. These loafers have become workhorses that I wear many times a week. I find white more versatile than metallic shoes, probably because they make me happier and so I gravitate to them more frequently. Silver watch and wedding ring are all I need in the jewellery department.
A breezy dress made of a natural fibre is an extremely ventilating outfit option for a hot Summer’s day. Pairing it with comfortable walking shoes, a practical bag and sunglasses means I am ready to walk for miles in the heat and enjoy every second of it. A dress with billowing volume is not a conventionally flattering silhouette and quite the acquired taste. But there is something liberating and fun about delicate silk swooshing around as you stride.
