The Dress So Good, Three Staffers Own It
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Here at T&C, we pride ourselves on our discerning eye for quality. With Tried & True, our editors will give you an inside look at the pieces they simply cannot live without.
To my knowledge, there are three T&C staffers who own a version of Tory Burch's Claire McCardell dress. In an office filled with dressed-to-the-nines colleagues, the fact that we all have selected the same dress from a brand? Well, that's saying something. And these dresses? They are worth the hype.
In my case, I have the cotton poplin version in a rich plum hue, but the spring 2022 collection had a few iterations, from a plaid silk version, and even a silk shantung with black, white and green throughout. Aside from the choice of color, the design is essentially the same—and has the same effortlessly sculpted effect.
Let me walk you through it: the dress is pleated from the shoulder all the way down to the hem, with a defined waist created by means of pintucks and pinhooks, like a corset without an actual corset; the skirt hits mid-length. All of this works together to create a lovely shape—neither overly frou-frou, nor too simple. Of course, the design is an homage to American designer, Claire McCardell, who is best known for creating the American sportswear look and signature styles such as the popover dress—in essence, practical and wearable clothing that was (and remains) extraordinarily elegant. That practicality translates into this modern design, with every detail, from the shapely shoulders to the utilitarian pockets.
It goes without saying (but I am going to say it anyway) that this dress is unbelievably wearable. The level of detail in the pleats, pin-tucks and pin-hooks makes for a dress that is interesting to look at, flattering, and elevated. But it's also effortless in that you don't need a ton of accoutrements to make an outfit. The dress speaks for itself. Throw on a pair of flats and you've got yourself a perfect look for the office. Swap in a pair of heels and a clutch and you're dressed for a night out as it gets warmer. And depending on the shade you pick, you can wear it into the fall with boots and booties.
I have never gotten so many compliments on an outfit as I have recently while wearing this dress. I love the fact that I don't have to think twice when I wear it—I just know that it is both unique and flattering, and I can go about enjoying my life with it on. Now that's a dress worthy of a toast or two.
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