So last night I attended a Banana republic VIP fashion event that was both showcasing the new Spring/Summer collection and also raising money for the Dress for Success charity.
Before I go any further about what I wore, I want to quickly talk about this awesome charity. These guys are quietly doing some amazing work helping women who are down on their luck, dress and look the part for their job interviews and consequently when they get the job. Check out their site if you get a chance, I’ve linked to it above. You can donate clothes, your time or money, it’s such a worthwhile cause. Ok I’ve done my little plug, back to the fashion:-)
Now, obviously I wasn’t there as a VIP guest (I wish)! Hmmmmn I’m kind of selling myself a little short here, I just realised. I mean, why wouldn’t I be there as a VIP guest? I can be vip too, if I want to right? Who gets to decide things anyway! Alas on this occasion I was in work mode, I got lost a little in all that vip talk, let me regroup and carry on, *deep breathe*. Phew, ok so I was on the clock, modelling the spring/summer collection for their VIPs. What usually happens, (to me anyway) on these kind of jobs, is that half the time I don’t like the clothes they make me wear so I literally just pretend that I look like a million bucks, whilst counting down till I can take it off and wear my own stuff;-). Oops, I guess I shouldn’t really say that should I? Maybe I should rephrase that to be a little more ‘PC’……..nah, on second thoughts maybe not. Moving right along……
Believe it or not, I’m actually wearing two dresses, in the picture. I’m wearing a belted ‘trench inspired’, dress in washed stone, and underneath that is diamond eyelet lace over a strappy fit-and-flare frock. Did I mention how much I LOVE this outfit? It makes me feel flirty, sophisticated and grown up in a good way.
Let’s start with the belted trench dress then….I love the versatility of this dress. It’s a great piece to wear on its own and also for layering. I can already see myself dressing it up with some heels, or down with some jeans and sneakers. The material is modal, which is a kind of man-made material. It’s a variation of rayon, It’s more absorbent than cotton or other synthetic fabrics. It also takes dye well, and is very colorfast. It has a soft, slinky texture, making it comfortable to wear. I’m absolutely in love with the texture of the fabric, much softer and feels nicer on the skin. Retail price is £85, I’m wearing a UK size 8 Tall in this one.
Next up is the black diamond eyelet dress, which I just love! It’s fun, flirty and also chic. Again, like the belted trench dress, there’s so many ways to wear this dress for any occasion, so it’s really a nice piece to have in the wardrobe. It is partially lined, the lining is actually a separate piece that comes apart from the dress. I love the cap sleeves, they’re so flattering for the arms, if you’re anything like me or half the female population that can be a problem area. The v-neck shape also flatters the bust area really nicely. The waist is elasticized and sits exactly where it’s supposed to, with sash belt just tying the whole look up. It retails at £110 and I’m wearing a UK size 6 Tall in this one.
The shoes I’m wearing are my own, from French Connection. I got them about 5 years ago at their sample sale for £5, can you believe it? I love bargain finds like that!
So that’s what I wore to the event, and I really DID feel like a million bucks. These items were kindly gifted to me by Banana Republic (perks of the job eh;-)), but this blog post was not commissioned and is 100% just my own opinions.
So what do you think of the outfit? Would you wear it? Let me know in the comments below. And as always, if you like this post, be a doll and share it with your friends.
Till next time, Love the life you’re living! Xo
I’m dedicated to wellness, constantly striving to be my best self while inspiring others to do the same. Embracing my journey, flaws and all, I’m committed to biohacking for a healthier, longer life—so I can be a present mama for my kids and inspire others to authentically live their best lives too. 💫
Ooo looks like a lovely outfit I love the underneath dress the most.
That’s my favourite of the two as well Terri. x
Love the black dress and totally adore the shoes
Heather Simpson recently posted…Crows Feet and Crinkles – Is Plastic Surgery Just For The Rich and Famous?
Thanks Heather, the shoes were definitely a great steal. X
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My fav is the trench! X
One of my favourite things about fashion is the versatility that pieces can offer. I love what you did with both pieces, and I’m sure they also look lovely together. Dress for Success sounds like a wonderful charity.
Donating clothes to charity is a great way to recycle and give to someone in need x
Nice! The trench coat is pretty different and I love how you paired it with the dress.
I love that black dress!
I love your outfit, it looks great.