June 25, 2015

Reviewing my (fabulous!) new Dot Dash Dress from Love Ur Look





Outfit details

Vintage royal blue nylon hair scarf: (Probably) eBay
White plastic rose earrings: Claire's
1980s does 1940s/50s red plastic beaded necklace: Gift with purchase years ago
Vintage inspired Dot Dash A-line Dress c/o: Love Ur Look
Royal blue cardigan: Garage Clothing
Red plastic bangle bracelet: Forever 21
Vintage wide yellow bangle bracelet: Thrifted
Vintage white plastic bangle bracelet: Thrifted
Red faux leather cross body bag: eBay
1950s white embroidered wrist length gloves: Unknown, had for years (likely eBay or Etsy)
Nude seamed nude stockings: eBay
Dark blue patent pumps: Payless
Lip colour: MAC Russian Red


Photography by Tony Cangiano

































































There are a substantial number of vintage reproduction and vintage inspired clothing lines that I've had massive crushes on for years now, but which - often because of pesky things like a weak Canadian dollar, shipping and import costs, and/or the items I love most from said brands selling out before I can get to them - I've not yet had the pleasure of adding any of their fine offerings to my closet.

One of those companies, whose offerings I've swooned up many a storm over for quite a while now, is the much adored European brand, Love Ur Look, who put out a modest sized, curated selection of beautiful offerings each year (and have some really commendable ethical business practises, as detailed on their About page).

Thus when I was contacted by them and kindly offered a choice of one of two of their latest warm weather frocks, I couldn't say yes quickly enough. I've been curious for ages now about the fit, quality, silhouette and other elements of this brand's products and let me just say, once I finally had one in my hands, I was impressed!

I opted for the Dot Dash A-line Dress, because it is both incredibly cute and also quite different than any other frock I currently own. Being short and curvy, I often steer clear of all, or predominately, white dresses and, really, garments in general, but I had a feeling that the cut and use of primary hues on this dress would help "save me", if you will, there and thankfully such was definitely the case.

You guys, seriously, I am ridiculously in love with this dress. Permit me then for a moment to extol some of its many, many virtues:


-Length: I just barely squeak in at 5'2" and where the hem hits here on me is my favourite length for a dress (or skirt). A little past mid-calf, but not quite ankle grazing - what is often called "tea length". It's long enough to add a crinoline underneath, though there is already a bit of one built into the skirt (as you can see in a couple of the snaps above), so you'd likely get a lot of fullness if you added more tulle beneath this relatively wide skirt. I could not be any happier with the length of this dress on me.

-Sleeveless: While I rarely bare my arms completely in public due to reasons of personal modesty, I flat out love it when dresses are sleeveless because it means less bulk when layering, something that I’m always conscious of given that my upper arms are not my best feature in the slightest.

-Matching fabric belt: Though there are no actual belt loops on this dress, it comes with a thin belt made out of matching fabric. If you didn't want to wear it around your waist, you could easily utilize it as a skinny hair tie/scarf instead, if so desired (or forgo using it entirely).

-It has pockets: I love, love, lovvvvvve it when dresses or skirts have pockets and this charmer includes two at a nice, natural hip height. So handy, so practical, soooo appreciated!
-Crisp colours: Though the fabric that this dress is made from is quite thin, thanks to the fact that it's 100% cotton, the colours on it are fabulously sharp, vibrant and beautiful.

-Awesome neckline: Seriously, this has to be one of my favourite necklines on any garment I've ever owned. From the wide shawl meets sailor shaded collar to the built in panel of red and white striped fabric, this neckline is fun, flattering, and fabulously unique.

-Fantastic nautical vibe: From the primarily colour palette of blue, red, and yellow set atop snow white to the mid-century modern-esque design of the pattern itself (which somewhat resembles highly stylized bunting flags) to the striped fabric at the neckline, there is such a charming, super vintage-y nautical vibe at work here that I just adore!

-Fit: I love the fit of this dress. From the bust to the waist to the arm holes, it fits me excellently and is quite true to size, in my opinion (plus its a-line shape is very becoming and would work well on most types of figures).

-Price: At £56.00, this dress is still within the reach of many folks and is what I'd call middle of the road in terms of price point for cotton vintage style dresses. Considering the built in tulle underskirt, awesome pattern, tea length skirt, exciting neckline, and warm weather versatility of the frock, I think its price is very fair and would genuinely have no problem paying that myself, had I purchased this dress, instead of receiving it as a review gift (thank you so much for it, Love Ur Look).


