Summer by the Shore Dress

I'm really impressed with the Summer by the Shore dress. For less than fifty bucks, this heavyweight jersey number is a winner! Since I've had trouble with the junior's sizing from Modcloth before (especially re: length and bust!) I decided not to size down. The fit in the chest is great in XL for my 38-40D chest, and the seaming on the bodice is particularly flattering. At 5'5" the length is perfect, just above the knee but seems a bit shorter since there is so much swing to the skirt. However, the details were not kidding about the waist being big. The product shots look like a fit and flare shape, the reality is more of an empire attached to a trapeze- a very exaggerated A line suspended from the bust, ie, no waist at all. It gives a nicely flattering effect of not contouring to any less than flat areas you'd rather conceal, especially nice as jersey can cling like a mofo. I was particularly pleased with the care given to matching the stripes at the seams, they did a great job lining everything up nicely. I graded down a star on quality only for the sad, fraying rope at the neckline and dry clean only tag, but other than that the only thing I'd have liked is a couple patch pockets on the front.

I LOVE wearing this dress. It is very summery, but I put a navy blazer over top and it is a very professional look as well.

Another dress that I really wanted to love but it didn't work out.