Spring is officially upon us, and what better way to mark the start of the warmer season than by updating your current dress collection?
The woman&home fashion team recently headed to Marylebone High Street in London with Presenter and fashion influencer Jo Good, who picked out a sumptuous coral dress from one of our favourite British clothing brands, Brora.
Jo was instantly taken with the silk botanical print dress and claimed it as “One of the most beautiful summer dresses I have seen today, it's like a 30’s tea dress!” And this beautiful design is straight on to our warm-weather wishlist.
From working as the best wedding guest dress this spring to being a luxurious choice for all of your summer holiday plans, this silk dress is an investment piece worth shopping. It features a vibrant, warm coral colour and a small floral print for added charm. The shirred waist adds to its flattering silhouette, and the elbow-length sleeves are brilliant for those who prefer more coverage.
Jo Good comments on its flattering silhouette and its beautiful design, "If you are a woman of a certain age and are worried about your arms, the elbow-length sleeves are so flattering. It has a honeycomb gathering at the back and front, so it comes in and gives you a waist."
What stands out about this dress is its feminine design features, its shirred waist and floaty gathered hem, which creates a fluid drape that will skim the body without clinging. Combined with the warm coral colour and floral print, it nods to the vintage tea dresses from the 1930s, which is what makes it so appealing.
Jo praises its flattering design, saying, "Lined, silk means you don’t have to worry about your legs showing through and the pleated, gathered skirt flows as you move, it's my Brora pick of the summer."
Shop more tea dresses
This floral style from French Connection is another tea dress that is worth adding to your wishlist. The flattering empire waist and sweet flutter sleeves make it suitable for a range of occasions, from warm-weather nuptials to evenings out. Try styling with leather sandals and a white linen blazer for a daytime outing.
If you're in the process of shopping for warm-weather dresses, this lightweight linen design is worth considering. Its bright pink shade is perfect for spring and summer, with subtle gathering at the sleeves, and a gathered waist, adding to its flattering appeal.
Featuring ditsy florals, this pink midi dress is the kind of staple that you'll get plenty of wear out of. It features a V-neckline and short flutter sleeves. The underbust seams and tie-back waist add shape to your waist, making it one of the best dresses to hide a tummy, and the skirt drapes softly across your waist and hips.
Rixo is another brand to keep in mind if you're on the hunt for occasionwear dresses. Its designs are coveted for their vintage-inspired features, and this silk gown has a beautiful butterfly print and a magenta background.
If you're heading to an evening event, this jacquard dress will certainly turn heads. It features a waist-defining panel, an effortless skirt and a gathered floaty hem. The gold embroidered detailing will make this piece shine.
Made from a breathable linen cotton blend, this paisley printed dress is a breathable choice that will see you through the warmer season in style. It has a flattering empire waist, puff sleeves and lace detailing, which add to its feminine appeal.
Although most of us know Brora for its cashmere and wool knitwear (frequently spotted on Claudia Winkleman whilst on The Traitors), the brand delivers much more. Jo informs us, "They have British Heritage beautiful designs, but did you know, they also design dresses, skirts, tops and cardigans?" So it's certainly worth browsing their collections if you're currently curating your spring capsule wardrobe.
What's so appealing about tea dresses is that they are a flattering choice due to their figure-skimming designs. If you're looking to invest in a piece that will work for the months ahead, this is exactly the kind of dress worth considering.
You can style this piece simply with leather sandals and a woven bag for a daytime occasion, or dress up with heeled wedges and a small shoulder bag for weddings, garden parties or evenings out.
