When I saw this dress three summers ago, it immediately reminded me of something that Charlotte York would wear. I saw that it came in tall and in that moment, I knew I wanted, needed, had to have this gingham confection. I just could not just pass it up. Along with three other shift dresses, my would-be upper east side gallery director capsule wardrobe was complete.
This dress was re-released this year in both of the original colorways from summer 2017, albeit in a larger gingham. The tall and petite sizing options, however were produced for this season, even in the skirt version. Even though I do not love how popular the gingham has become, I nevertheless love the print.
As with all hemlines, proportions for this dress are key in selecting the ideal footwear. I love that this dress works with a pair of high heels in an office or barefoot on a deck, accessorized with a glass of rose. I would completely skip wearing a pair of ballet flats or flat sandals with this dress, as a zero heel is not exactly flattering with an above the knee hemline, even for those topping six feet tall.
West coast is not exactly a hotbed for the preppy aesthetic, so sporting the style is just another way to stand out. I know I have to regularly rededicate myself to this effort but I am making headbands happen this summer, even if the influence is only evident on my blog and social media channels. I dug out my headbands for our trip to California; any of my sartorial crowns in summer hues made the cut. This is the classic example of minimal effort, high reward.