Happy Monday, gang! If it’s summer then it’s time to slip into a summer dress. Every year, I’m on the hunt for a comfy, casual yet chic dress. Ann Taylor is a brand that delivers a great selection of dresses all summer long. So today, Kelly and I are together to share The Perfect Summer Dress for Regular and Petite.
It’s the beginning of a new week. I spent the weekend working on my basement that needed some TLC and I have to admit the project is coming along nicely. I’m an organization nut so whenever a room (including the basement) starts to get out of control it’s time to roll my sleeves up and get to work. My home is much like my closet and needs to work for me, not against me. But how in the world do I end up with so much stuff? I swear piles just multiply on their own…
Today's feature is a dress in petite and regular sizes
The outfits are shoppable via a text and image widget
Kelly and I chose to style a simple striped ruffle-tiered flare dress that comes in Petites and Regular. The dress comes with a self-tie belt that Kelly styled beautifully. Yours truly has a love affair with belts so I chose a navy raffia belt from J. McLaughlin that adds a little extra something.
Beth’s Outfit: Dress | Shoes | Belt | Handbag
Kelly’s Outfit: Petite Dress | Similar Shoes | Wooden Clutch
Since it’s summer it’s time to dust off straw and wicker handbags that are perfect to carry this time of year. Nothing screams summer more than a wicker handbag, and I’m here for it! My raffia tote is from Loft and comes with a crossbody strap.
Beth’s Outfit: Dress | Shoes | Belt | Handbag
Kelly’s Outfit: Petite Dress | Similar Shoes | Wooden Clutch
Acrylic sandals with a cork sole from Schutz are a great neutral shoe that goes with everything. When in doubt when it comes to footwear opt for a neutral or nude shoe. It works every time.
Beth’s Outfit: Dress | Shoes | Belt | Handbag
Kelly’s Outfit: Petite Dress | Similar Shoes | Wooden Clutch
This dress is perfect for summer; the sheer fabric is as light as air, making it incredibly comfortable. The dress is lined with light cotton. The outer rayon-blend fabric has a light crinkle to it, and the tiered skirt with the ruffle bottom is so light and feminine.
Beth’s Outfit: Dress | Shoes | Belt | Handbag
Kelly’s Outfit: Petite Dress | Similar Shoes | Wooden Clutch
As Beth mentioned, I chose to style this dress dress with the self tie buckle belt. The buckle is tortoise shell, matching the buttons, which is a nice touch. To keep a smooth silhouette, I used Hollywood Fashion Tape to secure the end of the fabric belt to itself. If you haven’t used fashion tape, I highly recommend you get some to keep around, it works great for securing belt ends and gaping between buttons on shirts.
Beth’s Outfit: Dress | Shoes | Belt | Handbag
Kelly’s Outfit: Petite Dress | Similar Shoes | Wooden Clutch
My shoes are old, from Madewell, but the have a similar heeled sandal, the Kiera Lugsole Sandal. Instead of reaching for my wicker or raffia bag, I went with The Colette Wooden Clutch from J.McLaughlin. I am a big fan of J.McLaughlin’s wooden handbags; they are beautifully made. The one I have today is still available and is on sale, for a whopping $100 off!
Beth’s Outfit: Dress | Shoes | Belt | Handbag
Kelly’s Outfit: Petite Dress | Similar Shoes | Wooden Clutch
Beth’s Outfit: Dress | Shoes | Belt | Handbag
Kelly’s Outfit: Petite Dress | Similar Shoes | Wooden Clutch
Beth’s Outfit: Dress | Shoes | Belt | Handbag
Kelly’s Outfit: Petite Dress | Similar Shoes | Wooden Clutch
Yesterday, I shared The Ultimate Summer Lookbook. Click the title or image below to read the article.
is the Founder and CEO of Style at a Certain Age. She writes Sundays-Fridays on all topics ranging from fashion, health, wellness, home design and more.
She’s 65, 5’8, and size 8.
The blue belt really adds a nice pop to the dress.
Cannot wait to read your blog every morning. Love your style and love that you have your hair short again. Blessings to you and your family.
I’ve been collecting belts since 2009 when my stylist told me to wear belts whenever possible (even though I don’t have a small waist) to help accessorize my outfits! I really like how they look with beautiful belts ❤️ Both of your dresses look smashing with the belts!!😀
Wow! That wicker bag looks absolutely beautiful with the belt that you chose for your summer dress. I love it!
You both wear it well!
Thank you, Carolina Girl! xo Kelly
Love both stylings, ladies. Bravo!
Thanks so much, Kim! xo Kelly
HI Beth and Kelly
June 5, 2023
kelly, your hair and make up looks super smooth and beutiful, also love your hair style.
Beth your dress looks very nice on you.
prefer your hair a little longer but both styles look very pretty on you.
thank you
Thank you, Gloria! xo Kelly