I think if I had to choose a favourite gingham colour I would have to–after much lip chewing and frowning–choose yellow. A yellow gingham just feels so undeniably happy to me, all sunshine and bright smiles in a way that immediately summons good vibes and great memories. And would you look at that, today we’re going full on yellow gingham.
We’ve had another heatwave here in the U.K. and while I enjoy the brighter days, the heat and humidity definitely kick my butt. Nothing I can wear practically for work comes close to keeping me cool and comfortable, so it’s a relief when I can get home, take a chilly shower and change into one of my summer dresses. Anything made of a light cotton instantly eases my discomfort, so this check halter number is a true relief.
When it comes to summer frocks, is there anything more superlative than red gingham? I suspect not. Add pockets and a full skirt and I am one happy pinup!
The Annie dress is one of Dolly & Dotty’s staple dress cuts, released each season in a variety of new prints and patterns. Whether you love florals, embroidered designs, quirky patterns, winter checks, or even lace, there’s an Annie (or several!) for you. I own a handful already, and they’re always easy to throw on to quickly create a great outfit around. My newest Annie is this little gingham number, so you know I’m in my very best summertime picnic feels! Let’s go walk barefoot through the meadow together, shall we?
Polka dots is one of the patterns that’s prevalent in the vintage inspired clothing realm. It wasn’t something I ever thought much about until I saw someone comment somewhere on social media that they hated polka dots and how common they were in repro clothing. Personally I quite like a small or medium sized dot, especially when done in black and white, but I share an aversion to very large polka dots which feel more costumey to me, so I can understand their complaint. There are plenty of ways to wear spots without looking too twee nor too rote, though, and today I want to focus on one of my favourite ways–playing with texture and layers.
While I have become quite a leopard print devotee over the past few years, I can still understand how the print might not be the top choice for many folks. Wearing it requires confidence–and a healthy scoop of sass in some instances–but there’s plenty of ways to utilize the print for those who don’t feel totally at home rocking a full leopard print item of clothing. Instead, one could opt for a leopard print statement accessory in a headscarf, handbag. or pair of shoes. Or, simpler still, one could grab this leopard trimmed Cindy dress by Dolly & Dotty, which has the perfect splash of leopard designed for you.
One of my favourite things about moving into the colder half of the year is wearing tartan, plaids and checks. When it’s chilly or dreary outside–or both–there’s something about putting on a check that just feels right. And a green and navy base tartan? Oh that is my favourite.
There’s always something special about a little black dress, but I think this time of year especially they come into their own. The fact that a LBD can be elevated with the fun of using different fabrics and textures makes them even more wonderful, so I’m a big fan of a black dress that utilizes lace, velvet, even sheer elements. This Elizabeth dress by Dolly & Dotty, therefore, is just what I’m looking for to feel glamorous and moody as the evenings darken and the temperature cools.
I love a vintage style dress that has something a little bit different about it, and the glorious double semi-circle of semi-circle cutouts on this Dolly & Dotty number absolutely qualifies. Cutouts generally get a bad rap, with people immediately assuming they display too much flesh, but these cutouts elevate this Elaine dress with style and elegance. Plus, it comes in 4 colours, so what’s not to love?
If there’s one thing the weather lately has been calling for, it’s a maxi dress. I only own a handful because I’m really specific about what cuts I like, but this floral number from Dolly & Dotty? It easily checks off the boxes on my list.
Miss Amy May 