September 15, 2013

Yesterday I picked up this David Meister dress. I love its simplicity and quality but was worried that it might read a bit too conservative and staid.

Thanks to your suggestions, I think I've found a few more ways to wear it, so it is staying for sure.

In fact, I'm officially in love with it!

I am still sadly short on toppers (a subject for another post) but we will work on that. :-)

If there are any you especially like, would appreciate your thoughts.

I would like to find a way other than scarves to change the look. I have enjoyed going scarf-less during the summer. I like the minimalism. But I find myself relying on them so much in winter, often for warmth, but also for interest.

If I were to get a new necklace, what type would work, do you think? And what kind of toppers should I consider?

I do have my white leather jacket, but it is being altered right now, so I could not show it.

Posted in the Dressing category

This post is also published in the youlookfab forum. You can read and reply to it in either place. All replies will appear in both places.

46 Comments

Ingunn replied 10 years ago

If I MUST choose, I love #2, #4 and #8, but I really like all the ways you've styled it. The dress is perfect for you! Not staid at all, no matter how you do it.

I have similar thoughts about scarves. This season, I'm reluctant to put them back in circulation. But what to replace them with? We definitely will be needing them for warmth, both of us. I have a simple necklace, a chain with a few black pearls on, that I wear sometimes. Big statement necklaces don't work for me in general, but I think, if I found the right one I might give it a try. Have you considered the same?
Suz replied 10 years ago

Ingunn, that is just it! I KNOW I will be wearing scarves again, willy nilly! Unless I am wearing a turtleneck, I pretty much have to. Of course I can wear an "outdoor" scarf only some days (just with the outerwear). But for the past few years I seem to have craved that coziness indoors, too. Maybe it is part of aging or maybe it is our draughty old house.

It's not that I dislike scarves. I don't. But I'm feeling bored of the way I tend to rely on them.

I have considered a statement type necklace, but not being much of a jewelry wearer I don't have a clue what to look for. I would love advice on that!
RoseandJoan replied 10 years ago

I also LOVE 2, 4 & 8 but there is not a bad look here. I wear jumpers over my dresses a lot to change the vibe which may be worth a try.

The dress is fab buy Suz. Don't you just love those items where everything just falls into place and there is no need to question your purchase?
Ingunn replied 10 years ago

One of the reasons that I dislike statement jewelry on me is the weight. I looked at one in Zara the other day, and the weight of it would give me tension headache/migraine in no time. So, weight is part of it indeed. I also don't like them to be all that colorful. A simple, bold chain would maybe look good? Everything I try on seems so wrong on me. I agree, the feel of a scarf in winter is very soothing. I still love my leopard scarf in silk and cashmere because it is so versatile, soft and warm. It can be fluffed up or down as I desire. Maybe we just have to work on finding a new, fresh way to knot them, Suz!
donnat replied 10 years ago

My favourites are #2 and #4. I also really like #5 and #6. I bet your white leather jacket will look great.
I am thinking a statement necklace would look nice, but not a huge one. I hear you on the scarves. I have never been a huge fan. I take mine off with my coat. I think they look nice on other people but i also find them too fussy.
cobaltblue replied 10 years ago

Every one works! I love 4, 5, and 6. Perfect with taupe, fuchsia, and white! I'll be looking forward to seeing it with the white leather, too.

I don't think there's a way around scarves except for to wear outdoor only scarves out in the elements and throw on something cozy but not fashion-y if needed at home. I think that would defeat the purpose of getting away from scarves as a stylistic choice, though, especially since you're trying to upgrade your work at home wear. Turtlenecks seem to be the only other option!
Traci replied 10 years ago

For a statement necklace, I love amber. I'm not sure if it would be your style, but I really love the multi strand amber chip necklaces. They're very organic looking, but also refined to me. I think the colors in amber look fantastic with navy. Sometimes these necklaces are designed with intermittent chips of turquoise.

Added bonus, amber is feather light!