As you can no doubt gather, I am smitten with this dress. I wore it for a family get together at my sister's house on Mother's Day, to antiques & second hand auction last month, and am slipping it on more days than not when out running errands or just bopping around, as Tony and I were doing on the sunny afternoon recently when we captured these photos in the delightful little nearby town of Summerland (which, despite its proximity of less than 20 minutes from Penticton, we had somehow, entirely unintentionally, never done a shot in before).

It was a glorious late spring day - one of those days that you wish you could put it a jar and let out again come the dark evenings of January, when summer feels like it might as well be on another planet. To embrace the warm weather, I teamed this darling Love Ur Look dress with a vintage royal blue head nylon scarf, royal blue cardigan, a trio of plastic bangle bracelets, a red vintage necklace, my trusty white plastic rose earrings, wrist length white 1950s gloves, red cross body/shoulder bag, and dark blue pumps.

If I could only wear one vintage reproduction/inspired dress this summer, this gem from Love Ur Look would be it. It is perfect for the sun-kissed months and would come with me instantly, were I packing for a warm weather vacation anytime of the year. This is my first item from this popular UK line, and I wholeheartedly hope that it won't be my last - as I am beyond in love - quite fittingly give the brand's name - with this marvelously fun Dot Dash A-line Dress.

Do you own anything from Love Ur Look? How has your experience been with this wonderful brand's offerings?

62 comments:

  1. This dress is so cute, and it suits you perfectly - you look so fabulous! I like the striped detail of the neckline, and the print is adorable. It's nautical inspired without being too "brash". Perfect to pair so many accessories with it.

    I found Love Ur Look some times ago and though, oh great, they're selling fabric. However, since a year or so it keeps announcing "Coming soon"... I'm waiting patiently...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hello dear Doris, thank you very much for your wonderfully nice comment and compliment. I agree, this dress is me to a tee! Girly, mid-century looking, vibrant, fitted, mid-calf length, amazing details, belted - it seriously nails everything I look for in a causal vintage frock and I feel very fortunate to have been able to add it to my closet.

      It would be awesome if they started selling fabric. I hope that they will and know that you'll make absolutely amazing garments with it, if they do. Should I hear anything on that front, I'll be sure to let you know.

      Big hugs!
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  2. I'm seriously in like with that neckline detail. That little punch of red and that wide collar in my opinion makes this one adorable dress.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Isn't it out of this world? I love that neckline to bits, too. It's one of the most creative and fun I've ever seen on a garment, past or present. Plus, IMO, it works well on me, which is not the case with all types of necklines in the slightest - so extra big win there!

      Thank you very much for your lovely comment. I hope that your summer is off to a great start!
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  3. that is a really nice dress. It really suits you! I love the way you did your eyebrows too :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you very much, lovely Sylvie! It's so sweet of you to say that you like my eyebrows. That means all the more to me since I have to pencil them in due to lack of much in the way of real ones (just like hair on my head).

      Have a great 1st week of summer!
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  4. Not sure if my comment made it...

    You look lovely! That length is one of my favourites in a vintage-inspired dress as well - and I'm short too (5'4"). I absolutely am a fan of no belt loops - no one tells me where to belt! Enjoy the warm weekend!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Shelia, thank you so much! This is the only comment I'm seeing waiting for approval from you, so it looks like the interwebz might have eaten your other one (that happens to me sometimes, too - especially if you lose internet connectivity for a split second while trying to submit your comment).

      This is the perfect length dress in my books. I'm sure that for some with long, slender legs shorter or even longer lengths are perfect for them, but this is the sweet spot for me and I wish every dress and skirt I had could hit in the same point.

      Many thanks again & have a fabulous weekend yourself, too!
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  5. You look radiant in this adorable dress!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. *Blush* That's such a splendidly nice compliment, sweet Inky. Thank you soooo much! I love this dress - it's like summer at the beach in garment form.

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  6. You totally feel better when you love what you are wearing: its a fact !!
    Pockets have been THE REASON I have purchased a dress … its an important factor.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Pockets on a dress are seriously awesome! Save for those few times when they throw off the lines of an otherwise great dress, they're so wonderful and (obviously) practical. I really wish more repro/vintage inspired lines would include them in their dresses and skirts. Love Ur Look really nailed it all around on this fabulous dress and I tell you, it makes me want to add many more of their great offerings to my closet.

      Thank you very much for your lovely comment, dear Lorena. Have a fantastic weekend!

      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  7. I love the primary colors of this look! I too shy away from white dresses, and well-white anything really as I fear light colors on my curves! I am trying to branch out by at least making lighter colored blouses. I like the wide sailor-ish collar on this dress too, nautical without being too literal!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Ooohh, same here, big time - ditto for all (or mostly) white skirts. Thankfully the riot of colours in this one helped to make the white a background player, not the star of the show and I was delightfully surprised by how flattering (IMO) it was.

