Sharyn GreensteinRemember the house dresses that our grandmothers wore when we went to visit them? My Italian Nonie seemed to live in floral ones with snaps down the front, and she always looked so comfortable as she lovingly prepared us delicious pasta dinners when we visited. While those house dresses were cozy, they definitely were not stylish!
New this season is an updated style of a house dress called “The Nap Dress.” Trademarked by lifestyle brand Hill House, the Nap Dress is feminine and flowy and can be worn almost anywhere. Many styles are fitted or have ruching in the bust area and all are loose-fitting though the body. If you don’t care for ruching (which doesn’t always suit large bust lines) many retailers are also offering modern interpretations of the old-fashioned house dress. You can dress them up, dress them down, lounge in them, and maybe even take a nap. As we come out of our Covid bubbles and shed our loungewear, these comfy-yet-stylish, go-anywhere dresses might be the perfect dressing solution this spring and summer!
The Nesli is an A-line Nap Dress with elasticated smocking, a tiered midi skirt and dramatic puff sleeves. Fits both naps and busy schedules perfectly.
Greet warmer days in the Hampton Long Kurta, a breezy midi dress that offers a flowing, gently flared fit. A bright pink and green floral print pops against the rich navy background, making an effortlessly romantic statement. In 100% cotton from Roberta Roller Rabbit, a brand known for their soft fabrics and block prints. Ideal for taller BA50’s.
From Rails, this soft tie-dye print relaxed fit dress has a tiered skirt and midi silhouette. At Bloomingdales, Friends and Family sale through 4/3.
Crafted from an airy blend of linen and cotton, this button-front dress from Madewell is the ultimate look-cute-without-even-trying piece. And, yes, it has pockets. Could double as a beach cover-up too. Also in black and tan. Great for petites.
The Caroline is a long Nap Dress with a puff sleeve and smocked neck that can also be worn off the shoulder. The sleeves feature loose smocking and no elastic, so you can sleep (work, or play) comfortably. Selling fast.
A flouncy hem and a bold, spring-ready hue infuse this maxi with unsurpassed polish and poise – making it a fabulous match for sandals or crisp white sneakers. Also in petite and plus sizes. From Anthropologie.
From WAYF, this printed shift dress will be so comfortable you won’t want to take it off. At Bloomingdales and part of Friends and Family through 4/3.
Swap out your usual T-shirt for the effortless charm of this short-sleeve shift dress from Roberta Roller Rabbit. Crafted with airy chambray and cotton voile fabric in a relaxed, breezy fit. A subtle floral pattern and swingy tassel ties add a spring-ready vibe. 34.5″ length, great for shorter women. In 100% cotton.
From Aqua, this eyelet smocked midi dress in white is feminine and comfortable. Love the pockets. Part of Bloomingdales Friends and Family through 4/3.
This floral tie shoulder maxi dress from Tory Burch is in a beautiful floral print with tiered layers.
The Katherine is a short Nap Dress with puff sleeves and a Victorian-inspired high neck.