Today’s post features 3 pretty spring dresses that I found at target. The 3rd is actually not a dress, but I styled it to look like one. I think all 3 dresses have elements of of style from past decades that make for a beautiful modern day look. All 3 are versatile enough to dress up or down and you’ll find yourself wearing them ’til Fall.
Lilac Puff Sleeve
First up is this pretty lilac number. It’s cotton with a pattern detail. The square neckline, puff sleeves, and high waistline all remind of 1970s dresses. The 1960s was the decade of synthetic fabrics. Synthetics were new and all the rage, and designers rushed to use them in their designs. Styles were often “futuristic” and often constricting. The styles of the 70s were sort of like a backlash to the 60s. Natural fabrics (with the exception of polyester of course) were popular as well as dresses with looser silhouettes and more feminine or pastoral details.
Here are some great examples:
Floral Ruffle
Next up is a floral, ruffle dress that hits slightly above the natural waist. This one clearly fits into the 70s category of more feminine, flowy, and natural looking styles. I found this dress to be very flattering and I think it would cute with flats, wedges, or heels and a belt.
Green Gingham
My third dress isn’t actually a dress at all. It’s a top and skirt, however when styled with a belt it looks like a dress. The top has flowy bell sleeves and v- neckline. The skirt is pleated and mid length. Both pieces are of green gingham fabric. Gingham has been a popular fabric choice for Western women since at least the 17th century. It actually originates in the East, Indonesia to be exact; although its exact origination point is debated in South East Asia. For a history of gingham check out this article.
For modern women, we usually associate gingham with the 50s, 60s, and 70s and stars like Bridget Bardot. I think gingham is one of those prints that doesn’t ever really go out of style. Certain prints (like chevron for example) come into fashion and then out almost as fast; but not a print like gingham. I think it’s the simplicity of the design that gives it a timeless quality.
I hope that you like the picks and you find some inspiration for your Spring/Summer wardrobe. Which one is your favorite?
