TBMD

I'm showing my age again as I find myself gravitating towards another "long" dress (especially compared to my last t-shirt dress which was well-above the knee). I previously gushed over the weighted and drapey material and am so happy to find an equivalent fabric in this midi version! I feel like the longer length shows off the fluidity of the fabric even more without hindering movement. This dress is definitely an easy one to toss on and be instant chic. In fact, I feel like I'm not doing the dress justice in these photos -- way over-accessorized!

I felt like a walking advertisement for Where's Waldo?, though of the female, colorful, and preppy variety. I've tried (and owned) a few shirtdresses over the years. My biggest problem with most is how they ride up when I raise my arms. To a lesser extent, they tend to somehow emphasize problem areas (too tight) or need belting (too loose). But this Waldo shirtdress is love at first sight! The fabric is thick and heavy enough that the hem doesn't ride up easily. I didn't feel fat nor felt like I'm wearing a sack. This dress is a throwback of J.Crew's from 1984 that they brought back. Unfortunately, I picked up the dress in the dead of winter, so very limited sizes are avail now. However, the shirt version is still available in many sizes in navy ivory.

Lately I've been going through a pullover/fleece phase, as evidenced by: 1) already blogged about the Madewell one; 2) own the Frank & Eileen version; 3) and keeping my eyes on the Kate Spade one. Today I'd like to do a quick review of the popular Vineyard Vines shep shirt.

Vineyard Vines is a brand that I'm not too familiar with. I own a few long sleeve graphic tees in size S from seasons past (can never seem to pass up the goofy whale in costume). For shep shirts, I was torn between my regular size of S or downsizing to XS. The style I eventually bought is the "relaxed" version, so I downsized to XS. This version is roomier overall and is longer in the back -- perfect for wearing with tights. I'm still able to layer a button-up shirt underneath (this is a personal preference, but I prefer to wear these half-zip pullovers unzipped, hence layering with non-crewnecks). If I had bought the "regular" shep shirt, I would've stayed with my usual size S.

The other feature that caught my eye is the strip of red plaid underneath the hem. It can be purposely folded outwards (see first photo below) or left as is (see third photo below) for two different looks depending on your mood.

I have yet to wash the shep shirt, so fingers crossed that it won't shrink. Per directions, wash cold and I plan on hanging it up to dry.