Meet the nap dress, an ultra-comfortable WFH staple we're obsessed with

Meet the nap dress, an ultra-comfortable WFH staple we're obsessed with - CNN

Meet the nap dress, an ultra-comfortable WFH staple we're obsessed with - CNN
20 Dresses to Parade Around In on Easter Sunday - Vogue
Rutherford High continues collecting prom dresses and suits for students - WMBB - mypanhandle.com
20 Best Wedding Reception Dresses for Any Bride in 2021 - Glamour
People are hilariously roasting Target's line of prairie dresses - Upworthy

Meet the nap dress, an ultra-comfortable WFH staple we're obsessed with - CNN

Posted: 25 Mar 2021 11:25 AM PDT

(CNN) —

Easy, breezy and totally comfortable. The Nap Dress, trademarked by lifestyle brand Hill House, is just one of the latest iterations of house dresses. And while house dresses have been around for decades and potentially even centuries (the style is said to have originated from a Victorian gown), the romantic garment is experiencing quite the renaissance.

Nap dresses are "loose-fitting, flowy and feminine" says Amanda Sanders, a lifestyle expert and stylist to celebs like Gwyneth Paltrow, Chris Rock and Jennifer Coolidge. Oftentimes the only fitted part of the dress is around the bust, and other key features include "heavy smocking, over-exaggerated puff sleeves and a typically long, slightly pleated skirt." While nap dresses may be comfortable enough to sleep in, their purpose goes far beyond that of a nightgown. The brilliance of the nap dress and similar house dresses are that they're generally dressy enough to wear to the office, comfortable enough for running errands and romantic enough for a weekend date.

Sanders notes that you're likely to see nap dresses even more as we head into warmer weather and as we emerge from quarantine with the idea that perhaps we don't have to sacrifice comfort to look good. Ahead, we've rounded up a range of top-rated or tried-and-true nap dresses (as well as other super-comfy dresses) that check all our boxes when it comes to comfort, versatility and of course — style.

Hill House The Ellie Nap Dress ($125; hillhousehome.com)

PHOTO: Hill House

Hill House The Ellie Nap Dress

Let's begin with The Ellie Nap Dress by Hill House, the brand that started the trend. Available in nine colors and up to size 2X, this dress seriously couldn't get more perfect. An A-line variant of the brand's Nap Dress, this features elasticated smocking, ruffled shoulders and a tiered midi skirt that will feel comfortable to lounge around in, yet sophisticated enough to pair with heels and head to dinner.

One reviewer writes, "Magical, beautiful, top-notch quality, real French seams, stunning patterns and looks phenomenal and flattering on. There is no end to compliments on this nap dress."

Free People Oasis Midi Dress ($118; freepeople.com)

PHOTO: Free People

Free People Oasis Midi Dress

Free People is one of the brands Sanders immediately associates with the nap dress style, and for good reason. The boho-style brand creates tons of dresses that are breezy, loose and absolutely adorable, and the Oasis Midi Dress is no exception. This cotton option has the classic smocked bodice along with the puffy sleeves, while the square neckline really gives off that popular cottagecore aesthetic.

Writes one reviewer, "Got this dress while I was pregnant as I wanted clothing that I could wear post-pregnancy. This is literally one of the most comfortable dresses I own — the sleeves are not too billowy, the length on my 5'2" petite frame is not overwhelming and the neckline is perfection!"

Wilfred Rengo Dress ($168; artizia.com)

PHOTO: Aritzia

Wilfred Rengo Dress

If you love a little volume in your dress but prefer a neutral color, this top-rated option from Aritzia delivers on exactly that. With a dramatic, tiered skirt and only slightly puffy sleeves, this is the perfect dress to throw on for any range of activities. No zippers, laces, or fuss. Made from 100% cotton and available in both black and white, we'd imagine this is one dress you could definitely have in both colors and not get sick of.

One reviewer writes, "I love this dress, light enough for summer but a nice medium-thick cotton fabric. You could dress it down for a casual picnic or dress it up for the evening!"

Sleeper Atlanta Linen Dress ($320; sleeper.com)

PHOTO: Sleeper

Sleeper Atlanta Linen Dress

Hoping to avoid looking like you're wearing nightgown? Sanders says that many nap dresses can be "underwhelming in color and pattern," and that she would suggest opting for brighter colors. This orange option from Sleeper, made from super-soft linen, is eye-catching yet classic and perfect for strutting around in all summer.

While it's definitely on the pricier side, all of Sleeper's products are absurdly high-quality and super versatile — this particular dress being one of the brand's bestsellers. Lounging around the house? A beach weekend? Weekend brunch or a date at the park? Check, check, check.

H&M Smock-Detail Dress ($24.99; hm.com)

PHOTO: H&M

H&M Smock-Detail Dress

Another bright yet classic color option, this top-rated lilac dress comes in the perfect spring shade. The long sleeves offset the shorter length of the dress, and the ruffles take the simple structure of the dress to a wonderfully romantic place.

