Aaaah the slip dress, that underrated and oft’ forgotten slither of fabric that probably hangs limply in your wardrobe, has made a comeback. As the International collections got underway back in September I watched with increasing excitement as shimmying down catwalks came the slip dress with a new found confidence and unapologetic sensuality. Masquerading sometimes as boudoir chemise, others as a satiny, lace trimmed column, it appeared in every shade of peach, blush, snow white and of course black with creamy contrast lace. It was vision of ethereal loveliness, and for one who spent her youth buying armfuls of vintage slips and dyeing them into just the right shades of blush and black, this was wonderful news. In fact, I’ve been shopping the trend already, I mean why waste time?
For inspiration look to Burberry, Alexander Wang, Celine and Givenchy for ways to wear. Oh and if you want to really nail the look, floor sweeping duster coats, parkas, chunky mannish shoes, shoulder-skimming earrings and backpacks should be on your list too. I predict this will be a festival favourite, but meanwhile, I’ll be outing the look for Christmas parties.
Images from Vogue.com
First stop shop for the iconic slip dress is Ghost. It’s cut on the bias so falls beautifully over your hips, all the way to the floor. You’ll turn heads.
http://www.ghost.co.uk/sofia_dress_dusty_green_dto-dz70ca-j29?gclid=CJ6Au8mGlckCFQsHwwodUGQP4Q
Possibly the best place to buy into the trend affordably but notwithstanding luxury is by checking out the Rosie for Autograph at M&S collection. I have several of her pieces already, pure silk, well cut and yes, you can get away with wearing them as dresses. A pair of Wolford velvet opaques and a mannish men’s blazer and the little chemise on the left is date worthy. Honest.
http://www.marksandspencer.com/pure-silk-lace-long-nightdress/p/p22391040
http://www.marksandspencer.com/pure-silk-french-designed-lace-trim-chemise/p/p22422020
For something a little more special, look for lace inserts and scalloped edges. This Alice and Olivia dress looks as gorgeous dressed down with festival boots and khaki as it does with sandals on a beach.
It’s an LBD, but not as you know it. This steal of a dress (£45!) has the prettiest back detail that begs a messy updo to show it off.
http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/uk/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=5139443330535&category=SEARCH+RESULTS
Yes it’s a one off vintage number and also in the USofA but it’s special, so if you fancy it, click like the wind….
https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/253048272/1940s-deadstock-rayon-nightgownslip-with?ref=market
The way to wear next Spring. Festival or NO festival.
Coming soon, but not quite ready to shop are these two beauties from M&S – a slither of silver satin over a tee shirt is a win win option, the little lace lingerie slip, may look, well too lingerie for outerwear, but, I’ve seen a lot less worn in clubs and this is GORGEOUS. Put a reminder on your phone to shop in the Spring.
Fashion & Style Director Shelly Vella