Sometimes you see a dress and just immediately know it’s a ‘you’ piece. Back in February when I was flicking through Collectif’s previewed SS17 line the Nora Abstract swing dress jumped right out at me in just such a way.

Featuring a bold print made up of red, green and yellow framed on a white background, it’s the kind of colourful print I’m never afraid of and always delighted by. The colour combination makes me think of chilies and dell peppers, and I think that’s kind of brilliantly fun.

Dress: Nora Abstract swing dress C/O Collectif
Bag: Emmy Rattan Basket bag by Joanie Clothing
Cardigan: Kelly Green Tootsie Cropped Cardigan from Doll Me Up
Bangles: Thrifted
Shoes + Necklace: Old Primark

In addition to sporting a super fun print, I just love the cut of this dress. This kind of wide U shape neckline is flattering on every body type and the front patch pockets with large white turn over trim are as adorable as they are useful.The full gathered skirt will easily take a medium-full volume petticoat, or still looks great worn with a slim volume one as I have done above for a more casual, easy look. The dress comes with a matching fabric grommet belt and it closes with a hidden side zip.

I was sent this dress in my usual Collectif size 16/XL and it runs very true to size. The waist flat measures 34 inches with only half an inch of give, as it’s made from cotton and linen, as well as lined, with therefore no stretch. The bust flat measures 44 inches with an inch of give to 45 inches. The skirt measures 26.5 inches long.

Since the colours in this dress are so vibrant it’s easy to pair matching accessories to create a bold, bright look, but it’s just as easy to style this dress in a less overwhelming way if the colours concern you. Worn alone with a tan, white or red pair of shoes will let the print stand out without any warring accessories vying for attention, while pairing it with a white cardigan will help keep you warm on cooler summer nights without adding to the colour clash. In short; don’t be scared, little gumdrops. You don’t have to fight colour with colour if you don’t want to!

The Nora Abstract Swing Dress is available in UK sizes 6 to 22 for £64, available to be shipped internationally.