Embracing Summer Brights, Prints, etc.

With the enthusiasm for mini-dresses comes the risk of the unintended crotch shot. I have a heightened awareness of such things due to the frequency with which I wear mini-dresses: Spandex bike shorts became my best defense against the unintended naughty bit flash long ago. A dress that circumvents the crotch shot and/or risk thereof is also a dress that’s not short enough for my taste.

What? I fully intend on toeing the slut line until I no longer feel comfortable in hemlines that fail the middle school arms-by-the-side test. I’m also from a state that takes the notion of class and turns it on its head. Viva la armpit.

Where was I?

Oh riiiiiiiiiiight. The mini-dress.

My first thought when I saw this particular mini at Second Time Around last week was what the EFF is going on with the hem? I only tried it on out of sheer curiosity: The ridiculous elastic bubble ruffle adorning the bottom was simply too intriguing to pass up.

Would an elastic hem make the dress stay in place? Could it adequately prevent the unintended crotch shot? Might it negate the need for spandex bike shorts altogether?

Yes, yes and YES.

In order to fully comprehend the brilliance that is the elastic hem, one must trust in its powers and don it sans spandex. I did this the other night. The dress stayed in place for the duration of the evening, which included a ten minute walk to the bar in windy conditions. No risk of crotch shots, no bike shorts required. DIG IT.

Mmkay, let’s talk brand and cost. The elastic hemmed mini hails from audrey 3+1 – a relatively cheapie (also possibly defunct) line whose dresses retail for around $38.99. What’d I pay at STA?

Under $20. Niiiice. I initially paired the dress with only a Zachary’s Smile belt (five buckaroos, Attic Sale). Then, I decided to dress outside the box and add some crazy. It’s summer, and I’ve been in neutrals for far too long.

I KNEW the Tibi Jacket was a good move!

Colors! Prints! Eek!

P.S. Those wedges are amazing and perilous and L.A.M.B. Bought ages ago at Burlington Coat Factory. Can’t walk in them for shit. Love them regardless. Close-up to follow.