Build Your Basics: Dresses

In continuation of my Build Your Basics series (where I go over the major categories of things to have in your closet and do a dive into my favorite styles in each category), we’re talking dresses!

If you missed it, you can read up on Bags, Jeans, and Tees & Shirts!

My “Must-Have” Styles

1. Fitted/Body-Con Option

This style can be a little intimidating, but it’s one that I find myself drawn to year after year. I like that it can be dressed up or dressed down depending on your needs! I wear some shape wear underneath to help me feel a little more comfortable in something so tight and almost always add a top layer of some sort, too!

My Favorites:

Treasure & Bond Ruched Side Sleeveless Dress & Michael Stars Ultra Rib Maya Dress (wearing in photo above)

Other Options:

2. Conservative/More Full Coverage Dress

I love an option like this for spring holidays, like Easter, bridal and baby showers, or church. The fun print makes it feel fun and playful, even though it offers more coverage than some other options.

My Favorite:

BB Dakota Fresh Squeezed Dress (wearing in photo above)

Other Options:

3. Something To Wear On A Hot Day

It gets hot in the summer here, so I need lightweight dress options for those days. Something like this with the bare minimum of fabric comes in handy in July and August!

My Favorite:

Old Navy Tiered Clip-Dot Mini Cami Dress (similar optionversion I’m wearing above is from last year)

Other Options:

4. Something That Can Easily Be Dressed Up Or Down

Versatility is very key for me in my closet, so having options that can be worn a few different ways is great! A dress like this can be easily dressed up for a spring holiday or party, to styled down with sneakers and a belt bag. I love the sleeves and that it has an on-trend neckline, too!

My Favorite:

Madewell Lizzie Eyelet Babydoll Dress (wearing in photo above)

Other Options:

5. A Classic Black Dress

I actually need to add one of these to my closet, so for now, my sister will be my model! A classic black dress is a must-have. Get one that can be dressed up or worn more casually, so that you can always reach for it in a pinch!

My Favorite:

Paige Rozlyn Dress (Kate is wearing in photo above)

Other Options:

 

Hi there!

Lauren Bown Lifestyle Blog is an online destination where I share my personal style, beauty finds, and bits of life in hopes to inspire other women to feel good in their skin and find the beauty in the ordinary.

browse the archives

shop my instagram

Leave a Comment

3 Comments

  1. 4.5.22
    Dian said:

    Thanks. This is a nice round up. I know I’m supposed to be focused on the dresses but i loved the shoes you chose as well. What shoes are you wearing in the first photo of the Michael Stars dress?

    • 4.5.22
      Lauren said:

      Gola sneakers from Evereve

    • 4.6.22
      Mary said:

      Thank you for doing these series! They have been so helpful. I’ve been in the process of adjusting my closet from professional/ work attire to more everyday practical outfits now that I stay home with my daughter. I love the way you break everything down & offer different price points. It’s so well rounded! Can’t wait to see what other ones you do ☺️