Best summer dresses to shop in 2020, according to experts - NBC News

---

Best summer dresses to shop in 2020, according to experts - NBC News Posted: 22 Jun 2020 02:33 PM PDT Related How to shop for summer dresses during coronavirus Go for the practical. "These times are not built for complicated fashion — seek out brands that have a consistent fit, silhouettes that flatter your body type and color palettes and prints that lift your spirits," says Kathryn Sukey, head of design at Draper James. "If you look good, you feel good and you can go out into the world to do good." Take a chance. Right now is the perfect moment to be experimental with your personal style, says Poshmark seller stylist, Allyn Wang, and anything that boosts your mood goes. "If you want to wear a maxi dress while watching Netflix, go for it. If you want to wear heels with a matching sweat suit to get the mail, do it," she says. "We'll be staying home more than usual, but that doesn't mean we can't have a little fun." Focus on what sparks joy. It's very important to buy items that will make you feel good and that you love, more so now than ever. "If you are going to spend money on clothes, the number one rule is to 'feel you' and be comfortable," says stylist and designer Paulina Castro. Picture it how you'll wear it. "Look for practical pieces that you can wear in many different ways and different occasions with items that you already own in your closet," says Castro. Go for transitional pieces. Castro recommends choosing pieces that you can wear from daytime to evening to help make life a bit easier — advice we could all use right now. Avoid buying items just because they're trendy. Instead, when you try clothes on, look for pieces, fabrics and colors that flatter your figure and accentuate your features. This way, you will get the most wear out of whatever it is you're investing in. Related Best summer dresses in 2020 Experts we consulted about summer dresses noted various trends that included tie-dye dresses, neon summer dresses, dresses with puff sleeves, denim and crochest options — and options especially comfortable for wearing at home. Tie-dye summer dresses From this time last year, Poshmark saw a 75-percent increase in orders and listings of women's tie-dye apparel. From a splash of bright colors that brighten moods to relaxing pastel hues, summer dresses are all about the tie-dye print this summer. 1. White Mark Women's Dye Maxi Dress Keep cool in this sleeveless maxi dress that comes in three tie-dye options. With a flutter neck detail, this comfortable dress can be dressed up for a party or dressed down for work. 2. Jinaki Afefe Kaftan Soak in the warm weather in this hand-dyed turquoise kaftan that can be worn as a dress or layered when it gets chillier. The lightweight piece is one size fits most — leaving you feeling breezy and making a statement. 3. Karen Kane Tie Dye Handkerchief Hem Dress Whether you have a weekend filled with errands or a busy day at work, this fluid jersey dress is an easy option. 4. Asos Satin Mini Smock Dress This bold tie-dye dress in green and gray. The relaxed-fit dress features a trapeze cut and tie-keyhole neckline that creates a slouchy-meets-sophisticated look. Related Neon summer dresses Sukey says she's been seeing a desire for "optimism, head-to-toe" be reflected in major pops of color. People aren't shying away from dresses that make a statement, and instead are rocking styles dripping in bold colors for an added boost of happiness, wherever they can get it. 5. Romwe Ruffle Sleeve Dress Make summer memories in this short tank dress with a round neckline and flirty ruffle detail at the sleeves. The loose A-line fit is both cool and comfortable while the vibrant color makes it pop. Let our news meet your inbox. The news and stories that matters, delivered weekday mornings. 6. Cushnie Twist-Front Dress This bright magenta dress sizzles with a statement — it sports a twisted knot front detail. The sophisticated midi dress features a spaghetti strap criss-cross back and side-slit, making it minimal and alluring. 7. Eloquii Belted Stretch Dress Rock sunshine with every step in Eloquii's glowing amber tea-length dress. From the wide ruffle hem and square neckline to the elbow-length sleeves and matching belt, this cotton dress should bring you joy. 8. Kasper Tie-Waist Shirt Dress The cheery pink shade gives a modern twist to this button-up shirt dress's classic silhouette. This sweet dress with matching tie sash is both timeless and polished. 