Deep Within the Armoire Dress

A few years ago, I attended the Rachel Whiteread lecture at the Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Whiteread, a British artist best known for her large-scale sculptures, gave a truly aspirational speech, which touched upon her artistic motivations and sources of inspiration. She attributed much of her current inspiration to her childhood, and admitted that, as a young girl, she would hide under her parent’s bed or within a large armoire “to feel safe.” I immedia... More

A few years ago, I attended the Rachel Whiteread lecture at the Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Whiteread, a British artist best known for her large-scale sculptures, gave a truly aspirational speech, which touched upon her artistic motivations and sources of inspiration. She attributed much of her current inspiration to her childhood, and admitted that, as a young girl, she would hide under her parent’s bed or within a large armoire “to feel safe.” I immediately related to Whiteread’s telling anecdote. I, too, found comfort within the claustrophobic nooks and crannies of my childhood home. It was in those confined, cozy spots that I felt relaxed, independent, and at ease during times of stress or despondency. This gorgeous, 3/4 length sleeve dress from Australian designer Valerie Tolosa - and featured in InStyle - reminds me of a garment that would stately hang from the back of a cherry oak armoire. Its broad scoop neck, silky smooth lining, and discreet back zip cultivate a classic silhouette, while the ornate white lace overlay of the skirt and fanciful bow at the waist’s center offer Victorian refinement. For a look that will inspire everyone’s creative side, slip this dark grey dress on with crocheted knee high socks, Mary Janes, a veiled fascinator, and an abundance of pearl accessories. -Annie, Fashion Writer