Last weekend I flipped my closet from autumn/winter to spring/summer. Whenever I do that, I edit out pieces that no longer serve me and assess my wardrobe gaps for the upcoming season (just like I do for my clients)!

With the unknowns of the healthcare crisis surrounding us, my spring and summer wish list looks a little different this year. Many of my clients and friends have canceled trips and special events, concerts and music festivals have postponed indefinitely and even the potential of going out to dinner seems questionable at the moment. So what is it that we’ll be dressing for? My guess is still a lot of time at home, so I’ve decided to focus on updating my casual wardrobe. There’s nothing I love more than a casual dress in the hot summer sun! Is this finally the moment I can live that Mrs. Roper-caftan-life I’ve been dreaming of?!

*My favorite vintage caftan! Scored from a vintage shop in Chicago. The best ones are always at vintage stores and flea markets, but you can occasionally get lucky on Etsy or Ebay too.*

A dress is an effortless, easy piece for spring and summer dressing, but there are still pitfalls when looking for the perfect one. If you’re the type that throws everything in the washer and dryer (hello moms of young kids!), make sure you check the fabric and laundering instructions before you buy. Linen, cotton and rayon are susceptible to shrinkage and are common warm-weather fabrics.

*Cotton tank dress is machine washable and the ruching on the side is super flattering! Michael Stars, $88.*

Balance and proportion is important no matter what you wear, but there are a couple of tips to keep in mind when searching for a flattering dress. For petites, I typically think shorter dress styles work better. Longer maxi lengths can be overwhelming. If you insist on a longer style, look for petite fit. There will be less volume and length creating a better proportion for you. Speaking of longer lengths…

*This textured shift dress gives me vintage Palm Beach vibes! Available in standard, petite and plus sizes at Anthropologie, $158.*

Be wary of maxi and midi style dresses in stiff fabrics or blocky cuts. The most flattering long dresses are cut on the bias, which means the fabric grain lays diagonally and will skim over curves and add fluid movement. Fabric choice is everything when choosing maxi and midi lengths!

*Xirena is one of my favorite brands for summer dresses and tops. Their signature cotton gauze (shown here) is soft and light weight without being too sheer. Meridien Oaklyn Dress, $249.*

*FarmRio offers striking, playful prints and lots of flattering maxi styles. This would look great dressed up with heels and a bold earring too! Carnival Maxi Dress, $200.*

Whether you prefer mini, midi or maxi. I’ve gathered lots of dresses with a little something for everyone! I chose to focus on more casual styles that are appropriate for easy, at-home wear, but several options can be glammed up by swapping a flip-flop for a chunky heel or adding a statement accessory!

While I’ve highlighted some of my favs, click on the bottom board to take you to even more options. Want styles that are personally crafted for you body, budget and lifestyle? Message me for a virtual consultation and custom wardrobe board!

Thanks for your continued encouragement and support during these uncertain times. Do you have a wardrobe dilemma you’d like addressed? Let me know, I’m here to help!

With Sincerity and Style,

Xx Amanda

All Dressed Up...