I first saw this dress a few months ago on Instagram, quite literally hot-off-the-runway, and knew I had to make it mine.
It turns out, quite a few people had the same idea, and it sold out in days. After a short period of mourning, I discovered that Amanda Laird Cherry was bringing it back in different prints and patterns, and I leaped at the chance. So, allow me to introduce you to their Mathlo dress.
Amanda Laird Cherry is arguably one of the most established South African designers, and one I have loved for years – as you can see here and here. So, what do I love about her designs? Clean lines, you can expect beautiful dresses that can be dressed up or down in a selection of key styles that return each season – I particularly love the Mia and Morgan.
Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing three summer essentials from their latest collection, that I feel no wardrobe will be complete without. And, where better to start than with a light, white shirt dress? While it was truly a case of love-at-first-sight for me, there are definitely a few things that make me go starry eyed when it comes to this dress. Firstly – the length. I’m 1.68m tall, and it hits perfectly mid-calf. Perfect for twirling and swishing as you walk, and pretending you’re on your way to a garden party, glass of bubbly and cake at the ready. Or, at least that’s what I like to think of when I wear it.
Secondly, the sleeves. I’ll admit that my upper arms are not…ahem…my favourite – so I like that they are tucked away beneath a riot of beautiful floral embroidery. Lastly, for now, at least – the fabric. It’s light and floaty – and, cool for summer – but, still retains enough shape, together with the belt, to be flattering and not slouchy.
If you’re keen to add one to your wardrobe too, you can buy it online through the links below, or pop into your closest branch of The Space, if you’d like to try it on in person, and see additional prints and patterns:
Checked print in plus sizes | Orange print in straight sizes | Blue and white in straight sizes
A note on sizing: I sized up – wearing a 42 here – because I knew the button front could “gape” over the bust, and, as the fabric has no stretch at all, am very happy with my decision. If you are between two sizes or quite full in the bust area, I’d suggest doing the same.
The Mathlo dress details for R995 (sizes 32-42) and R1 095 (sizes 44 & 46) – I’m wearing a size 42.
With thanks to the team at Amanda Laird Cherry for sponsoring this post.
Belinda Mountain
January 9, 2018These are gorgeous!