This time last year, I was feeling the pangs of jealousy over all the pretty dresses I saw on my friends. Every wardrobe is a work in progress, mine included. I am a pants gal. It is no secret I love a great pair of pants and jeans. However, my jealousy told me it was time to find dresses and skirts that would add easy elegance and more balance to my wardrobe.
As we closed out 2023, I resolved to nip my dress jealousy in the bud by focusing on dresses in 2024. When I have a wardrobe assignment, I execute! Halfway into the year, I have added several dresses as you see in this post, as well as two fun skirts that add spice and interest to my daily rotation. To purchase the skirt below (available in many colors), go here.
I am loving this switch to my summer look. If you need more convincing that the dress is a good idea for your wardrobe, keep reading.
Comfort in the Heat
Many of us have already experienced our first summer heat wave, although the official start to summer is still two days away. Since COVID, the same word comes up with most of my clients: comfort. Unlike pants, dresses allow for better air circulation. Lightweight fabrics such as cotton, Tensel, and linen are breathable and help with temperature regulation. This makes dresses an excellent choice for staying comfortable in sweltering heat.
Versatility and Style
Dresses are always an appropriate choice. Regardless of the occasion, there’s a dress to suit it. Beach or pool party – check. Lunch or brunch – check. Cocktail or a formal event – check. Some styles are easier to find right now than others. My style is not frilly or overly feminine, and the current selection in many stores and boutiques lean in the “poofy” and “baby doll” direction. Depending on your style, it may require more hunting to find a dress that effortlessly expresses your personal style. But the hunt is worth it.
Easy Elegance
Another recurring theme besides “comfort” that comes up in my conversations with my clients is they need it to be easy to get dressed each day. There is truly nothing easier than a one-piece outfit. Add your favorite jewelry and sandals, and you are done. With separates, there’s always the question of which top goes with which bottom. The simplicity of dresses not only saves time, but it also ensures that you always look put together with minimal effort. I think this is what I was loving about my friends’ dresses outfits. They looked so chic and pretty. The inherent elegance of a well-chosen dress can make you look and feel polished and sophisticated, even on the hottest days.
Freedom of Movement
While shorts or pants often come to mind when getting dressed for outdoor activities, many things we do outdoors are dress friendly: picnicking in the park, strolling through the farmers markets, or spending the day at the beach or poolside. As long as your dress is flowy and looser-fitting, it is a smart choice for active summer days.
Boost in Confidence
Honestly, wearing my new dresses has put a little pep in my step. Dresses are a confidence-booster when you choose the right shape for your shape. When you feel great in what you are wearing, it changes how you interact with others and how you tackle your tasks. Many dresses come in fun colors and playful patterns, which bring a sense of joy and lightness to your image.
Eco-Friendly Styles
It would not be a proper “Bethany Siggins” post without mentioning brands that offer eco-friendly options. A few of my favorites include Cleobella, Mille and Faherty. Natural fibers like organic cotton, bamboo, and hemp are better for the environment and comfortable in hot weather. Whenever possible, shop sustainable brands first. For your convenience, I have created a summer dress shopping widget here. The two dresses I’m wearing in this post are sold out; however, the cream dress above is available in a shorter style, which I linked in the shopping widget.
Which Shoes?
Dresses go well with a variety of shoes (even sneakers!), although once is it warmer, my go to style is a comfortable, sporty sandal like Sorel (photo above) or a flat sandal by Frankie 4 (photo above) or Sam Edelman. For your ease of shopping, I have created a widget with a variety of sandals from Sorel and Sam Edelman. Shop the widget here. If you want a closer look at the boots I’m wearing in these photos, go here.
Finish with a Woven Bag
Like shoes, there are many styles of handbag that work beautifully with dresses. However, my current personal favorite styles are woven leather bags, as well as straw and raffia. Shop my woven bag widget here. The handbag here is the Esmeralda by Mirta, purchased for my birthday three years ago.
Need Help?
If the idea of adding dresses to your wardrobe appeals to you, but you are not sure where and how to start, message me. I am here to make the style part of your life easy and stress free. Wishing you a comfortable, stylish and effortless summer season!
Shopping Widgets
A note about the shopping widgets provided in this post. Some of the links in the widgets pay me a small commission when you purchase directly from the links. This is always appreciated and one small way of supporting my business. Thank you.