9. Cushnie Leopard Print Wrap Slip Dress Looking for a sultry dress that will wow? This bright blue slip dress has a wrap silhouette, asymmetrical hem and a V-neck that celebrates the body. Related Summer dresses with puff sleeves Mini dresses with puff sleeves in eye-catching prints and colors are dominating summer 2020, according to Wang. "They're a little whimsical, a little 80s and a little extra, making them the perfect pick-me-up on a day when you need a bit of optimism," she says. 10. LoveShackFancy Puff Sleeve Dress This feminine pastel dress brings a nostalgic feel with delicate floral print, oversized puff sleeves and floral hem. The bow sash completes this maxi dress's sweet look. 11. C/Meo Puff Sleeve Mini Dress Step up the drama with this stand-out floral mini dress. The elbow-length puff sleeves and sweetheart neckline give this draped dress a bold silhouette. 12. Asos Puff Sleeve Polka Dot Dress This mini dress is all about the playful polka dots. A square neckline balances out the sweet puff sleeves while simple tie back detail finishes the bubbly look. Related Crochet dresses As people strive for comfort, one trend they're embracing is crochet dresses. Not only does this style allow them to play around with bright color palettes or stick to a monochromatic look, but it also can feel akin to loungewear. 13. Tobi Crochet Bodycon Dress Bright crochet patchwork details pop all over this form-fitting bodycon dress. The colorful squares pop against the white borders and give this dress a festive feel. 14. Asos Crochet Lace Midi Dress Fall in love with both the color and texture that the crochet detail gives this party dress. Worthy of any summer celebration, this on-trend style features an overlay for an illusion midi hemline. 15. Anthropologie Crochet Midi Dress Channel a vintage meets modern vibe with this midi crochet dress. The lined, sleeveless dress makes a statement with a flounce hem and form-fitting silhouette. 16. Milly Floral Crochet Dress Milly's crochet cocktail dress is an elevated look for a night out. The sophisticated cap-sleeve dress exudes sophistication with scalloped crochet knit flowers, keyhole back and banded waist details that accentuates the body. 17. Carmen Marc Valvo Sleeveless Crochet Dress A white loose crochet overlay sits atop a contrast lining, giving this sleeveless dress a flirty vibe. This sheath dress with boat neckline can be dressed down with a denim jacket or dressed up with strappy heels or chunky wedges. Related Denim summer dresses As many have traded in their jeans for sweatpants, denim has found a new home this season in dresses. From a dark wash take on the traditional wrap dress to denim shirt dresses that feature ruffles and dramatic sleeves, these stylish looks can be worn well into the fall, making them a lasting investment. 18. Asos Denim Shirt Dress This mid wash denim dress combines two hot summer dress styles: denim and puff sleeves. Plus, it has pockets — what more could you want in a chic look? 19. Draper James Chambray Faux Wrap Dress From the sweet ruffles at the hem to the flattering wrap silhouette, this cotton dress is timeless. The flutter sleeves add a playful touch for a polished-yet-casual summer staple. 20. Zara Pleated Denim Dress Make a statement in this light denim dress with bold sleeves and v-neckline. A metal zipper detail down the back gives casual contrast to the dramatic style. 21. White House Black Market Denim Dress This faux-wrap stand out gives the denim dress trend a more elevated feel for a special event. The flounce sleeves and seaming detail give this effortless look an elegant feel. Related House comfort summer dresses "For an easy transition out of pajamas into something that's arguably more comfortable and certainly cute," Friedman says shoppers are looking toward house dresses. These styles, which are inspired by nightgowns and T-shirts, are just as easy to wear as loungewear but with the added bonus of dainty prints or a matching tie at the waist. 22. Yidarton Short Sleeve Slit Maxi Dress Whether you're headed to a summer party or work meeting, you can stay comfortable-yet-put-together in this casual long dress. You'll appreciate the soft stretch fabric and ease that comes with this lightweight maxi style. 23. Milly Floral Print Dress Fall in love with the low-key floral print but stay for the effortless fit. The peplum hem and keyhole back are special touches that make this T-shirt dress both chic and playful. 24. Old Navy Linen Shirt Dress Throw on this diamond printed shirt dress and be prepared to handle whatever the day throws your way — in comfort. From the dolman sleeves to the pointed color, it's all about the little details that make this navy dress an easy win. 25. Amazon Essentials Short-Sleeve Swing Dress After months of rocking quarantine comfort, don't give up on easy ensembles just because you're ready for some fresh summer air. That's why this versatile scoop-neck dress is an essential for everyday life this season. Related More shopping guides and recommendations Catch up on the latest from NBC News Shopping guides and recommendations and download the NBC News app for full coverage of the coronavirus outbreak Lauren Levy Lauren Levy is a contributor with work published on The Knot, PopSugar, CafeMom, Mom.com, Bridal Guide and Care.com.

