If you’re struggling to find dresses to wear to work in the muggy temperatures, our head of shopping Zoe has the perfect suggestion from Roman
There’s something about the first proper heatwave of the year that sends me into a mild wardrobe panic. I love the sunshine, but dressing for it, especially when you’re still trying to look vaguely professional, is a whole different story. Every year, without fail, I realise I’ve got a drawer full of floaty dresses that are either too short, too see-through, or just not quite right for the office. And don’t even get me started on trying to find something that feels cool enough for the overcrowded central line but still smart enough for a meeting.
That’s why I’m always on the lookout for those rare pieces that fall between comfy and polished, and this year, I think I’ve found a winner. Roman’s Textured Stripe Belted Shirt Dress, which is currently on sale for just £32 down from £45, has quickly become my heatwave hero. I’d love to say it’s my styling skills that make it special, but really, it does the work for itself.
The fabric is 100% cotton, which makes such a difference as the temperature creeps up. I’ve worn it on a couple of those warm, sticky days already, and it’s breathable without being flimsy. The fabric of this midi has these subtle textured stripes running through it, which give it a bit more interest than a plain block colour, and its midi length hits me around mid-calf (I’m 5’7 for reference), which is ideal for officewear. The matching fabric belt also makes the piece– you can tie it as tight or as loose as you like, which means you can cinch in your waist without feeling restricted. It’s honestly such a flattering fit.
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There’s a timelessness to a shirt dress that I always come back to, and I’m yet to find anyone who doesn’t look put together in one. The belted dress comes in a blue or a green, and I love both, but the one I’m wearing in the picture is the khaki green. I’ve already paired mine with a light denim jacket and sandals, and it’s quickly become an outfit I reach for without even thinking.
Away from Roman, I have another piece I’ve been reaching for since it arrived at my front door last month. The Black One Shoulder Crochet Trim Sabrina Midi Dress from Nobody’s Child is a midi I find myself reaching for again and again, no matter the occasion.
When I first tried it on, I didn’t expect it to be anything out of the ordinary, but I was pleasantly surprised by how well it fit and how slim it made me feel. The one-shoulder style is flattering without being overly dramatic, and the midi length is a perfect balance between casual and dressy. I didn’t have to think too much about accessorising, either– this dress can hold its own. It’s easy, comfortable and feels right for a whole host of events.