Your clothes don't have to be flattering...

Initially I wasn't going to blog about this outfit, it wasn't worn for anything special, I haven't done anything new with my hair or make-up here and realistically, it's not really all that flattering. I think many people fall into the trap of always trying to 'dress your body shape' and whilst I love a fitted waist and full skirt as much as the next gal, sometimes I just want to wear a particular combination that isn't 'flattering'. Of course, what is flattering depends on your point of view, but for me, being happy in both my skin and clothes is way more important than whether I am 'showing off my best bits'. Even if you have a very clearly defined style, there's always going to be times when you try something new and this outfit is certainly doing that for me. I have been on the hunt for an Autumnal maxi for a while now but nothing has been quite right so far. Rather than just sulk, I thought I would try adding a cropped jumper to make this (very summery) maxi dress more weather appropriate. I have only just realised that both my jumper and dress are both from Mango, what can I say, they were clearly onto a good thing! ;)

Dress: Mango, jumper: Mango, shoes: c/o George at ASDA
 In some lights this jumper looks like white and black but it is actually cream and navy which feels very nautical. This make-up (or lack thereof) is also a bit of a departure for me, especially as I am wearing stripes. I am more likely to be found in bright lipstick than muted shades but really, who can be bothered at the weekend?! Burt's Bees Lip Shimmers are perfect for when you want to add a bit of colour without any effort and I always have at least one in my handbag! 


I was worried that I would be a bit chilly in this as it is made of quite a thin jersey material but I needn't have worried as I was just right thanks to the jumper. Despite being 5' 5", when I bought this dress, there was over a foot of unnecessary material at the bottom of the skirt. Luckily Mark's mum is an adept seamstress and she adjusted it so the length sits right on me. I now I am very lucky to have someone who can do this for me but it is amazing how much difference one simple (ish) adjustment can make!



Any tips on where to get a wintry maxi dress? Do you dress to flatter your body shape?

7 comments

laura said...

ASOS have some lovely long sleeved maxi dresses at the moment! xx

Unknown said...

Such a great casual outfit, it looks really comfy and you can't go wrong with stripes!

Becky :: ACCOOOHTREMENTS LIFE + STYLE BLOG

p.s. I love Burt's Bees :)

LillianZahra said...

I love this outfit- I'm definitely going to try to keep wearing my more summery dresses but with jumpers as can't bear to put them away just yet! x
LilyLipstick

The Style Rawr said...

I love wearing maxis in Winter!! Such a genius idea. ♥

Tara xxx

at my dressingtable said...

Maria this is a lovely outfit ! and your blog post was very interesting read , you are so right it is nice just to wear an outfit with out worrying if it suits your body shape etc, etc. Best wishes to you.

Unknown said...

Confidence is always the most flattering style :) You look great!

aki! said...

I didn't realize you could wear maxis in the winter, but I love how this looks on you! If I see any maxi dresses I like, I'll have to give this a try.

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