Understanding the dress codes of Orthodox Jewish women and their diverse interpretations - CNN Posted: 17 Jun 2020 04:34 AM PDT Written by Hannah Tindle, CNN Based on the true story of Deborah Feldman, a Jewish woman who left the Satmar community in Williamsburg, Brooklyn in search of a new life, the hit Netflix series "Unorthodox" has brought Hasidic culture -- and its female dress codes -- into mainstream focus. One of the most talked about aspects of the show is the clothing, which shapes lead character Esty's (played by Shira Haas) story from beginning to end. The show's costume designer Justine Seymour spent hours on meticulous research, including a week-long stint within the Satmar community in New York. "I consider one of the biggest gifts of my job to be that it is very creative, but also very educational," she said during a phone interview. "You do have to be sensitive, respectful, and informed when you are observing a very closed community," said Seymour, who is not Jewish. She said she discovered that the women she met during her research embraced designer brands for shoes, headscarves and handbags. "Kate Spade, Chanel, Ferragamo and Hermes were the stand-out designers," she said, that "add a bit of glamour to the conservative dress code." Whether scouring second-hand stores for silk scarves (she said she purchased over 100 for the show) or building faux-fur shtreimels (hats worn by married Hasidic men usually made from mink) from scratch, Seymour said she worked hard to ensure that each costume would adhere to Orthodox Jewish laws, but also celebrate the nuances of individual style. Esty on her wedding day in "Unorthodox." Credit: Anika Molnar/Netflix Orthodox dressing can often be perceived by outsiders as overly restrictive, and as leaving little room for individual freedom and self-expression. Feldman and the fictional character of Esty both struggled with the pressures put on them by their communities, which extended to their appearance, but all three of the Jewish women interviewed for this article felt that there's more freedom to explore one's personal style than people might assume -- particularly within less conservative households or branches -- and many devout women do play with fashion to reflect their personal taste, while staying within the religious dress codes they have chosen to follow. Orthodox Judaism encompasses many traditions and customs, with the Hasidim of Williamsburg being just one ultra-observant group. And while women living in this particular community tend to subscribe to more stringent rules for getting dressed, modern Orthodox followers, for example, choose to interpret some of the core principles differently. Specific style codes vary from community to community, with clothing often dictated by practicality or religious occasion -- Shabbat, Yom Tov (meaning holiday), weddings and bar mitzvahs -- as much as personal taste. But no matter where you are or whatever the occasion, in the Orthodox Jewish world, what to wear is governed by the concept of modesty, called tzniut in Hebrew and tznius in Yiddish. From Tel Aviv to Massachusetts, it is with tznius in mind that clothing is chosen. Tamara Fulton, a fashion stylist and lifestyle editor, who is married to an Orthodox rabbi and lives in London, explained: "There are lots of different Jewish communities all over the world with much diversity yet the underlying principles they share are the same. Tznius is the word in Judaism that is slightly mistranslated to mean simply 'modesty,' but it's not just about modest dressing. Tznius applies to both men and women, and is based upon the concept of humility. It's really about how you are in the world, and how you carry yourself in a reserved but dignified manner," said Fulton. This usually means the following for Orthodox women: trousers are not worn, and skirts and dresses must fall below the knee, including when sitting; arms are covered to the elbow, and necklines are high-cut. Often clothing is altered -- with slits in skirts sewn up and false necklines added. Layering is also often used to create final looks. The scene from "Unorthodox" when Esty's hair is shaved. Credit: Anika Molnar/Netflix Once married, covering your hair is another one of the key principles of tznius. Not all women will shave their real hair, as Esty does during one of the most memorable scenes of "Unorthodox" (her hair is in fact shaved for her). But many observant women will either wear a scarf or a sheitel, the Yiddish word for wig. A Jewish teacher who taught in Israel in a girls' seminary and also lived in the Haredi, or ultra-Orthodox, community in Manchester in the north of England agreed to be interviewed for this article, but asked not to be named for reasons of modesty. She wears a sheitel herself and explained that they can often be used as an accessory or as a way to change up your look. Over the phone she said: "One (woman) I know has a selection of all different color sheitels in different styles. Because she says: 'I'm covering my head and I'm thinking of a sheitel as a hat. So if I want