Free People Mockingbird Maxi Dress ($148; freepeople.com)

PHOTO: Free People

Free People Mockingbird Maxi Dress

"If I were to style somebody in a nap dress, I'd look for something in white eyelet," says Sanders. This option from Free People mixes eyelet lace and cotton tiers for that cottagecore drama, while the V-neck silhouette helps to elongate even the most petite ladies.

One reviewer writes that this dress is "the perfect fit, hits at all the right places, and… not too long as I'm only 5'2"." The exposed back and pleating throughout makes it a bit of a dressier option, and reviewers say they've worn this dress at all sorts of events from weddings to day trips.

A New Day Women's Sleeveless Smocked Waist Dress ($27.99; target.com)

PHOTO: Target

A New Day Women's Sleeveless Smocked Waist Dress

With smocking along the waist and sizes up to a 2XL, this is one of those nap dresses that seem too easy to pass up. There's a variety of colors and patterns to choose from, and it's absolutely stylish enough to wear outdoors and even paired with a belt.

Reviewers adore it, with one writing, "This maxi dress is so perfect! I love that it cinches in at the waistline. It really lays nice on the body. There are also pockets and who does not love those?!? It is very lightweight so it is perfect for spring and summer! Great for a resort or a dinner date."

Ivy City Co Tea Party Dress ($158; ivycityco.com)

PHOTO: ivy City Co

ivy City Co Tea Party Dress

If you could bundle romance into a dress, it'd probably look something like this option from Ivy City Co, a woman-owned business based out of Utah. We were initially worried about the volume and length for petite women, but that all melted away for one of our petite reviewers when she tried it on. The dress fit like a glove, almost as if it were made just for her. Lots of Ivy City Co. dresses (including this one) are available in mini and baby versions, so you can actually buy the little one in your life a matching dress, plus the size range goes from XXS to 3XL.

Everlane The Japanese GoWeave Slip Dress ($98; everlane.com)

PHOTO: Everlane

Everlane The Japanese GoWeave Slip Dress

Slip dresses are like the modern, minimalist sister to the nap dress. While they receive full marks on comfort and versatility, they pass on all the frills and ruffles that many nap dresses have. This makes them the perfect layering tool, and ideal for anyone who values practicality in their clothing. This top-rated slip dress from Everlane is made from a crease-resistant (yes!) and cooling (double yes!) fabric that's incredibly soft.

R.Vivimos Floral Print Retro Bohemian Midi Dress (starting at $24.99; amazon.com)

PHOTO: Amazon

R.Vivimos Floral Print Retro Bohemian Midi Dress

Back in 2019, we raved about Amazon's nightgown dress. The dress has a super relaxed boho shape and a deep V-neck cut with tassels, all of which are reminiscent of some Free People designs — just at a fraction of the price. So if you're looking for something that will give you total freedom of movement, that you might get wet at the beach or pool, and that you won't be wearing to any fancy events, this might just be the nap dress for you.

Free People Embroidered Fable Midi Dress ($168; freepeople.com)

PHOTO: Free People

Free People Embroidered Fable Midi Dress

Sanders suggests larger patterns, as opposed to small floral prints, when it comes to looking more fashion and less like you're wearing a nightgown you'd actually sleep in. This embroidered dress is one take on that bolder pattern, which reviewers say garner tons of compliments.

One of them writes, "I'm really mad at myself for wasting time on other dresses when I could have been buying this dress in multiple colors the last few years. It had been on my radar but I never took the plunge."

View from the Meadow Off-The-Shoulder Dress ($66; lulus.com)

PHOTO: Lulus

View from the Meadow Off-The-Shoulder Dress

This option from Lulu's, one of our favorite places to shop for affordable yet high-quality dresses, features the nap dress's signature smocked bodice and flowy skirt, but swaps big sleeves for short off-the-shoulder ones. With thigh-high slits, the whole dress is sleek, and just a little sexier than your typical nap dress.

Free People Violet Mini Dress ($108; freepeople.com)

PHOTO: Free People

Free People Violet Mini Dress

Sanders explains that many maxi-length nap dresses can be "overwhelming to most women who are under 5'7"." Short nap dresses feature everything we love about their maxi-length counterparts, but are friendlier to petites. This option from Free People comes in seven stunning colors, and features a cute tie in the back so you don't have to fret about buttons or zippers.

Madewell Poplin Crewneck Bubble-Sleeve Mini Dress ($110; madewell.com)

PHOTO: Madewell

Madewell Poplin Crewneck Bubble-Sleeve Mini Dress

This dress is the definition of versatile. The poplin material is just as lightweight and comfortable as traditional cotton, but a bit more structured — making it easy to dress up with accessories and nice shoes. The elastic-waist is still extremely comfortable, and the best part is that it has two, totally functional pockets.

Madewell Linen-Blend Alexandra Button-Front Mini Dress ($88; madewell.com)

PHOTO: Madewell

Madewell Linen-Blend Alexandra Button-Front Mini Dress

If you're into the shape and ease of nap dresses, but could pass on the ruffles and drama, a babydoll dress is a perfect balance between feminine and relaxed. This option from Madewell is made from a blend of linen and cotton, which makes it ideal for warmer weather. The button-front and hem around the middle is super cute, while still giving off that effortlessly chic vibe. Plus, and this is always a huge plus, the dress includes two deep pockets, so you can kiss having to carry a purse goodbye.