I'm having a really tough time finding a picture online of the type of necklace I'm describing. If it sounds appealing to you at all I'll keep digging, or post a picture of my own.
Suz replied 10 years ago

Well, Traci, I think your advice is spot on, because so far, of these looks, one of my favourites is the white shirt look you suggested! So if you have time to post a photo of your amber necklace (maybe in an outfit?) I'd love that. And guess what? My city has a store that sells amber jewelry exclusively. My daughter happens to love amber, too, and I have to take her out to do some errands today. Maybe we will stop in!
Gaylene replied 10 years ago

Hands down my favorite is #4; all of the other scarf looks are definitely OK, but I am really liking the pared down simplicity of #4 which, to me, really puts the focus on how great you look in the dress instead of on your outfit. The necklace is fine, but I think the outfit would still look great without it, or maybe with an interesting cuff? This is entirely subjective, of course, but I think I'm getting a bit weary of the multi-layered/ALGO-with-accessories look these days; the strong simplicity of #4 just seems like such a modern, refreshing change to my eye.
Traci replied 10 years ago

Here's a link to the best pic I can find of my necklace so far. It's in the 2nd photo.

http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....-this-week

Sorry the detail isn't too great.
Kyle replied 10 years ago

Number 2 and Number 8 speak to me the most. Both are simple, but have an unexpected twist. They feel the most modern. The burgundy details in Number 2 are on trend and beautiful accents to the dress. Layering the blouse under the dress is so very clever. It gives me an idea for my own closet.

Sorry I can't offer much help in the scarf department, and personally I don't think you need much in the way of accessories. Simplicity really works for you. You've honed in on your style to the point that you seem to nail every outfit, Suz.
Gaylene replied 10 years ago

Just jumping in again to add another observation. I've always thought that you and Angie shared a similar aesthetic, and one of the things I've noticed is the strong simplicity of many of the outfits that Angie has posted recently. The layering and accessorizing is kept to a minimum which, to me, looks refreshingly modern.

1 2 3 4 5
jayne replied 10 years ago

1. LUV the dress, perfect for you in style, color and fit!
2. I have been getting more and more pendant necklaces lately. I feel they are more refined than the big statement necklaces and less trendy. I would suggest pendant that you fall for!
Scarlet replied 10 years ago

Well, there you go! Way to spunk it up. 2-4 are my best, but they are all great. You are really good at this stuff!
Peri replied 10 years ago

As I am so behind the curve on everything, I just started wearing scarves last winter...fell in love with them and can't wait to wear them again.

But I'm also a jewelry girl so for a statement necklace I suggest a longish (breastbone length) pendant. Since it would just be one thing on a chain I think you could wear that without feeling too flashy or that it was heavy. I'd suggest my beautiful agate, but you can't have it, it's mine!! :)

Do you remember it from about a week ago...the one where I wore the Suz top? I would link it if I was smart enough, but I'm sure you can find the post. Something like that would look great with your dress and it almost seems minimal to me...one striking thing on a chain.
nancylee replied 10 years ago

I absolutely love you in the simple sheath silhouette of this David Meister dress, Suz. The boat/slash neck works so well for your figure. It's super flattering and sure to get plenty of wear.

As for a necklace, you could go with either a long pendant necklace for simpler occasions or a blingy short statement necklace for dressier occasions. (JCrew is featuring a lot of them this fall):

http://www.jcrew.com/womens_ca.....lry-B-Exac
Suz replied 10 years ago

Thank you, everyone. Such great ideas and observations.

Nancy, I'll check J. Crew for a statement necklace.

And Peri, of course I remember your agate! I agree with you that a longer pendant might work better than the one I have. (I only own the one and this is the longest chain I have).

Thanks, Scarlet!

And Jayne, sounds like you and Peri are on the same wavelength.

Gaylene, you are right that Angie and I share and aesthetic and have similar body types as well -- and that she rocks those simple looks! I think to do this you need really high quality items and also, I notice that her belts and bags often complete the look. I am not much of a bag lady (but am willing to learn) but I am slowly collecting belts. Footwear is really crucial, too. Even though my fall footwear capsule is in much better shape than in previous years, I could still stand to do some work there.

Kyle, thank you! You are so sweet.

