Shopping writer Lauren wore the discounted design to a fancy dinner and received lots of compliments
Fashion fans will likely already be familiar with Joanie, the vintage-inspired clothing brand that has carved out a loyal following for its retro silhouettes and playful prints. Think Twiggy-style minis, romantic puff sleeves and vibrant florals that look straight out of the ’60s.
The good news is the brand is currently running a huge sale, with up to 70% off a dreamy selection of dresses, skirts, blouses and more. Among the markdowns is one of my personal favourites: the Katy Blue Floral Ruffle Sleeve Mini Dress, £45, from £75.
I wore it to a fancy dinner back in June and received so many compliments throughout the night, including from a fellow fashion journalist who genuinely thought it was a Pucci dress. It looks like something a shopper would find after spending hours scouring vintage shops.
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The striking floral print is a real head-turner – colourful without being garish and vibrant enough to stand out in a crowd of neutrals. The frilly ruffle sleeves add an extra touch of fun, while the mini hemline feels playful yet still sophisticated. Plus, it has pockets, which, as any girl knows, is always a bonus.
Embracing Joanie’s signature 60s vibe, I teamed it with green velvet Mary Jane shoes and a slick of bright red lipstick – I used No7’s Pro Artist Matte Muse Lipstick in Red Carpet Ready, to be precise – for a Twiggy-esque look. However, it can be easily toned down with nude sandals and a clutch for a more casual outing.
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£75
£45
Joanie
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This dress has a bold floral print, fitted bodice with a concealed centre-back zip and a keyhole back neck fastening.
For those that love the Joanie aesthetic, there are similar retro-forward labels, such as Sister Jane, which leans into whimsical ruffles, puff sleeves, and statement collars. The brand even has a preloved section on its website.
Otherwise, Rixo is known for its beautiful hand-printed prints and vintage-inspired cuts. The brand offers a mix of stylish everyday wear, beautiful dresses, and wedding-ready bridal options.
There are plenty of other standout pieces in the Joanie sale. I also like the look of the Daisy Flared Sleeve Ruffle Neck Wrap Blouse, now down to £47.40 from £74. It features a lovely daisy print and a side bow to accentuate the waist.
The Bellatrix Short Sleeve Velvet Jumpsuit is also an excellent choice for Christmas parties and is now reduced to £35.60 from £89. However, despite mostly positive reviews, one person warned: “It’s not for tall people. I’m 5’6″ with a long body and short legs. The trousers are just about OK for me if I wear flats.”
Still, this sale is a treasure spot with a soft spot for the past. The sale is available to shop via Joanie here.