While Reformation is best known for making flirty sundresses and slinky dresses for wedding guests, in the last year I’ve bought mostly knitwear from the brand. Ref’s knits have that elusive insouciant quality to them–achieved by balancing classic details with a more contemporary cut (i.e., relaxed but not shapeless).
The Ida Cashmere Sleeveless Sweater Dress deviates from that winning formula by mashing up soft knits and the brand’s signature minimalist dresses. The design brushes against the edge of conventional and wholly unremarkable, but is saved by a handful of thoughtful details: the ribbed knit provides textural interest; the side slits and fitted silhouette are low-key ways to add intrigue to an otherwise demure dress; and the elegant mock-turtle neckline obviates the need to accessorize.
The lightweight, breathable cashmere, coupled with the lack of sleeves, enables this dress to be worn comfortably even in warmer months. And the dress’s lack of frilly details makes it easy to dress up (or down): for fall, wear it with an oversized blazer and knee-high boots; or put on your most dangerous pair of skyscraper heels and grab a colorful clutch for a dinner date.
The Ida is designed to be fitted throughout, so take your normal size in this style (the size chart can be relied on). While Reformation’s recycled cashmere is very soft and comfortable to wear, it’s on the thin side so will show bumps and folds easily.
Second cut has arrived for Reformation’s summer sale: most styles are now up to 50% off, including the Ida Cashmere Sleeveless Sweater Dress in two colorways. Find my sale picks here.
You can find the Reformation Ida Dress at Anthropologie, eBay, Farfetch, Luisaviaroma, Poshmark, Reformation, and Saks Fifth Avenue.
