Vintage Inspired Monochrome With Taking Shape*

Recently I was browsing the Taking Shape website, eyeing up the new collections and taking a peek at the sale items when an outfit came together into my head around the dress I had my eye on.

Dress, Coat, Petticoat, Tights

I snapped up the petticoat (currently £15 down from £65) and tights, and Taking Shape very kindly sent me the dress and coat to complete the outfit.

When I first laid eyes on the Carnival Rose dress I was skimming the Taking Shape page and the flash of black and white caught my eye. In that split second it almost reminded me of the cover of The Beatles' album Revolver. I know, ridiculous, but that's what registered in my sleepy brain and I've been smitten by the dress ever since. I feel so lucky to have been given the chance to try this dress and it most certainly doesn't disappoint.

This vintage inspired dress has a flared skirt that sits a fair bit below the knee (I'm 5'4") and the waist hits exactly in the right place for me. It's not too high-waisted so there are no problems for ladies who are larger in the chest department. The contrast of the monochrome and clash of stripes and florals makes the print really pop and the piping along the panels of this dress fit and flatter in all the right places.

I opted for my usual size in this dress but as you can see I may benefit from sizing down. There's a bit of gaping in the top and I prefer a slightly more fitted look around the chest and waist.

The Lavish Coat is a thing of utter beauty. The modern velour feels so luxurious and compliments the sateen dress perfectly. There are so many things about this coat. The asymmetric hem, the puffball collar with the scarf intertwined throughout and the single button make it truly special.

I sized up as I do have very wide upper arms but I would say this coat is perhaps a little generous so getting my regular size would have sufficed as I doubt I'll be layering much under this. It's not that kind of coat. It's very much an "occasion" piece for this season however I can see it getting much more use when the evenings turn a little warmer.

I have had so many compliments on this outfit and it really does make me feel glam! Despite choosing to let the dress speak for itself, after seeing these photos I think I need a nice vintage necklace to fill the space and bring it all together.

I can't wait to try this outfit in the warmer weather with bare legs and bigger petticoat. I think it'll look fabulous!

Both the dress and the coat are currently reduced on the Taking Shape website. Head over there to check out their daily Glitzmas offers.



*The Lavish coat and Carnival Rose dress were kindly gifted but all opinions are my own.