Fashion fans, if you’re looking for a dress you can wear year-round for almost any occasion, this is it
I must confess, I’ve been guilty of underestimating high street retailer Next for far too long. This season, their new arrivals are brimming with items that I can’t resist adding to my shopping basket, including a gorgeous dress you can wear from spring, all the way through to autumn.
My usual spring style haunts have typically been M&S, River Island and ASOS, and I regret overlooking Next in the past. However, they’ve now firmly established themselves as a top contender for a wardrobe overhaul, offering a range of stylish, on-trend pieces that promise to be wardrobe workhorses.
During a recent try-on session, I was instantly smitten with the Khaki Green Woven Jersey Mix Sleeveless Racer Ribbed Midi Dress. Priced at £32, this racer-style midi dress is an excellent transitional piece, striking the perfect balance between affordability, quality, and versatility.
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I predict that within a few weeks, the cost-per-wear will be mere pennies. This dress, both chic and practical, is suitable for casual and more formal occasions alike. Its ribbed bodice flatters the figure, while the airy cotton skirt ensures comfort and breathability.
Personally, I always try to choose cotton when possible, as it tends to wash well and last longer. Cotton is an ideal fabric for warmer weather and is generally considered superior to some synthetic alternatives, reports the Liverpool Echo.
The khaki hue is incredibly flattering, suiting a wide range of individuals, especially those with warmer skin tones. If khaki isn’t your cup of tea, the dress also comes in timeless black and a lively red variant.
Available in sizes 6-26 in regular fit, it’s also tailored for petite and tall shoppers, offering sizes 4-20 in petite and sizes 10-20 in tall. I chose the regular length, but found the sizing to be slightly generous, so I opted for size 8 – one size smaller than my usual – for a better fit around the bust area.
My favourite feature, aside from the stretchy bodice, has to be the two side pockets. They’re always a welcome addition in women’s fashion, discreet enough not to create bulges around the hips, yet spacious enough to slip your phone or bank card into.
One of the best things about the dress is how it can be styled in so many ways. Pair it with chunky trainers for a casual day look, or add heeled mules and gold accessories for a dressier vibe. I also like that you could layer over a jumper or a cardigan to give a top and skirt illusion without it being too bulky, which is something I’ll definitely be doing while it’s still a bit chilly. And in autumn, it can be toughened up with biker boots and a leather jacket.
Elsewhere, this Green Colorado Skater Midi Dress at Nobody’s Child offers a similar vibe, but it’s more expensive at £45, down from £65. With its square neckline complemented by thick bra-friendly straps, it’s so easy to wear, and like the Next dress, also has pockets. Or there’s this A-line dress from Mango, coming in at £29.99. Made from 100% cotton, it boasts a round neck and short sleeves, but only comes in sizes 6-14.
But if it’s my new go-to Next Khaki Green Woven Jersey Mix Sleeveless Racer Ribbed Midi Dress that takes your fancy, you can buy it here for £32.
