Border prints are one of my favourite parts of vintage design because they just aren’t commonly utilized in modern fashion. I used to be quite happy to wear quite novelty border prints, but novelty tempts me less so these days. A simple graphic print, though, I still find lovely, and this Danube print by Collectif is certainly lovely.

Dress: Candice Danube dress gifted by Collectif
Cardigan: Oatmeal Cropped cardigan by MAK Sweater (Affiliate code Yemak-amymay for 40% off)
Shoes: Tan Martinique Wedges previously gifted by Hotter Shoes (A/L)
Bangles: Dragonfly bangles by Splendette
Bag: Half Moon Basket Bag by Ellen & James

This print features two-toned blue climbing vines creeping up the skirt as their red flowers blossom, a colour scheme that sits beautifully on the pale cream cotton sateen of the dress’s background. The Candice dress is a staple cut, a sleeveless piece with a rounded high neckline and a full gathered skirt. Its simplicity and modesty mean it’s appropriate wear for most circumstances, including for those who get to wear pretty dresses to work, but to me it mostly just hums a song of breezy spring days and warm summer ones. It’s ready for beach walks and picnics, errands run in sunglasses with an iced coffee in hand, time spent eating and laughing and relaxing with loved ones. It’s an all purpose slice of loveliness and that’s something I appreciate even more these days, especially when it comes with pockets!

The gathered skirt has ample room for a medium-full petticoat, as the gathering is very similar to Collectif’s Jasmine skirt. Speaking of–if you like this print but aren’t sold on the dress cut, this Danube print is also available as a Jasmine skirt and the Kiana pencil dress, which additionally boasts stunning navy contrast trim detailing on the bust.

I asked for this dress in a 20 and it fits true to Collectif’s size 20. An 18 would fit me for that snug pinup look, but I prefer the extra shoulder and bust room in the 20. The bust flat measures 45 inches with stretch to 48, while the waist flat measures 38 inches with stretch to 40. The skirt is 25.5 inches long. This dress closes with a hidden back zip and it’s machine washable.

The Candice Danube dress is available in UK sizes 8-22. Collectif ship worldwide and also have 3 UK stores. They have stockists all over the world, both in-store and online.

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Disclaimer: The dress featured in this review was gifted to me by Collectif in exchange for an honest review. The shoes were previously gifted to me by Hotter in exchange for a past review. All opinions expressed are truthful and my own, with no input from any of the companies listed or any other individuals. The use of my MAK affiliate code will generate me a small commission from your order. Items marked with (A/L) are Affiliate Links.

COVID-19 NOTE: These pictures were taken alone and safely in a secluded outdoors area with no other individuals present or passing, thus abiding by the strict social distancing rules currently in place to help reduce the spread of Covid-19.