Return Of The Shift Dress
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Mad Men may be the only thing in my life that is immune to my commitment issues. Especially during this last season, I’ve had to continually defend my ’til-death-do-us-part relationship with the television show, and I will do so as long as the Draper drama is on. Even if the quality of the storyline takes a turn for the worst, the show can always count on me as a viewer because of their amazing fashion and costume choices.
This past season has allowed the rise of two fashion icons, Jessica Paré and young Kiernan Shipka. As the era of Mad Men slowly shift decades from the ’60s to the ’70s, these actresses’ wardrobes reflect the change in time and fashions. A staple for both of the fashionable characters is the shift dress. It just so happens that when I pry my eyes off of the TV and look around, I see that the shift dress has become the staple in the closets of many 2012 fashionistas as well.
The shift dress refers to the cut of a dress that is straight from shoulder to bottom hem. Next to the ever present a-line cut, the shift dress shape may be the easiest type of dress to pull off. Because of the straight cut, we no longer have to worry about the post-dinner bloat that is so evident in the popular bodycon dresses. Just because the shift dress doesn’t have a body hugging fit doesn’t mean you have to skip out on the sex appeal factor—many mini-dresses have the shift dress shape allowing you to show off a lot of leg. This may be the most versatile style of dress there is, appropriate for both a nice summer brunch as well as a night out. So, take a page out of the Draper women’s book and get this 60′s inspired look.
For a summer daytime shift dress check out this cream Pixie Lott for Lipsy mini-dress. Its lightweight feel is perfect for this season, and its short cut allows your to show off your freshly bronzed legs.
This French Connection frock is a perfect option for a night-time appropriate shift dress. For those who love Mad Men as much as I do, this dress is a great contemporary take on Megan’s dress in the famous “Zou Bisou Bisou” scene. The beading around the collar adds a touch of glam without sacrificing the elegance.