20 Dresses to Parade Around In on Easter Sunday - Vogue

Posted: 25 Mar 2021 12:25 PM PDT

Photographed by Nadine Ijewere, Vogue, March 2020

Spring is when we revisit those cute dresses that cold weather forced us to neglect throughout winter. And for those who celebrate, the most festive moment of the season is Easter Sunday—a holiday with fashion practically built into the celebrations with an unofficial dress code of festive hats and cheerful dresses.

It's the perfect opportunity to try out some of the season's biggest dress trends. Audacious dressers, consider this your chance to don one of Cult Gaia's intricately cut-out garbs. Or perhaps you're aspiring to let your inner Little House on the Prairie shine bright this spring, in which case a modest, puff-sleeved tiered Everlane dress will bring those cottagecore goals to life. And it wouldn't be spring without the quintessential floral print. We're fans of Chopova Lowena's delightfully quirky embroidered rose and cat-print dresses.

Whether you're preparing to meet up with friends for an outdoor brunch or hoping to participate in an Easter egg hunt, explore 20 cute dresses that are excellent for a spring comeback this Easter.

All products featured on Vogue are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Rutherford High continues collecting prom dresses and suits for students - WMBB - mypanhandle.com

Posted: 25 Mar 2021 02:42 PM PDT

SPRINGFIELD, Fla. (WMBB) — Tuxes, ball gowns, and jewelry are a huge part of the prom experience for high schoolers across the country.

Here locally that opportunity to dress up for the festivities has become harder and harder.

For years, Rutherford has hosted its annual prom dress drive just in time for Spring dances.

Students have been able to find their perfect dress and leave with a smile on their faces.

"Amazed, I was amazed. I didn't think the dresses here would look right on me but it did so I'm very proud." said 11th Grader, Markeyiah Lowder.

This year they are helping students dress for both prom and the military ball, with a variety of prom wear.

"I like it. There's a lot of cute dresses here. I love everything, plus they have it in all sizes. So it's really great, they got short dresses, long dresses, flowy dresses, I love it." said Lowder.

The school has also gotten donations from the VFW, Bay High, and Chautauqua.

"That's a lot of money if you don't have it. So one of the things we were hoping to do is offset that cost so the kids can put their money towards maybe going to dinner or having fun," said Senior Class Sponsor, Beverly Barron.

Students say it has been fun finding the perfect dress and accessories.

"They're so excited, kids on this side of town and all over the county have been through so much. But to dress up and put some bling on, to feel like a young lady and show out it's so exciting. We just oo and ahh." said Barron.

You can tell when the girls really like something and come out because they're so excited. It's fun to see the joy and the light in their eyes because they've had so much other conflict and craziness in the last 3 years." said Senior Class Sponsor, Lyn Byrd.

Leaders with the drive say helping out the guys is just as important.

"Don't forget our young men. We could use suits, all sizes, dress pants, dress shirts, any of those items would be fantastic. So girls or guys if you have any room in your closet, and you need some more space." said Byrd.

Any donations you might have can be brought directly to Rutherford High School until April 8th.

20 Best Wedding Reception Dresses for Any Bride in 2021 - Glamour

Posted: 25 Mar 2021 01:04 PM PDT

As if planning your nuptials isn't difficult enough, so-called pandemic brides have had to reschedule, cancel, and livestream their "I do"s in response to COVID-19. Many are still trying to figure out the best way to toast their marriage with loved ones, and have planned small one-year anniversary receptions or downsized their ceremonies for later this year. These "mini-monies" are on the rise—and with them, casual wedding reception dresses, tops, and outfits.

That's according to Etsy's resident trend expert, Dayna Isom Johnson, who tells Glamour that "reception-only weddings are just starting to pick up for 2021." She notes a marked increase in searches for reception dresses, elopement announcements, and wedding centerpieces on the global marketplace in the last three months.

As for the best wedding-reception dresses for these mini-monies, "brides are focusing on what really matters and opting for attire that makes them feel like themselves on their big day," adds Isom Johnson. "On Etsy we've seen increased interest in casual bridal wear like wedding jumpsuits, short dresses, and even beach wedding dresses." Designers and stylists have quickly followed suit, creating more casual bridal wear out of comfortable materials like cotton and linen, and leaning into relaxed silhouettes in the form of slinky slips and matching separates.

While we're all for wearing the gown of your dreams, whether you have five guests in person or 500 over Zoom, there are plenty of stunning wedding-reception dresses fit for more low-key nuptials and anniversary parties. Plus, most of these styles offer a way more budget-friendly price tag, and we certainly don't hate that. Ahead, shop the best wedding-reception dresses and styles of 2021.

All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

People are hilariously roasting Target's line of prairie dresses - Upworthy

Posted: 25 Mar 2021 03:42 PM PDT

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