      Thank you very much for your great comment, my dear!
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
    2. This is a beautiful dress! I actually thought it was real vintage at first. I love how you styled it--the colors are just perfection.

      Delete
    3. Thank you very much, sweet lady. I completely agree, it does have a strong vintage feel in a way that a lot of more pinup/rockabilly brands often do not these days. I also found the cut to be pleasingly old school, which tends to work great for my body, as this dress did. It's a huge winner all around in my books and I really hope that I'm able to add more of Love Ur Look's offerings to my closet as time goes on.

      Big hugs & happy (almost) Friday wishes!
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  8. I love this outfit! Oh that colours are perfect! Wonderful! Très "libération "in french!
    Amitiés!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. What a touchingly lovely comparison, dear Maud. Thank you very much!

      I hope that your summer is already off to a splendid start and that each day of it brings you joy and fun!

      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  9. Jessica! We're scarf twins! I'm wearing a lilac scarf at a jaunty angle today too (actually, every day but today we match) ❤

    I love this dress, it's very pretty, this whole ensemble is glorious actually xxx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That's very cool!!! I wear scarves like this so often - like multiple times a week often - and adore the look. Not only is it cute and vintage appropriate, but it has the added bonus in my case of helping to both further secure and also jazz up my wig, which like most (wigs) has very limited styling options in terms of hairdos, so it's accessories (snoods, flowers, barrettes, bands, scarves, hats, etc) to the rescue! :)

      You're wonderfully sweet. Thank you very much - I agree this dress is really glorious and such a unique, memorable garment.

      Tons of hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  10. Beautiful pop of color! I nautical colors for summer outfits. Love the red purse, too. As a vintage loving gal, do you carry vintage items in your handbag? Hope to see one of your summery straw bags, too!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi April, thank you very much for your lovely comment. It's always so nice to hear from you. Great question! I usually combine a mix of vintage and newer items in my purse, most of which either look the vintage part or are extremely classic. Thanks for asking about that, you're one of the first people to ever do so.

      Wishing you a fantastic weekend!
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  11. oh yes!!! thats a fabulous dress!!! :-)
    especially love the print - so fresh and elegant. and it fits you perfectly! you look sooo cute! love the pic with the huge flowers painted on the wall!!!!!
    hugs!!! xxxx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you very much, sweet Beate. I love (!!!) the fit of this dress. I can't fault it in any way and wish that I had a hundred others that fit like it did. Not all repro/vintage style brands work well on my figure, but this example from Love Ur Look more than does and that really fills me with confidence for future selections from this delightful European brand.

      Many thanks again & have a stellar weekend!
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  12. Another lovely outfit for your collection, Jess!

    <3 Jackie

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you very much, Jackie. Absolutely! My wardrobe - especially my summer one - is so grateful to have this delightfully pretty addition. It's my style to a tee!

      Wishing you a great start of summer!
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  13. Denise @BuyRVintageJunkJune 25, 2015 at 7:09 PM

    That dress looks like confetti! It's very pretty and fits you well, Jessica. It reminds me of our Fourth of July holiday colors, and reminds me of summer gatherings and picnics and ice cream socials...
    Going to check out Love Ur Look!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you very much, lovely Denise. I completely agree! This dress does look like a fabulous shower of festive confetti has rained down upon it - and that just makes me adore it all the more. It would truly be the perfect frock to wear for birthday bash on a beach or boat.

      Wishing you a wonderful first weekend of summer!
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  14. Those gloves just make this outfit!! You are so stunning, ladylike, feminine, and kickass <3

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. *Blush* Thank you massively, my dear! You are so immensely sweet, kind, and lovely as the day is long.

      Huge hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  15. hello,ciao Jessica...very nice:this outfit make shining Your charisma...so breathtaking look...cheers!
    greetings

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you very much, Aure. As always, you flatter me immensely with your thoroughly kind compliments.

      Have a terrific weekend!
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  16. I admire you eye for the details, Jessica.
    Combinign colors like that, giving each of them just enought "space" to show off, but not over-clustering.. that takes a lot of effort (or it takes to be a natural - you are one of these, my dear).
    As for previously mentioned details: I have indeed spotted the adorable embroidery done on your gloves. It's so small and delicate, done in the same color as the glove material, and that makes it "just right".

    Precious outfit post, darling!

