It’s official, we’re entering my favourite time of year, that sweet spot between April and May when both the blossoms and the bluebells are out. I shared some bluebells loveliness with you all over the weekend, so today it’s time to give the blossoms a little more of their due as we look at a dress that is, actually, pretty much pure summer–I don’t have any tropical palms or banana leaves to hand though, so the blossoms will have to do while we all pretend I wasn’t cold shooting this dress at 8am in the April early morning wind. (Please, I do it for you.)

Dress: Solana Mid dress gifted by Hell Bunny
Bangles: Panther light cane bangle by Splendette
Bag: Old New Look
Shoes: Black Palmas wedges by Hotter
Hat: Old Ali Express

The Solana dress is a graphic glimpse of jungle, with a variety of green leaves scattered across a black and white striped background. As one of Hell Bunny’s mid styles it’s  more of an on-the-knee length piece than their 50s dresses, which hit below the knee. This makes it a great summer option for more petite pretties who find a longer length overwhelming. The cap sleeves are fully elasticated so they can be worn on or off the shoulders, while the black ring detail in the centre bust creates a subtle keyhole effect that’s just a little bit sexy. Fabric is gathered around that ring detail to give ample room in the bust for a flattering fit, the banded bodice below fitted close before flaring out into the gathered skirt. There are pockets in the skirt’s side seams, and there’s room for a medium-full petticoat–I opted for my slimmest volume petticoat for just a little extra poof here.

I especially love the fit of this dress through the bodice, it’s gorgeous and I think will flatter both smaller and fuller busts. As it’s one of HB’s shorter mid styles it’s a great casual piece for us slightly taller lovelies (I’m 5 ft 7) who are used to wearing our dresses below the knee. There’s some stretch in the fabric that makes it really comfy to wear, and I love that the sleeves can be worn on or off the shoulders. It’s just a fun, summery style that will serve you well through all sorts of sunshine-laden social occasions. 

I asked for this dress in my usual Hell Bunny size 2XL and it’s a perfect fit, as always. The bust flat measures 45.5 inches with stretch to almost 50 inches. The waist is 39 inches with stretch to almost 42 inches. The edge of the sleeves measures 15.5 inches unstretched with comfortable stretch to 26 inches, so there’s plenty of room for those of us with chubby upper arms who are used to being wary of inadequately stretchy sleeves. The skirt is 24 inches long and the dress closes with a hidden back zip. It’s machine washable. 

The Solana Mid dress comes in sizes XS-6XL. There’s also a Solana jumpsuit, gathered skirt, and buttoned shirt made in the same fabric. Hell Bunny ship worldwide and have in-store and online stockists around the globe.

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Disclaimer: The dress featured in this review was gifted to me by Hell Bunny in exchange for an honest 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, practising responsible social distancing to help limit the spread of Covid-19.