I adore checks, tartans, and plaids. My brain loves visual order and symmetry, as well as things that match–basically most things that just make immediate visual sense. In that way, the fact that a checked print fabric can include multiple colours, whether cohesive or clashing, without threatening to register as ‘too busy’ makes it a soothing way to layer colour in the winter months especially, when it’s very easy to dip only into more muted tones now that one’s tropical prints and more exuberant summer pieces have been safely packed away for the year. A check print can still be bold when it pairs multiple bright tones together, or it can be understated and classic by threading together harmonious colours. No matter what, those criss-crossing lines will please the eye and give you plenty of room to create a great outfit. 

Dress: Anna Check Swing dress gifted by Hearts and Roses London
(Discount code AMY10)
Belt and gloves: Old Primark
Bag: Gemma bag by Banned Retro
Boots: Burgundy Tatiana boots by Lulu Hun
Half Hat: Daisy hat by Belbeina Lee

The Anna Check swing dress by Hearts and Roses comes in a great extended size range, up to a UK 26, and also comes in kids sizes, making it a lovely choice for folks who enjoy matching the Minis in their life. Made in a check comprised of black, white and blue, it’s a simple, modest piece with three quarter length sleeves and a full circle skirt. The boat neckline features a small keyhole detail, while the bodice is fitted throughout before the waistband gives way to that fully twirlable skirt. Which, by the way, has pockets in the side seams, a feature I will never allow to go unstated nor unpraised–pockets, pockets, huzzah! 

Since the colour scheme of this print is subdued, you can choose matching accessories to create an easy coordinated look, or you can choose accessories in colours that will really pop to add extra fun to your outfit, with red, green, purple or gold as options I think would work especially well with this dress. It’s the kind of dress that can also be dressed up or down for different situations, as it works great for daily wear but still has potential to be elevated for certain occasions when paired with the right accessories. I mean, what are vintage hats for if not to make things fabulous??

It’s made in a cotton blend that has a decent amount of stretch in the fabric, making it a super comfortable wear, and a more forgiving fit. I tend to find Hearts and Roses dresses have quite high waistbands for folks like me who have long torsos, but that makes them a perfect choice for any of you lovelies who have shorter torsos. 

I asked for this dress in the 20/3XL, and it’s accurate to the size chart with additional stretch. The bust lays flat at 42 inches and has stretch up to 48. The waist is 39 inches flat, with stretch to 41. The skirt is 27.5 inches long. The sleeves are 16 inches flat around the bicep, with stretch in the fabric to 18 inches in circumferences. This dress closes with a hidden back zip and is machine washable. 

The Anna Check Swing dress comes in adult UK sizes 8-26 and kids sizes 3-4yrs to 11-12yrs. Discount code AMY10 will get you 10% off anything on the Hearts and Roses London website. H&R London ship worldwide, and do have select in-store and online stockists around the world.

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Disclaimer: The dress featured in this review was gifted to me by Hearts and Roses London 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, practising strict social distancing measures in an effort to help reduce the spread of Covid-19.