StYle Advice

Past Advice:

Dear Kate,

I am looking for a semi formal dress for a fancy business party I have to attend. Do you think with the right shoes and accessories that the Sierra Nevada dress would work? Thanks for your advice.

Lori

Hi Lori!

Thanks for your message and interest in the Sierra Nevada. This certainly has been a bestselling dress and it's a darling choice! The cotton poplin of the Sierra Nevada does make it a little bit more casual, especially for an evening event, but as you suggest, the right styling and accessories will boost the formality of your outfit. Stilettos spike the occasion-wear potential of any outift, and if you choose any of the following features in a shoe, you're going to take it up a few notches further: t-straps, patent leather, pointed toes, ankle straps, a platform beneath the sole, a metallic or bold punchy color. As far as added accessories to make the dress appropriate for your event, I'd recommend jewelry with some sparkle or shine. Choose big earrings with glassy stones or shiny bangles, but not both. I'd steer away from a necklace because the neckline of Sierra Nevada is higher and you don't want to detract from the pretty petal detailing. I hope these suggestions are helpful! Enjoy the party!

Kate 

Dear Kate,   

I just discovered your website and I'm in awe at all the modest clothing! It's not too often I find modest clothing that I don't have to make myself, but when I do I usually strike out anyway because I'm so tall or the price is too high for my new family's budget. I'm a 5'9" size 4 with large breasts and an hourglass shape. I know, I know: "You're so lucky" right? Wrong! One, after having 9+ pound babies, being hefty on top becomes every girl's nightmare! Two, I can never find clothes that fit me perfectly! And three, I have religious beliefs that keep my dress modest, up top and a certain length. Help?                        

Keriann   

Hi Keriann!                                                                                                                                      

Thank you for your message and kind words! We're so glad you have discovered Shabby Apple and are delighted to hear that you share our appreciation for modest and stylish clothing! First off, I'm pleased to let you know about two features on our website which would be helpful references to you!

- Our Fit Guide. (available at the top of our homepage) This guide will give you the exact measurement breakdown for our full range of sizes. When coupled with the detailed "Fit Notes on each dress's description, the fit guide will direct you to your ideal size! Note that most of our dresses conform to the "Fits Generously" Fit Guide.

-Our Length Guide (available at the top of each dress's description). Based on your height and length needs, it sounds like you'll want to have detailed length information and we're always happy to provide this! Note that the Length Guide varies slightly with each dress.

Based on your description and preferences, I'd be delighted to recommend a few dresses to you!

1. The Antiquated: This one is a little bit fancier but it's been one of our best-ever sellers for a reason. make that several reasons! The fit is quite generous through the chest to accommodate a bustier build; the eased flare of the skirt from a straight waist flatters your middle, and details such as the little collar, charmeuse sash and lace overlay combine for one fierce but tasteful black dress!

2. Bon Voyage/Ramble/Beauty Mark: These are all the same dress style, but in navy blue, red, and black, respectively. The shape is classic and feminine, and the kick pleat skirt and bowed belt are just so fun! This dress, too, provides great length coverage,and it is a bit roomier through the chest which makes it the perfect choice for a taller, bustier, hourglass figure.

3. The Ballerina/Espina Bonita/Caynne: These are also variants of the same style, in purple, black, and spicy red, respectively. The jersey knit is ultra comfortable and makes for a feel-good fit. The longer length and ultra-accommodating bodice make this stretchy dress a favorite of women who are tall and more buxom through the chest. Because of the ample stretch of the material, the bust is a bit slinky so some customers preferred to have a camisole of thin under layer for added coverage. 

Thank you again for your outreach to Shabby Apple, Keriann! Please don't hesitate to let me know if I can help you further!

Kate

Dear Kate,

I LOVE the idea of the Washington Square Park dress for my non-profit's next silent auction swanky dinner (and a night of pictures without serious cleavage leading the way). That said, I am not an easy dress person. I have a big bust, shoulders and arms, and a smaller lower half. Do you think this is a fancy enough dress to go toe-to-toe with the LBD? That's my usual MO for this occasion, but I'd like a little color.

Thanks,

Paige

Hi there Paige!

Thank you for your message! I'd love to advise you on your questions; the silent auction sounds like a fantastic event! The Washington Square Park is a customer favorite that wears beautifully year-round. The fabric is lightweight, the color is becoming, and the gentle A-line of the skirt certainly doesn't hurt the figure. That said, I'm disinclined to sign off on this dress for your special event because many are the dresses with more wow-factor for a fancy night. I'd love you to take a look at Shabby Apple's Up and Away collection as a whole. The dresses have a gently billowy and blousy feel, making for an eased and flattering fit that would not be uncomfortably tight. Our All that Jazz collection is a perfect stop to make while shopping our site for more formal dresses; this line features unique, feminine and elegant styles that you can rock on a fancy night and will keep wearing long after. The Ain't She Sweet, Ella, and Rhythm Dancer dresses are particular favorites of mine; their gorgeous colors, subtle sheen and lovely fits put them right up there with the fiercest LBD!

Happy Shopping!

Kate