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| Burberry London Westland Trench | c/o Chadwicks of Boston Suiting Separates Sheath | Banana Republic Haircalf Bow Glove in Leopard | Madewell Transport Tote (also here) | Michael Kors ‘Runway’ Chronograph Watch | Kate Spade Idiom Heart of Gold Bangle (also here and here) | Massimo Dutti Nappa Leather Court Shoe (similar) |
Some of you may remember that I started this blog to address mounting frustration with the state of my starter work wardrobe, which is by no means a unique struggle among the newly graduated. Over the years, the focus of this blog shifted to my more whimsical pursuits but I still encounter questions from readers about where to find workwear that’s affordable yet premium in quality.
When my baby cousin graduated from college this spring, I decided to browse for suiting separates for her because she is petite (and if there’s one thing I’ve become adept at through blogging, it is shopping for petite women). While I normally avoid gifting clothes (would not recommend; hurt feelings occasionally ensued), she and I have a relationship that can weather a shopping hiccup.
Chadwicks of Boston had, around that time, reached out to me to review their apparel and I found their price points very reasonable and the quality of the garments themselves fair. My favorite piece from their spring collection was this Suiting Separates Sheath, which is available in ten colors and only retails for $39.99 (some colors are now half off).
Regular sizes run 4-18 and extended sizes are available for petite (2P-16P), tall (6T-18T), and plus (16W-26W). Sizing is comparable to mass retailers like J. Crew and Ann Taylor (or approximately half a size larger than the norm) so those on extreme ends of the size spectrum will probably not have much luck here.
The dress is comfortable, cut flatteringly, and isn’t particularly wrinkle-prone. With the right accessories, the dress can easily be transformed from a work staple to a date night dress.
I’ll be reviewing a few other sheath dresses from other retailers in the coming months but this one is a clear winner if you are looking for something basic.
