HARRIET LADDER TRIM FLIPPY DRESS

$330 original but paid $150 in the store.

Purchased on August 2022; reviewed on February 2023.

TLDR: It was spring 2022. I had just spent the last few years in the startup world working from home, and then almost unexpectedly, I got a job offer to finally go back to corporate America in a “real office”. In a moment of panic, I realized that I had literally nothing in my closet other than athleisure. I was sufficiently stressed at my lack of attire that I went to a physical brick and mortar store, and one of the few brands I remembered from my fancy corporate days was REISS. I had a fabulous stylist who kept bringing me dresses including this one that was only available in a US size 8. As soon as I tried it on, I had to have it, even if the fit wasn’t perfect.

 

FIT: I probably could have gone a size or even two sizes down but alas there were no more sizes available other than a size 8. Now having said that, the tie waist still gives the dress shape. It doesn’t feel large to me other than the fabric in the upper arm area but I don’t think it’s that noticeable since it’s supposed to have a balloon-like style. I’ve gotten so many compliments on this dress and I would think it would be flattering on most body types. Even Syabira from the Great British Bakeoff wore it (Season 13, Episode 5)!

 

QUALITY: It’s not the best quality. Having said that, it comes with a slip dress and I don’t think it looks cheap. I’ve worn it in the office at least a couple of times a month and it’s holding up very well. The fabric isn’t the softest and it doesn’t feel particularly luxe but that wasn’t what I was looking for. With the right heels, it’s the perfect office look.

 

STYLE: This is probably the first item I’ve ever bought in this color! As an Asian woman, I didn’t think I could pull it off but I personally love it. It’s very different to my normal black or navy outfit. The silhouette is flattering and has a very forgiving style. Love it!