At 57, I finally found a summer dress that skims my middle instead of grabbing it
A letter from a reader
At 57, I finally found a summer dress that skims my middle instead of grabbing it
I don't normally write reviews, but I actually have quite a bit to say about this one.
The lunch I wore it to
I first wore my Moana dress to my niece's birthday lunch. It was outdoors at a winery and the weather ended up much warmer than expected, so I was very glad I hadn't worn the trousers and blouse I originally had planned.
Why finding a dress had become so frustrating
Finding dresses has become surprisingly frustrating for me over the last few years. I'm 57 and I don't want to dress like I'm 25, but I also don't want everything to look frumpy just because I'm older. My biggest issue is usually around my waist and upper arms. Things can look lovely on the model and then feel completely different once I put them on.
How I found it
I actually found it through a Facebook ad. I looked at the dress a couple of times before ordering because I hadn't heard of the shop before and I'm always a bit suspicious of Facebook shops.
The moment in front of the mirror
When it arrived, I tried it on expecting I'd probably have to send it back.
Instead, I stood in front of the mirror and thought, “Oh, this actually works.”
It skimmed over my middle rather than grabbing it and I didn't feel like I needed shapewear underneath.
What happened at lunch
My niece asked where it was from, and later one of the other women at lunch said I looked very summery, which was lovely to hear.
Three things I've noticed since
- It doesn't cling when it's hot.
- I can sit comfortably in it after a big lunch.
- It still looked good after washing. I've only washed it twice, so obviously I can't comment on how it will look in a year, but so far so good.
About the price
I hesitated slightly when I ordered because buying clothes online is always a gamble. Now that I've worn it, I think the price was fair.
What I'd tell a friend
If she likes relaxed dresses but still wants to feel feminine, it's worth trying. I'd also say to check the sizing properly rather than automatically ordering your usual size.
— Karen
The Moana Dress
A$273.95 A$79.95
- Soft and breathable feel
- Midi length, sleeveless
- Relaxed fit, pull-on style
- Moves naturally with the body
Sizes S to 5XL (AU 8 to 38) · Free tracked delivery Australia wide
Check the size chart next to the size options before you order.
This page is an advertisement for Portsea Boutique. Karen is a customer and gave her permission to share her letter.