The idea of the Little Black Dress is, I feel, often imaged in the shape of something slinky, well-fitted, possibly even involving glitter. For me, a LBD that will be reached for time and again is definitely a swing dress, something classic and timeless, even somewhat subdued by some people’s standards but easy to style into a knockout look for times I want to shine. The Lacey dress by Collectif more than fits the bill.

Dress: Lacey dress gifted by Collectif
Bag: All Around Cool bag by JustFab (Referral link for money off)
Brooch: Split Starburst brooch from eBay (A/L)

This dress is one of those styles that seems simple at first glance but has perfectly designed features that combine to create a graceful piece that will never look out of place nor go out of style. The knee-length swing skirt and full length sleeves make it not only a modest appropriate-pretty-much-anywhere-for-anything dress but also winter ready. The pockets are, of course, achingly useful and instantly make me happy. The matching belt cinches the waist, ready to flatter all body shapes, especially when volume is added in the skirt by wearing even a medium fullness petticoat beneath. But it’s the fabrics chosen for this piece that make it feel really special.

The cotton sateen material is not just plain black but is in fact textured, in an almost cross-hatch pattern, giving the slightest reminiscence of tweed. Contrasted against the plush, luxe finish given to the collar, sleeve cuffs and domed buttons by the use of velvet, what may seem to some to be just another black dress is transformed into a piece that speaks to both everyday wear and luxury, practicality and elegance. It will look good on any person it fits, ready to serve for every formal commitment or social function that may come your way. I love that it can be styled up to full glam with delicate, vintage-inspired accessories but can still be worn for more sensible, daily winter glamour with tights, faux-fur warming accessories, and boots, either ankle or knee length! It is a versatile dress indeed.

I usually wear an 18/2XL in Collectif but if the fabric is minimal- or zero-stretch and there’s functioning buttons and/or sleeves, I prefer to size up for a more comfortable fit that doesn’t pinch my upper arms or produce gaping between buttons at the bust. That’s what I did with this dress, asking for it in a size 20. That does mean it’s a little roomy on me overall, but that’s exactly what I wanted rather than a skin-tight fit that would strain at the bust and armpits. The waist flat measures 39 inches with stretch to 41, while the bust lays flat at 45 inches with stretch to 48 inches. The armholes are 21 inches in circumference, while the upper arms are 16 inches in circumference with a little give, so I found them perfectly comfortable to wear, even through movement. The skirt is 27 inches long and can fit a medium-full petticoat with ease. This dress is machine washable and comes with a matching velvet belt.

The Lacey dress is available in UK sizes 6-22 both online and in Collectif’s London and Brighton stores. Collectif also have stockists all over the world.

____________________________________________________

[Disclaimer: The dress featured in this review was gifted to me by Collectif Clothing in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed by me in all my reviews are my own and wholly truthful, with no input from any companies or any other individuals. Items marked with (A/L) are Affiliate Links.]