    Marija

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. My very sweet friend, thank you so much for your wonderfully lovely and very touching compliment. The fashion art form that you described of as coming naturally, deftly even, to me, is one that I feel incredibly fortunate to possess and that I never take for granted. It can be taught though, if it's not someone thing one is born with, and I think that part of the reason that the state of fashion these days is so often bemoaned is because this is sorely lacking from many people's styles. Is it necessary to look good, probably not, but it can go a massive ways in terms of creating beautiful, standout looks and I for one am always saddened by the fact that it is no longer a commonplace part of composing an ensemble.

      Great eye! I love the tone on tone embroidery here. These gloves came with it, but it's a technique that anyone who enjoys needlework could replicate on a pair themselves. I keep hoping to hit upon a cache of plain white and/or cream vintage gloves to do precisely that with actually.

      Many thanks again & have a fabulous first weekend of summer!
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  17. I would usually avoid a white dress too, but just as you've found this one and it suits you marvellously, I've found one that works for me too recently, so I'm starting to think it's ok if the cut and style is right for you :) Which, of course, this dress is for you as you look marvellous and I can see why you'd keep slipping it on. I love the mix of primary colours on it - you could have a lot of fun with accessorising! The only thing I've never understood about this brand is the name - in the UK, use of the word 'Ur' is quite... I can't think of the word, but it's 'text speak' and not what you'd usually expect to see from a stylish repro brand. I kept seeing their name for a while until I realised what they produced! x

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. How awesome that you've recently hit upon a white dress that works a treat for you as well, sweet gal. Way to go!!! This is one of only a teeny, tiny handful that have done so for me in my whole life, which makes me adore it all the more. I agree with you big time about the importance of cut and style being the main factor there. Adding in some punchy hues, as this dress does marvelously, can help a lot as well.

      That's a very interesting point about your name. Perhaps - 100% total guess here - the brand name "Love Your Look" was already taken, but they wanted to use it still and one way to bypass (another brand having it) was to alter the spelling of one of the words. Again, just a guess, but it's something that happens often with brands, restaurants, etc, so that might account for the use of hat unconventional/more text slang spelling. You've piqued my interest now and should I ever find out the reason why they did so, I'll be sure to let you know.

      Tons of hugs & happy first weekend of summer wishes!
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  18. What a perfectly fresh, feminine look. You look marvelous, beautiful lady.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You are splendidly sweet, dear Christina, thank you very, very much!

      I hope that you have a sunny, marvelous first weekend of summer!
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  19. Hi Jessica,
    I love that dress, you look wonderful it it!
    I've just recently discovered Love ur Look clothing and have ordered a dress from them about a week ago, I'll have to blog mine in the near future as well! :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you very much, lovely Camilla. How awesome that you recently rediscovered this brand and ordered a dress, I know that if I was in the UK, my wallet would be in serious danger from them! :) As it is, it still is - perhaps all the more actually with the currency exchange, shipping, and import costs factored in. :) I really look forward to seeing your dress and am sure that you'll look marvelous in it, too.

      Have a beautiful first weekend of summer,
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  20. That dress is so cute, Jessica. And it looks like an authentic 50s day dress, which makes me like it even more! That mid mod print is fantastic. And, as usual, you styled it beautifully! Am definitely going to check out this company.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you very much, lovely Theresa. Check out Love Ur Look for sure! They're offerings marry sweetness with elegance, whimsy with beauty and are sooo fabulously fun, to boot. I bet you'll fall for them as hard as I have! :)

      Wishing you a stellar first weekend of summer!
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  21. Really pretty! I love that pattern and you look gorgeous! I'll have to check out that brand because I don't know it! XO
    -Lauren Blair
    www.prefertobedemure.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you very much, lovely Lauren. I think this is a brand that hasn't crossed every vintage lover's path yet by any means and I do so hope that my post and support of Love Ur Look's offerings will do its part to help change that. They're a lovely company with seriously fabulous fashions that every old school adoring lady should catch wind of.

      Have a wonderful weekend,
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  22. I can see why you're smitten Jessica! It's you to a tee. I do like prints on a white background, they have such a freshness to them. I know it's not cheap, but I too feel that £60 isn't that bad really for a vintage style dress, I have certainly paid more in the past!! And will in the future, depending on where it's made etc. (always love to support local businesses).

    Looks like you've had a nice bit of sunshine too xx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi sweet gal, thank you very much for your lovely comment. I don't think, especially for those in the UK, that's a bad price either. Repro/vintage inspired lines have skyrocketed in price and while I won't name names here, there are plenty now whose dresses, the quality of which is very similar, range from $150 - $300+ US, so finding a great one under $100 or thereabouts is starting to feel like a good (or at least decent) deal.

