Have you ever been so drawn to something, thinking “that's my style, I must have it” only to get it and then have second doubts. Not because the outfit isn't your style or isn't gorgeous, but because you worry about much you'll stand out in it. This can't-miss-me dress gave me those feelings.
Coupon alert (they don't do coupons often anymore!): 20% Off Your $125+ order with code: SUMMERFAVE, ends 6/8!
Lele Sadoughi earrings from my Rent the Runway subscription, or for purchase here. Budget-friendly earring option here.
Disclosure: I was gifted this dress by ELOQUII and this post contains affiliate links. All opinions, as always, are my own.
I fight wallflower tendencies regularly. Having felt “other” my whole life as a fat person, the desire to blend in has been learned over the decades. The saying “why fit in when you can stand out” didn't make sense to me, at least from a physical perspective. I didn't want my clothes to be out of place, despite having to shop at stores my mom shopped at, way before they became more fashion-forward.
These days, my eyes are drawn to pieces that I couldn't have imagined being available in plus sizes even 5 years ago. Staples are one thing, but special pieces are so fun and I'm immediately drawn to them. This dress screams unique. Between the vibrant pattern, detail upon detail, and shoulder-baring silhouette, it's impossible to be a wallflower.
I put this dress on and my mood instantly lifted. *sparks joy* why yes, this dress does. As soon as I start to walk out of the house, however, my mind jumps in with “girl, why are you about to draw all the attention to yourself! Blend baby, blend!”
Very old clutch, similar
Peonies from my garden!
I'm working on removing those negative voices that tell me to stay a wallflower, because I don't think that's really who I am. Fashion is one of my favorite forms of expression, but that does no good if I'm the only one to see it!
So here's to wearing more pieces that spark joy, make me want to twirl, and be a wallflower no longer.
Fit notes: I got this in a size 28 because it's 100% cotton with no stretch and I was concerned about it fitting in the waist. I could have gotten the 26, so I'd say it's true to size.
ELOQUII coupon alert (they don't do them often anymore)
20% Off Your $125+ order with code: SUMMERFAVE, ends 6/8! I've linked some of my absolute favorites from them below.
Stripe Wrap Midi Skirt
- Wear as shown with basic black tank
- Add a denim jacket to this look with flats or sneakers for casual wear
- Wear to work with a crisp black button down top and pumps
Flare Sleeve Dress (many colors and prints)
- This dress is so versatile from going out with friends to owning a meeting at work.
- Scuba material is comfortable, wrinkle free, and washes easily.
- Add pumps and long layered necklaces to look perfectly polished.
Puff Sleeve Dress (also in navy)
- The structure makes the statement but the solid color makes it classic.
- Go super sleek as styled here with simple gold accessories and heels.
- Or, really go bold with bright statement earrings like these (blue and green or pink and green are my favorite combos!)
Striped Dolman Sleeve Wrap Dress
- This dress was featured in my last post.
- It makes a statement on its own, so simple accessories are totally ok!
- Or, you could accessorize using colors pulled from the stripes.
