For some reason, it feels right to buy something new or choose something ‘festive’ to wear on Christmas Day. It’s on most people’s shopping list when we shop anytime from October through to Christmas Day.
That and the fact my sister in law from Brisbane visited over the weekend and eagerly showed me her new frock purchased with Christmas in mind, prompted me to write this post.
Here are my favourite dresses I’ve bought with clients this season being their personal stylist or personal shopper. I’ve also included my sister in law’s dress, the dress it inspired me to buy (because I decided I needed a new Xmas Day dress too!) and some of our team’s picks.
Country Road Tropical Knit Dress
I love the simplicity of the shape of this dress and the tropical print is very summer worthy. Made in a knit construction, this dress features a beautiful tropical design and flattering V-neck. The chic midi length gives it the versatility to dress up or down. On Christmas Day style it with a pair of strappy sandals or wedges. The stretch will allow you to eat that extra piece of Christmas pudding too!
Viktoria and Woods Knoxville Drawstring Dress
Cut from a linen blend, woven with navy & white stripes, the Knoxville dress features contrast herringbone tape neckline, drawstring casing with cotton herringbone tape draw cord, separate belt and in built pockets.
You can wear the dress numerous ways to suit your shape. The belt is optional but works well if you have a waist. If you don’t like too much fabric around the waist, you can wear your own belt. The draw string can be pulled to wear multiple lengths to suit your height
Another great dress to indulge in on Christmas Day (though you might want to make sure you don’t spill the Christmas punch!) Featuring an all over broderie design with frills at the sleeves, the criss cross back adds a sleek and sophisticated finishing touch.
Sportscraft Samara Print Dress
For those of you who like to make a statement and wear something bright and fun, this dress is a great option. Stunning florals decorate this poly woven, off-shoulder style with a playful shift shape, that works equally without the belt.
This is a great shape for women who feel quite ‘straight up and down’ or ‘thick around the middle’ as the fabric drapes beautifully. Its also a very flattering length for all shapes.
Marcs Maybe Maui Silk Dress
Well if this dress wasn’t made for Xmas Day I don’t know what is! Featuring a bold Hawaiian floral print, this classic shift style dress is cinched at the waist for a polished summer look. Again this style is super flattering (and comfy) for a big day of indulging and can be worn with anything from a sandal to a wedge or a sneaker.
OK, now to the dress that inspired me!
Scanlan Theodore Silk Batik Floral Tie Front Dress
Feminine and simple, this dress will provide great mileage in your wardrobe. The twist front is great for creating shape through the waist (if this doesn’t come naturally for you) and the bonus v-neck is great for bigger busts.
It’s not often you see this combination from the likes of Scanlan Theodore, so well spotted sis.
*Style Note: remember the midi length can be tricky for petites so you may want to shorten if you’re not planning to wear a heel (got that Rebecca?)
And to my purchase…
Scanlan Theodore Stripe Gathered Sleeve Dress
As soon as I spotted this dress (both in store and then on the gorgeous Emporium manager Emma) I knew this was THE ONE!
The fabric is divine and soft (85% cotton, 15% polyester) and the earthy colour (clay/terracotta) is not given justice in the pictures. Featuring a fine pinstripe, the deep v/off shoulder combo worked perfectly on my shoulders (and small bust!) You can play around with the sleeves to make them longer or shorter.
I also like that even though it’s nicely shaped at the waist, there’s some strategically placed excess fabric making room for my sisters delicious Christmas desserts 😉
I bought some cute tassel earring from Sussan (not available online) and I’ll probably wear my tan strappy Wittner sandals and Janessa Leone (available online) hat I bought from Viktoria and Woods (SOLD OUT)
Now lets hope it’s frock weather! Merry Christmas, Sally x
The SBS Team purchases:
Prue: ASOS Embellished Smock Top
How cute is this top! Prue plans to team it with a pair of black high waisted culottes and strappy heels for Xmas Day festivities. Wearing something high waisted (pants, skirt etc as per pic below) means you get to show off a little skin, but not too much 😉
And the spot between just under the bust and your waist is the most flattering!
Lore: Husk Aswan Dress
Lore loves a good summer dress, and with her gorgeous broad shoulders this tank dress works really well on her frame. Perfect for the casual beach Christmas Day lunch she has planned with family- she could even throw it over her togs and head to the beach afterwards!
A flowy printed stripe dress with grosgrain strap detail. Relaxed fit, flares from under the bust to midi length made of silk crepe de chine. Throw on a denim jacket and white sneakers and you have a great casual dress.
Category: Casual Dresses, Fashion Advice, Party Dressing, Shopping, Summer Fashion, Women's Fashion