Traci, that necklace looks just sensational on you. I love how it works with your hair and the camel skirt. I think they sell those at our amber store. I am going to check, because I agree with you -- this feels less "blingy" and somehow more organic. And works with blue and grey very well.
Ornella replied 10 years ago

Suz, I adore the dress. I can't believe you had any doubts about keeping it. you've styled it perfectly. Each look is so different and equally spectacular.

I had to smile while reading "I have enjoyed going scarf-less during the summer. I like the minimalism." I totally get this, I am almost sad the summer is over because I've truly enjoyed ultra-simple outfits.
Beth Ann replied 10 years ago

It's all in the styling, even with a simple dress, isn't it? All are fab, but 2, 4, and 8 are my favorites. You know, finding great jeans feels good, but there's nothing like a new dress.
MsMary replied 10 years ago

These are all ridiculously fab! Now cut. those. tags.
Day Vies replied 10 years ago

Suz I must know, I am sure you've sprinkled the answer to my forthcoming question in some of your other posts but what is your season (color analysis)?
I'm asking because generally I am not a fan of this mid-tone blue with gray undertones. I prefer cobalt, ice blue, cerulean, aqua, ink, and navy, but this color simply comes alive on you especially so when paired with white. I gasped when I saw #5 and #8. In #8 the red booties are a FABULOUS complement. I love the variations on #5 in #4 and #7.

All of the combos are good even #1 I think the dress has lovely lines and details -- it stands up well on its own. It doesn't need a lot of help to look fashionable. As a result I don't get staid or boring regardless of how you style it. I especially appreciate the 3/4 length sleeves. I like this dress mostly with booties on you and I find that odd because usually I have a poison eye for dress/skirt & bootie pairings.
Niefern replied 10 years ago

What a fine dress, you look great in all those looks. If I had to choose one, maybe #5, but it is really difficult!
Isabel replied 10 years ago

Wow. I am not sure what to say. They are all so amazing. You have just really hit your stride as of late. I am going for 2 because it is my favorite color combo of all time.

Also, do you know how long your denim jacket is ? Thanks !!!
Suz replied 10 years ago

Isabel, I can measure my jacket and PM you. Remember that I am shortwaisted.

And thank you!

Thanks, Neifern! You are always so encouraging.

DV, thank you for that bootie comment! It means the world and a day to me, since I am still a bit nervous about myself in booties and dresses! If you like it, it must be working. So I will take it!!

I had my colours "done" before YLF and was judged to be a "true" or "cool" summer, somewhat to the surprise of the person typing me, who first pegged me as a possible autumn, and then as a light or soft summer (due to my hair and relative low contrast colouring) -- only to be confounded by the fact that I did not look good in any of summer's true lights EXCEPT blue, and look much better in mid-tones to darks.

Basically, my mantra is, if in doubt, pick the blue. I can wear almost any shade except palest ice blue. And even that would probably work in the right combinations. This dress is actually a navy, but you're right - it's not a dark navy.

Thank you Mary, Beth Ann, Ornella!
Day Vies replied 10 years ago

You are more than welcomed Suz. The booties are definitely working for you.

I'm no expert on color analysis but summer seems to me an odd choice for you especially since you look so good in high contrast black with crisp white especially with fuchsia. I've been digging into my own colors lately only out of curiosity. I think I'm a deep winter now and when I dyed my hair auburn a few years ago was deep autumn.
Marley replied 10 years ago

These all look really good Suz - and I'm assuming that you are trying different items with it, in order to make the dress more versatile, right? I totally understand that - but, to me, this dress is so gorgeous that my favorite look would be one with a rich looking clutch and footwear - and nothing else. Let the dress speak for itself.

For versatility though, all of your stylings work - perhaps try a semi-dangly earring (to fill out the neck/shoulder line) - and some booties - as another option too? However, I like all of the looks you've posted. I might try a longer pendant necklace with the taupe jacket just to see how that looks. To me, because you've got some pleating (or something going on on the front of the dress) a statement necklace would just be too much.

