I’ve collected jersey dresses for Lauren Ralph Lauren for a while now, all purchased in the USA, where the brand is readily available. From work dresses to cocktail dresses and evening gowns, the collection seems to grow each season. These are body-con dresses for those who can’t really wear body-con, they look as if they’d be very fitted but they work because of the clever construction.
It’s taken a while for the brand to make its way here, and even now it’s hard to find, with House of Fraser and John Lewis (smaller range) beginning to stock the collection.
What makes these dresses so perfect, whether you buy them for day or evening, is both the design and the fabric. Always designed to flatter a curvy figure, most of the dresses have ruching usually at the side over your front and flattering necklines. I don’t tend to look at any of the dresses not made in their signature jersey, which is soft, flattering, fluid, non crushable and washable for the most case (although always check the label).
If you’re looking for a dress for after dark there’s a really good selection online at House of Fraser but be warned. They’re not usually stocked in huge quantities so if you find something you love snap it up.
The jersey is body skimming so you need to be very careful what you wear underneath - who wants to spoil a beautiful dress with lines? Also they’re quite stretchy so you may want to try a size down from your normal size for a flattering, figure hugging fit.
With regards to length, I have found, as I have to have all of my dresses shortened, that any decent alterations person should be able to do it for you. Don’t accept a slightly longer length because you can’t be bothered to make it perfect. The dress will fit. The length is very important or you can look frumpy (as in any dress).
Wear your Lauren Ralph Lauren jersey dress with the highest heels you can walk in and modern accessories. Expect to be noticed.