      I love supporting local businesses, too, and truly wish Canada had some of its own lines like this. For all intents, we do not, but we do have a tiny number of online repro/vintage inspired sellers and I support them whenever I can.

      Many thanks again & have a fabulous first weekend of summer!
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  23. Pockets! I love! Nautical vibe as well! I loved the gloves, the hair bow, the neckline, the red bag - you look grorgeous! And now my favorite point and also a point in common "I rarely bare my arms completely in public due to reasons of personal modesty" - well, I never show bare arms for that reason too, and also, because I am too conscious of my arms, they are fat. So I loved the dress that way anyway, because we can wear with a nice cardi and feel comfortable! I liked the print as well, and I think you look absolutely fabulous! I want some of your dresses, they are fantastic :)
    DenisesPlanet.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Pockets on dresses are the best! It's always a huge plus in any repro/vintage inspired brand's favour, in my books, when they have some.

      Yes, like yourself, I'm not keen on my upper arms either, which are far thicker than I'd like them to be. But oh well!!! Sleeves to the rescue! :)

      Thank you very much for your wonderful comment - if you lived nearby, I'd happily let you borrow from my closet anytime.

      Have a beautiful first weekend of summer!
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  24. Look, I have a new name - just because of your interview! :)
    I love this combination of colours, perfect for summery days!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you very much, honey - agreed, it's sensational for summer!

      I did indeed notice your new user name and think that it's super cool that it came about thanks to our awesome interview. Love that!

      Big hugs & tons of happy first weekend of summer wishes,
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  25. This dress is just adorable. I know you are Canadian but it just screams fourth if July to me.

    Retro rover

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you very much, sweet Kate. I'm Canadian born and raised for sure, but I still enjoy the 4th of July and always celebrate in spirit with my friends on the other side of the 49th. One day I would love to head down there and spend Independence Day in America. You guys throw such awesome parties and fireworks shows for it!!!

      Have a fabulous start of summer!!!
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  26. You look beyond adorable in this! What a fantastic dress. I love the pattern and color, and the little striped panel in the neckline is the perfect touch to set it off. I love that you've played up the accent colors so beautifully with your accessories - you've always got the perfect scarves and bangles to go with any outfit. Fabulous!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Isn't the striped central panel fantastic? The shape is so cool and really works well with the rest of the silhouette at work in this super charming 50s style frock. It's a design element I'd love to see on more dresses and tops/blouses.

      Thank you very much for both of your terrific comments today, sweet gal. It's always such a joy to hear from you!

      Big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  27. I literally gasped out loud when I saw this stunning frock on you Jessica dear! I know that red is your signature color, but if you were to pick a second one, I'd say that bold royal blue is the perfect hue for you! {Ahaha, I'm a poet and I didn't know it! Lol}

    Really, that dress is so sweet, and you co-ordinated it perfectly. This is a stellar outfit all round! And not only that; we are glove twinsies! I have a pair of vintage gloves that are identical to yours. (>__<) ~ ❤

    xox,
    bonita of Lavender & Twill

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sweet Bonita, you are gloriously kind, thank you very much. It's interesting, you know, I have fallen madly in love with royal blue in a whole new way in recent months - in no small part because of this exact cardigan. I am looking for more pieces in this vibrant colour to weave into my wardrobe - the more recent of which is royal blue nail polish. It's surprisingly versatile - almost like denim for your nails. :)

      Huge thanks again - I swear your comment just made my day.

      Have a beautiful first week of July,
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  28. This dress is truly becoming on you. It has a great War years feel to it that I adore. :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you very much, honey. I truly love the fit of this dress as well and sincerely hope that I add more of Love Ur Look's offerings to my closet, now that I know how well they (or at least this dress) works for me.

      Have a beautiful week!
      ♥ Jessica

      Delete
  29. What a charming frock! It suits you beautifully and it's such a unique print. You've clearly struck gold with this one!

    ReplyDelete
  30. I really like the style and print of the dress and you look lovely in these photos. I always avoid white clothing too but this dress does show that with the correct print it is nothing to be afraid of. I just read Cici's comment which made me giggle as it was exactly what I was going to say. I really struggle with brands that don't spell things correctly to the point that I would probably have ignored this one because it uses 'ur' rather than your.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You're so sweet, dear Kate, thank you very much. I definitely shy away from white clothes, especially larger garments, too, and can really relate (one exception there would be a classic white button front/oxford shirt). I just love that this print helps to give me a white dress that actually looks nice on me, something that can't be said for many all white frocks.

      I hope that you're doing well and having a great week - big hugs,
      ♥ Jessica

      *PS* Watch your mailbox, I sent a wee package your way in late June and hopefully it will get to you soon.

      Delete