There’s something about red dresses that feels so vintage yet unmistakably modern. Maybe it’s the confidence they exude, the power. Either way, red dresses offer something special, and this Mona-Rose from Miss Candyfloss is even more exceptional than most.

Dress: Mona-Rose dress gifted by Miss Candyfloss
Shoes: White Palmas wedges by Hotter*
Bag: White Honey Ryder bag by Hell Bunny*
Bangles: Coconut and Cloud bangles by Splendette
Hat: Rachel hat by Belbeina Lee

This is my first Miss Candyfloss piece from their SS21 Dream Away Holiday line, inspired by the summer and resort wear showcased in third season of The Marvelous Mrs Maisel (swoon!) The line is bursting with colour, matching capsule pieces, and, of course, vintage glamour. This Mona-Rose dress is a perfect example of that, a feminine and flattering design that mixes look-at-me power red with the sweet unmistakably vintage feel of the white striped skirt. To call it striped, admittedly, is a simplification, as the stripes themselves showcase an array of undulating red ovals streaked up and down the full volume skirt. Said box-pleated skirt takes a medium-full petticoat with ease, for that true 1950s silhouette, though I’ve worn it here alone. Our modern hearts can rejoice over the pockets hidden in the side seams.

The bodice is solid red, with delicious pleating on the underside of the bust that compliments and defines, while the matching fabric belt cinches the waist. The sweetheart neckline lilts up into short sleeves, entirely summer appropriate, of course, while the back zips to a shallow V, offering an innocent yet sultry glimpse of skin. The fabric of the bodice is an incredibly light quality crepe fabric, so it will serve well on hot days.

I always wear 2XL in Miss Candyfloss but the team kindly alerted me to the fact that this style runs small without much stretch, so I checked the size chart and decided to opt for the 3XL. The 3XL in this piece sizes more like a typical Miss C 2XL with a some extra generosity. The waist flat measures 38.5 inches, with no give thanks to the non-stretch material of the skirt. The bust flat 46 inches with room to 48 inches. The arms are, as always with Miss Candyfloss, appropriately graded up through the plus sizes, so they’re entirely comfortable with zero pinching or tightness at the cuffs of the short sleeves. The skirt is lined and is 28 inches long. This dress is made in Europe, as are all Miss Candyfloss’s pieces.

The Mona-Rose is available in sizes XS-4XL. Miss Candyfloss ship worldwide, and have select stockists around the globe. They are always happy to assist with any queries or sizing questions, and are able to help you find the right stockist if you’re in need of a domestic delivery or are in search of a much-loved design that has quickly sold out in most places.

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Disclaimer: The dress featured in this review was gifted to me by Miss Candyfloss in exchange for an honest review. Items marked with an asterix* are items I bought myself from companies that have previously gifted me other items for review. All opinions expressed are truthful and my own, with no input from any of the companies listed or any other individuals. 

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.