Shopping News
Fit & Flare
Style.com features a fabulous trend piece this week--one with historic roots, too. The "fit-and-flare" dress was a popular style in the 1950's and it's come and gone several times since then. I find this feminine silhouette both sensual and sweet. It's tight enough on top to reveal the tiniest part of most women--the waist. But the drama in the skirt means it can cover a heavier bottom half. Yet, it's just as attractive on willowy women as it is on curvier gals. Even more importantly, the fit-and-flare swishes when you walk and twirls when you dance, meaning everyone in the room--or on the street--will take notice. In elegant fabrics, it makes for a perfect date night frock. Classic wool or cotton varieties are a great choice for a business meeting or power lunch, and no matter what fabric you choose, your in-laws (or potential in-laws!) will love it. What could be better than that? And while style.com's top picks are of the Givenchy, Derek Lam, and Oscar de la Renta variety, you mustn't fret. Many low- and mid-priced brands are turning out affordable fit-and-flares right now to meet every girl's budget. Here are some of the best.
Top Shop takes the guesswork out of your search by breaking down their dresses online according to shape, and "Fit-and-Flare" gets its own rightful section. They're all beautiful, but this "navy spot" option is a clear winner with three-quarter length sleeves and a darling polka dot motif throughout. Not only is it irresistibly feminine, its aesthetic is a perfect blend of modern and vintage. You can wear this to work, dinner, or anywhere else you day demands you to go. At a cool $70, this is a reasonably priced dress that looks like a million bucks.
British brand ASOS is now offering free standard shipping to the US, as if you didn't already have enough reasons to shop this cool-girl site. This beautiful "skater" dress is sure to have you dancing all night long. Available in black, cream, and a perfect rosy pink, this is a basic fit-and-flare that you will wear over and over again. If you're concerned the length is too risque for work, just wear a long-sleeved tee underneath and pair it with black tights and flats. Bonus: the same exact one is available in their Petites section, should you be too tiny for regular sizes! $71.62, asos.com.
This sweet "painted rose" dress from fast fashion brand Forever 21 is an absolute must. At only $22.80, the price is unheard of. The red is a great shade that works on most skin tones, and the elegant hand-painted rose aesthetic is feminine without going over the top. I'm seeing this one as the perfect dress for a date in Central Park, a brunch with girlfriends, and tons of other spring fun. Once again, Forever 21 proves their ability to turn out perfectly on-trend basics at amazing prices. Visit forever21.com for store locations and to purchase. And treat yourself to a few more of their cute spring dresses, too. At these prices, how could anyone resist?
If you're bummed out thinking that your pretty new fit-and-flare will have to wait till spring to make its smashing debut, you might just be wrong. Depending on the color and fabric of the dress you chose, it most likely will look lovely with black tights and a patent leather pump. If you opt for a lighter-weight dress with a pale color scheme, you can wear it with pale gray tights and nude pumps now. Just make sure to throw a pale pink or white cardigan on to avoid any chill at the office/dinner party/restaurant. And let the dress do the rest.
Photo Credit: Forever 21
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