THE PERFECT SUMMER DRESS

I've been looking for that perfect summer dress, that you can wear without growing tired of, that will always be that 'staple item' in your wardrobe. I was just about to give up hope of finding one, until I spotted this beautiful powder-blue midi dress in Topshop a few weeks ago. It suits my style in every way - it's to my taste, it was an affordable price, and best of all, it made me feel comfortable. If you haven't read my previous - quite personal - post all about self reflection in 22 things I've learnt in 22 years (see here) I talk about struggles with my body weight and learning to accept myself. This dress honestly was a blessing, as it made me feel confident again...

It was only a few weekends ago that I ventured into Topshop on a whim, and stumbled across this striking pale blue dress hanging on the last chance to buy rail. I grabbed it and instantly fell in love with it, and hoped when I tried it on in the fitting room it would live up to my already mounting expectations. First of all? It had no under layering. This concerned me, as I'm a massive phobe for thin fabrics that show off your underwear. But, surprisingly, the fabric of this dress was thick enough (yet light-weight) to cover all of that.

Ok one thing to note - I actually wear this dress back to front. I know, I'm a crazy person! But I actually much prefer it this way, and if it was advertised in this way I would bet you it would be a sell-out. Although, you can wear this dress the other way around, but it just covers up more of your chest. I personally prefer the V neck structure, it just looks better and more wearable.

This wonderful dress also has a subtle slit up the side, with gathered cuffs on the sleeves - which I prefer to roll up for that more casual, relaxed look. It also has a silver D ring to help fasten the belt with, which would usually sit at the front - but in this case, it's at the back.

On the day we shot this dress it was around 25C and barely any breeze in Leeds. Yet, I was pleasantly cool and it never once rode up, frayed or caught on anything which usually tends to happen to me! I loved this number so much, that I'm even considering purchasing it in the Pink colour, which it also comes in. Perfect for those of you who aren't as much of a blue fan!

Bag - Mango (old season)

Guess Trainers - TKmaxx

Price wise? This cost my bank £42 - yes, maybe a little steep for one dress. But I'm a firm believer in when you find something you really really love and you know that you'll wear often, it's worth it to invest a little bit more. You can find more details on this beautiful blue dress here.