Second Opinion

[STEVIE]

The snap I have posted here is a mixture of out and about, personal story with a hint of freestyle thrown in.
The jury is out as to whether or not I will buy this dress and I would appreciate any thoughts or comments.
I would stress that I know it needs different footwear and accessories.
Also, let's also call it a thought experiment because the final decision rests with me alone.
After all, my hard earned will pay for it.

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For a bit more info, the photo was taken in the shop when I tried it on.
The person selling it said it looked "great", but she wants my money.
Fact is if anyone thinks that it is simply awful, say so, I won't be hurt or definitely dissuaded either!
Steve.

[JeffB1959]

Well, it IS a busy design, perhaps too busy for my taste, heck, I wouldn’t even know what to call that pattern. I’m not a fan of the sleeves either, too voluminous, if the dress had short sleeves, it might be more tolerable. Lastly, I’ve never liked wrap belts (don’t know what else to call it), give me one with a buckle, or a cinched waist instead. All things considered, I don’t like that dress, not even a little, in my opinion, invest in something else.

[Barleymower]

Not unlike this dress

Screenshot_20250325_200322_Chrome.jpg

Has a summery feel to it. With that in mind wear it in the summer with a hat or a Berret and some sandels?

[STEVIE]

Well, it IS a busy design, perhaps too busy for my taste, heck, I wouldn’t even know what to call that pattern. I’m not a fan of the sleeves either, too voluminous, if the dress had short sleeves, it might be more tolerable. Lastly, I’ve never liked wrap belts (don’t know what else to call it), give me one with a buckle, or a cinched waist instead. All things considered, I don’t like that dress, not even a little, in my opinion, invest in something else.

Well said Jeff, and that is exactly what I meant.
Too often we see or hear platitudes, patently shallow and insincere.
Your comments are duly noted and thanks.
Steve.

[crfriend]

I had precisely the same reaction, Stevie: "Busy". I'm not sure if that's a rig I'd wear, but if you feel happy with it, go for the gusto!

Other than the pattern, it looks like it'd be a nice dress.

[Uncle Al]

I agree with the other members: Not For You
It's WAY to busy, really draws the eye to what you're wearing.

Just my $.02 worth

Uncle Al

[crfriend]

Interestingly, the original "first impression" I got of the rig reminded me of the naval "dazzle camouflage" of the WWI and WWII era where ships were painted with bizarre geometrical shapes designed to fool the eye of the observer into thinking a ship was something else. At least one capital ship had a full-sized destroyer in silhouette on its side. Very, very "busy". But, I suppose if you're trying to hide, it's a decent tactic!

[Mouse]

I think the pattern is too big for the dress, be fine for a large pair of curtains. My first impression was, you were wearing a beach robe. Also, I hate buttons down the front of a dress. Personal reason, I know, but it is mine.

Forget the lady in the shop, the only reason you should buy this dress, is if Susie liked you in it.

[Faldaguy]

The fact that it is busy & 'different' may be the reason it works for a man because it clearly is picking one's own style and not intended to imitate typical 'female' styles. For that, and because the colors work for your skin/hair tones, I think if you feel good in it; and wish to bring attention to men wearing dresses, it is a viable option. I think you carry it off as well as one can.

The presentation is clearly more the creative artist, Lancome crossed with bohemian/hippie influences than any classic design -- it makes me think of ripped jeans -- to me, they simply look in need of replacement; but others deem them high fashion and get paid extra for it.

[STEVIE]

Not unlike this dress

Thanks guys, however, there is another consideration.
"Not unlike"?
Same dress, different placing of the pattern on the garment!
Here's a perfect example of the advantage of bricks and mortar shopping.
Order from the illustration and receive what I am "modelling".
Pay your money, take your chance and check the return policy!
Steve
More evidence for my jury to deliberate on!

[Barleymower]

"Not unlike"?

Stevie i had a reason for saying "not unlike". Same material yes, arranged differently yes. The one i found and posted was quite cheap. I feared you googling the image, finding the dress seeing how cheap it was and thinking BM is saying i like cheap dresses.

Back to the dress, curtains? Busy? Beach robe? Consider yourself slated! I see it differently. Its loud for sure and why not? Dont wear it with pattened tights then. If you like it and it makes you feel good, that's enough. It might just need turning down with some plain accessories.

[STEVIE]

I feared you googling the image, finding the dress seeing how cheap it was and thinking BM is saying i like cheap dresses.

Well BM, cut to the chase, I do for certain situations, like a casual throw on for summer such as this.
The one I have on retails from the shop at £39, the one I wore in London £16 and my "Sunday" school dress +£100.
Horses for courses as the saying goes, but I don't think that deeply about price comparison.
Steve.

[Jim]

I like it, but then I'm an odd one.

[Susie]

First impression? - Mrs White in the kitchen with the candlestick.

I think the background doesn't allow us to see the dress properly as you are blending in.

It is completely different from your usual and will take some getting used to if you do decide to buy.

Would I buy it for myself - no.

Will I walk down the street with you wearing it - of course.

[STEVIE]

I like it, but then I'm an odd one.

Yup Jim, me too, I rather like being odd.
This dress has lost ground for me, not because of the comments, but the two pictures.
Had it been the one in the online shot that Barleymower posted, this thread might never have appeared.
I'm very glad to say that Susie would have seen it first hand and me modelling it.
Her help and advice has been invaluable, but no categorical verdict as yet.
Thank to all who have contributed and watch this space!
Steve.