Vibrant colors dominated the S/S 2022 runway, with kelly green, bubblegum pink, bright tangerine, and Very Peri now making their way to retail stores. But it is light blue tints that I can’t get enough of this spring, be it cornflower blue, baby blue, or powder blue.
If you are as taken with this color as I am, you might enjoy the Free People Ain’t She A Beaut Midi Dress in “Hot Spring Blue.” This is a piece full of drama, with exaggerated puff sleeves, a bold square neckline, a ruched front bodice, and a longer hemline (midi length on the model and full length on 5’2 me). But if you don’t like attention from toddlers, stay far far away from this dress (I was mauled by several adorable toddlers when walking around in this dress…).
Some things to consider before you take the plunge, as the fit isn’t particularly petite friendly: the square neckline is a touch too wide, resulting in the puff sleeves constantly slipping off my shoulders; the woven material (100% cotton) doesn’t have stretch so you’ll have to undo ALL the buttons in the back to get into it, and then painstakingly button yourself up (definitely seek help with the buttoning); and the fit is somewhat small to size, even for Free People, relative to the longer length and exaggerated sleeves, so size up if you are fuller around the torso.
The price is pretty friendly, though, at $118. And the 100% cotton material feels substantial (but does require a thorough steam out of the bag). I also like the deep on-seam pockets and the modal lining.
Buy the Free People Ain’t She A Beaut Midi Dress at Amazon, Free People, Nordstrom, Revolve, and Shopbop.
