I like plaid. Big plaids, small plaids. Green, blue, grey, brown, red plaids. Subtle plaids, obnoxious plaids. I don’t think I’ve ever met a plaid I didn’t like, but admittedly the plaids that populate my wardrobe all tend to be rich or bright in colour, proud to be plaid and loud. I don’t yet have the kind of plaid that flies under the radar, that can host a dinner party without looking very seasonally eager. Well, I didn’t have that kind of plaid. Now, thanks to Sally, I’m Dinner Party Plaid ready.

Dress:  Plaid Sally Swing Dress C/O Unique Vintage
Shoes: Primark
Petticoat: Doris Designs
Bag: Lola Von Rose
Gloves: Old Primark
Brooch: Old Ali Express

This dress is such a delight. While it sports a grey and white plaid print, the material itself is lightweight, so you won’t find yourself overheating while you rush about in the kitchen at that dinner party this dress so clearly demands you host. Pinups from hotter climates who experience warm winters will also be able to rock this frock to feel seasonally festive without sweltering as a result.

It features half sleeves, a length that flatters every body type, and an elegant high neckline. The skirt is positively abundant, boasting plentiful gathers that allow you to add a full volume petticoat if desired for maximum puff and swish, and laying with a more demure but lovely volume when worn with even a medium volume petticoat, as I have done above. The waist is cinched by a matching PU-backed notched belt to give you a stunning 1950s silhouette, while the side pockets allow you modern convenience. The dress closes with a back zipper.

I asked for my usual Unique Vintage size 2XL and despite being a non-stretch fabric, the sizing is a touch generous in this dress.The waist flat measures 39 inches with give to 40, while the bust flat measures 44 inches with room up to 46 inches. The bust was a comfortable fit for me and the matching belt made it easy to tighten the waist for a better fit, but you might have to consult the size chart and debate sizing down.

The Sally Swing Dress is available in this lovely grey and white plaid, a black and white lace print, or a rich green and black diamond print, all in sizes XS-4XL. Unique Vintage ship all over the world and have recently updated their international shipping options to include many more very affordable rates, so it’s worth checking in on your ‘I wish’ loaded up basket if you’re an international shopper who’s been delaying on your order.