Do you have a brunch date, a garden party, or a tropical vacation coming up? Then, I may just have the dress for you! I just bought Anthropologie’s Somerset Maxi Dress for a special brunch, and I think it’s such a flattering style for many different body types.
I’m wearing a Somerset Maxi Dress in Petite S, and am just under 5’4″, and around 130lbs. The Standard (regular) size is about 4″ longer. This print is no longer available but Anthropologie has been offering new prints in this style for. a few years now.
The Details On The Somerset Maxi Dress
Some of the dress styles that are on-trend right now aren’t flattering to many body types. Cut-outs, backless styles, smocked bodices, and mini-lengths can be a little tricky for those of us who are older, curvy, or modest. Here’s why the Somerset Maxi Dress works for so many of us:
The Sleeves
The Somerset Maxi Dress has slightly puffed sleeves which adds a little bit of style without being too dramatic. Unlike cap sleeves, which hug and emphasize the widest part of your arm, this dress has loose sleeves which make your arms look slimmer.
The Smocked Waist
Smocking is a huge trend right now, but smocked fabric is also body-hugging. What I love about the smocking on the Somerset maxi Dress is that it sits just above my waist (the area that is not so squishy) and it nips it in without being clingy.
The Skirt
The skirt flares out into an a-line shape which is very flattering if you have wider hips or a belly. On the other hand, dresses that have a straighter shape or a mermaid shape (generous at the hips and slightly tapered at the hem) will emphasize your bottom half.
The Split Neckline
Anthropologie describes the Somerset Dress as a v-neck, but it actually has a crew neckline with a split so that you can wear it slightly open. If you’re petite like me and struggle with v-necks being too low, you’ll appreciate this neckline.
Pullover Style
I was a little upset to find, the other day, that my arms are not as flexible as they used to be (thanks, stress, for the shoulder tightness!) I was trying to zip up a dress and realized that I couldn’t quite get the zipper to the top. So I appreciate this pullover style more than I care to admit. If you get dressed in a hurry or haven’t been practicing your Cow Face Pose, you will too!
The Somerset Dress: Print, Size, And Fabric Options
The Somerset Maxi Dress comes in Standard (regular), Petite, and Plus sizes so there are quite a few sizing options.
The blue and white cotton print that I am wearing isn’t currently available, but there are 10 other print options to choose from.
If you prefer embroidery, take a look at the Somerset Dress Embroidery Edition.
The Somerset Maxi Dress Cutwork Edition has the most beautiful cutwork details.
Prefer linen? There’s a Somerset Maxi Dress: Linen Edition with 7 color options.
Want to show off your gorgeous legs? Try the Somerset Mini Dress which comes in several prints. You’ll also find the mini dress in eyelet.
What To Wear With The Somerset Dress
Sandals
If you only consider one sandal trend this season, it should probably be the braided leather sandal like the Paily Slide Sandal from Dolce Vita. It comes in 14 different colors and has a 3.25″ block heel.
Prefer flats? Tory Burch’s Miller Sandals sandals are an investment but they are a classic, high-quality pair of shoes.
Statement Earrings, Rings, And Bracelets
Since the neckline is already interesting, I wear a simple pendant with my Somerset dress. If you want to add some extra sparkle, wear statement earrings, rings, or bracelets. Some of my favorite jewelry brands include:
Monica Vinader
Use my Insider Code US20RAFINSIDER-99D9 for 20% off full-priced items at Monica Vinader.
Take a look at the Juno Disc Earrings and the Siren Muse Large Hoop Earrings which come in gold, silver, and rose gold. For a pretty cocktail ring, take a look at the Rio Gemstone Ring.
Victoria Emerson
I love the ease of Victoria Emerson’s cuffs which give you a stacked look without any effort. Take a look at this gorgeous Beale Street cuff.
Handbag
For my casual brunch, I’ll be taking my Poolside Le Croissant wicker bag. If you need something more dressy, this Loeffler Randall Marybeth Mini Woven Crossbody has that same woven texture but comes in leather.
Would this Somerset Maxi Dress work for you?