to be blonde one day and brunette another, why shouldn't I be?'" The style of sheitel is also dependent on the community. For example, some Hasidic women wear shorter wigs with a hat on top, so there is no doubt they are wearing a head covering. Sheitels are made from both human and synthetic hair. When she was living in Manchester, the teacher always preferred to wear her wig made from real hair for special occasions. "I would have real hair for Shabbat, and then synthetic for every day," she said. Wearing gifted jewelry on Shabbat or special occasions is also common. "It is believed that married women should be given beautiful jewelry," said the teacher. "It might be modest, but it would be of high quality." Seymour noted that jewelry was an important component when assembling the costumes for "Unorthodox." She remembered having to dress around 60 women for Esty and her husband Yanky's wedding scene, all in replica diamonds and pearls. Later in this scene, the groom presents his new bride with a pair of latticed diamond earrings. "They are very close to the earrings Deborah Feldman was given in reality," she said. When is comes to color, like with other cultures and religions, different colors take on different meanings, but black isn't the only color worn by Hasidic women. "When I lived in Israel, we hardly wore black," said the teacher. "It was very bright colors. But not red -- never red! As this color is not seen as modest. (In Hasidic communities) women will tend to wear navy, bottle green, browns and gray." "For all women, the clothes are an expression of yourself. The idea is to look smart, but not to draw too much attention to yourself," she explained. A look from the Erdem show at London Fashion Week in February. Credit: Stuart Wilson/BFC/Getty Images Orthodox women choose to buy clothing from a variety of different places -- from Jewish-owned clothing stores within their community to other non-Jewish shops or shopping centers. For Fulton, there are several go-to stores that often sell pieces that work for her. "I prefer to wear clothes that are designed to be worn as they are, rather than layering or altering for modesty," she said. "H&M and Zara are great for this." She also noted that many high fashion designers have been producing collections that offer options for women who choose to dress modestly. "It's really interesting to see designers like Valentino, Erdem, and McQueen, for example, produce styles that just happen to be appropriate for women who might want to dress in a more modest way. I'm a big fan of the whole 1970s revival, too, with Laura Ashley-inspired designs and brands such as The Vampire's Wife." Another brand that has become popular with both observant and secular women alike is Batsheva. The 2018 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund winning brand is known for its ruffled, prairie-style dresses. Established by native New Yorker Batsheva Hay, the foundations of her namesake label are centered around her own personal history and culture. Her husband, photographer Alexei Hay, began following Orthodox practices just before they started dating. At their wedding, Batsheva -- who grew up in a secular Jewish family and who is not ultra-observant of Jewish dress codes -- said men and women were separated, which is traditional, and Hay wore her mother's wedding dress, made from Mexican lace and suitable for tznius. Alexei and Batsheva Hay on their wedding day. Credit: Courtesy of Batsheva Hay With no formal fashion design training, Hay -- a former lawyer -- first started making clothes for herself while at home raising young children. She launched her brand in 2016. "When I was starting Batsheva, I was finding that so many of the references that I was interested in were retro or old-fashioned," she said over the phone. "Also in my (neighborhood), and in Brooklyn which is a quick subway ride away from me, I was seeing Orthodox women who dressed similarly to this." Hay, who said she is compelled by working within specific, pre-laid rules, but interpreting them anew. In this way, she has developed a style that is modest but also distinctive and fun. A look from the Batsheva Spring-Summer 2020 collection presented at New York Fashion Week in September 2019 Credit: Victor Virgile/Gamma-Rapho/Getty Images "The goal for Orthodox Jews is not an abandonment of beauty," she said. "It's supposed to be working within that to still look beautiful." Seymour echoed this sentiment: "With the costumes in 'Unorthodox,' I wanted to honor women all over the world who want to look beautiful without breaking the codes of modesty." She said she was struck by the pride many of the woman in the Satmar community took in dressing well. "If the show can inspire a little bit more glamour and beauty, and pride in the way (all women) dress, I would be overjoyed."

You are subscribed to email updates from "dresses for women" - Google News. To stop receiving these emails, you may unsubscribe now.	Email delivery powered by Google
Google, 1600 Amphitheatre Parkway, Mountain View, CA 94043, United States