Also, what are the boots in #4? So fab!
sarah replied 10 years ago

Suz, that is an exceptionally flattering dress on you. Wow. You are lucky to find such a dress. I actually love it in #1 - it's so flattering and has interesting detail, that it does very well on its own. I also like 2-4, although I think I would prefer 4 with the pink scarf from 6.
Lyn D. replied 10 years ago

The dress is so lovely Suz, in all your pics!
I love my scarfs too, but this year pared them down and went for plainer ones with more texture .
2 favourites were a knit infinity, and an ultra soft fake fur that is fairly short and one end tucks into the other.
Otherwise I relied on interesting outerwear- jackets, booties and textured tights.
annagybe replied 10 years ago

I love statement necklaces.

http://www.clubmonaco.com/prod.....17.1245474

http://www.clubmonaco.com/prod.....17.1245474

http://www.clubmonaco.com/prod.....17.1245474

Club Monaco often goes on sale

http://www.shopbop.com/bib-dro.....4302060432

I can't remember if you mostly wear silver or gold.
unfrumped replied 10 years ago

SO glad you got the dress. I love it with the liger jacket as poised to cropped, thigh I see howcthose help casualize it. I like the open linear thing goig on eith the taupe jacket-/ what else fo you have that does thst? maybe kimono?
I am a scarf magnet,but then tend not to wear them because they get fussy. So I do wear necklaces. Wouldn't get caught up in terms statement-- though to me that evokes the big bib thingies- so I'd just go try on soe stuff and see what lengths & weights look good. Pendants do work with boatnecks.
Suz replied 10 years ago

Thanks, Anna - - good call - and they deliver, too, bwahaha....

Lyn, yes, I have been preferring the squarer shape to a longer one if I wear a scarf at all. Or I tie it infinity style so it does not dangle as much.

Thank you, Sarah!

Marley, I agree - it really is best on its own. But you know...I was worried it was too dressy/ conservative and was trying to make it more versatile and find ways to extend its life. The booties in 4 are DVs from last year; Una has them in black. I forget the name -- it might have been Joust? I wore them like crazy last year. I bought a longer chain for my pendant today -- yippee. And I agree -- the pleating in the front makes a necklace a bit problematic in the first place. Except maybe a collar type.

DV -- I think I do look good in high contrast; it's strange, or maybe not so strange. It's not all about colour, after all. Personality and body type also play a role. According to the Kibbe typology I'm a "dramatic classic" which means I do need some drama. Also, it's a misapprehension that summer's colours are all soft or light. Cool or true summer's colours are actually almost as bright or intense as winter's -- they just have a bit of grey in them.

The other thing to add is that high contrast is striking and therefore makes a good photo, you know? IRL the effect can sometimes be a bit different. That said, I have always liked myself in mid-tones to darks with touches of white or light. So I agree with you there.
Angie replied 10 years ago

(Thanks for the kind words Gaylene and Suz).

Suz, all stellar looks, and you have proved the versatility of that killer frock. I like #1 best - just YOU and a stunning piece. No need to anything more to what is already a work of art. xo
Deborah replied 10 years ago

Oh Angie beat me to it. #1 is my favourite too. The simplicity and elegance of the dress is just beautiful on you Suz. It is definitely a keeper.
Jaime replied 10 years ago

You are like the illustration in the text book under versatile dresses. I love it just as it is in the first shot, with the white shirt under it, with the taupe leather and also with the scarf and boots in the second picture I think. I like it less with both jacket and scarf but think it will look beautiful with a longer coat and scarf as weather insists.
Isabel replied 10 years ago

Thank you soooo much Suz for answering on both posts ! I am quite long waisted. I guess I will have to go try some on actually. UGH ! :-)
Joy replied 10 years ago

This dress is beautiful on you. I like 1 and the dressed down versions 4, 5, & 6 the best. Of course you could always change it with a furry black vest. (Kidding!) I think your choice of booties and boots can keep it from being too conservative (picturing leopard booties or pumps with #1). Maybe a moto jacket? I silk or lac bomber? The jackets pictured all look great.
Ariadne replied 10 years ago

Gorgeous, gorgeous dress! I love it.

I've found that J.Crew jewelry is no better, quality-wise, than Forever 21, who often offer similar options. You can also find J.Crew jewelry on ebay for a fraction of the price (no clue if it's the real stuff or fake, but it looks just as good to my eye). Just wanted to mention in case you're not sure of the statement necklace idea for yourself and want to try it on the cheap.
Lantana replied 10 years ago

Late to join in but needed to say my favourite is #1 -and I see Angie has said this already but I promise you I am not borrowing her opinion.
I think you have boodles of options here to accommodate plenty of different occasons. I have seen a nice grey Stewart dress tartan scarf that might go well with this dress. It is grey and white, no other colours at all, so softly dramatic, you know.
CocoLion replied 10 years ago

Haven't read through the responses, but I love #1, 2 and 4! #1 is my favorite, it shows the simple perfection of the dress as well as the neckline which is fantastic on you. You put the dress in the #1 picture, do you feel the same?

I could see this dress looking great with a coat and nothing else between. Kind of like the mink coat and dress thing of yore. It's a dramatic, simple look to have a great dress and a great coat, pumps and a clutch and that's it. OK maybe one accessory allowed.
lyn67 replied 10 years ago

How could you have doubts on this dress, Suz!!!!! It's all stellar, but I'm mesmerized by nr. 4.(OK, by nr.1, and nr 8, too:-))).
Almost fainted, with a neutral crash helmet!:-)
goldenpig replied 10 years ago

Wow, what a stunning dress on you, and so versatile to boot! Love the simplicity of #1, but #5 is amazing too! You look so great in bright white! Ha, you're the opposite of me--I'm all about jewelry especially statement necklaces, but can't seem to make scarves work for me. They look so effortless on you! Why change what works? But if you want to try a statement necklace, how about something in white? Kind of like my Kate Spade Fiorella bib necklace that I wore with my black sheath dress.

1
texstyle replied 10 years ago

#1 is stunning Suz - and I agree, simple is good here, you look amazing. The others are all of course great options too. Some outfits just don't seem to need jewelry but if you choose something you love, maybe you will find it to be a good alternative to your scarves. I love organic looking pieces in sterling engraved, bronzed, flowy shaped, etc. My other jewelry usually sits waiting while I choose one of maybe three or four things on a regular basis. I like to look at Garnet Hill, Sundance, Peruvian Connection and places like that to find more organic looking pieces. You have to sift through some boho stuff but they often have one or two more modern gems hidden among them.
replied 10 years ago

Oh my goodness Suz! I had to go back and read all of your threads to get caught up. Such excitement! I think this is a lovely, flattering dress that might just be as versatile as your old (was it Rag and Bone?) handed-down and tailored dress. Now answer me this. Don't you have a similar navy sweater dress by Ralph Lauren? Maybe the fabric weights make them two different animals. I clicked on the link for this Meister dress, and could not find any info on the fiber content, only "stretch crepe" or some such thing. Is this dress a bit more season-less and the RL is more for deep winter? Anyhoo, it's gorgeous on you and I enjoyed seeing all of your other finds, too. :D
AviaMariah replied 10 years ago

#1, #4, and #8 are my favorites. But I tend to think less is more. :)
Suz replied 10 years ago

Thanks everyone. I appreciate the links, Tex. And the visuals, Natalie! Particularly since your dress also has similar detailing. I am going to look for a great necklace.

Claire, my RL dress is a completely different animal. It IS navy blue. But it is a cotton knit sweater dress, sporty and casual. It's actually a spring or autumn weight for my climate, and sleeveless. I "winterized" it by wearing it over blouses, thin turtelnecks, and wearing toppers over it. It's a fantastic travelling dress or casual day at home or in my city dress. You can dress it up a little bit because it's a nice blank canvas, but it's primarily for more casual wear.

This dress is much more structured and formal. It can be dressed down (as I have proved here) but I intend it primarily for dressier functions. It is also a true winter dress, beautifully lined. The fabric is indeed some sort of poly, but it's a very special poly, with gorgeous lining and construction. It has sleeves (amazing!).

I also have my Nicole Miller sheath which is even more dressy (more cocktail dress). So that is another navy dress!
pil replied 10 years ago

Very late to this thread - but what a gorgeous, versatile dress. Wow!

Pix-Elated

DressMeister

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