Dress Time!

Hello again! It hasn't been too long since my last post, but I wanted to share some dresses that are my "repli-Kates" since the first post didn't have any! (What on earth was I thinking??)

Here are some looks from the pre-married days...just my version:

 

This dress is either a.) the same style Kate wore at a polo match, or b.) the same print but in a slightly different color and style. I have no idea, but it IS the same brand, BCBG. Either way, I love this dress! And the best part? I got in on eBay for $30! Way better than the original retail! I paired it with my Pied a Terre Imperia wedges in black (she also wore black wedges) that I splurged a little bit on via eBay. This style dress--with an empire waist--is very nice to emphasize the smallest part of the body just below the bust and then flows gently, showing curve without emphasizing anything else. ;) This style can be found everywhere, so just find a print you like and pair with whatever accessories you want!

 

 

This is another eBay find! The dress is NOT the Reiss one, but other than no exposed front zipper or the tulip hem, it's almost identical and VERY flattering. The skirt part is a bit more like a pencil skirt which really can show off curves. As for the shoes? They're the HOBBS Albini courts/pumps, found on eBay. :) (Have I mentioned yet that I love eBay?) And if you need an outfit reminder, this is my take on the outfit worn in Canada for the royal tour that year.



 

Here's a more casual look that I've worn several times to school, work, etc. The dress is by Warehouse and is a bird print. I always loved the Issa bird print dress, but finding a similar one is surprisingly difficult. Anway, I like this dress, but it's a "wiggle" dress--translates to pretty figure-hugging. Being a woman with a bust and booty, I'm a bit self-conscious in this dress, but add the jacket and I'm good to go! The jacket came from Kohl's when I was looking for an alternative to the BCBG Max Azria white jacket worn the day before the wedding. It's a soft beige color with a ruffled peplum. I love having it since it goes with so many things, as well as being just right when it's cold at work. ;)

 

And one more for now:

 

 

While not being a flowery person, I really do like this dress. (Pardon the fly-away hair, must have just come back home.) A DVF dress in a very similar pattern to one worn at a wedding and to a club by Kate (hers was black and gold), the shell is silk and flows very well. Also strapless, I chose to pair it that Sunday with the white BCBG jacket worn the day before The Wedding (another eBay find for $36!). Slip on a pair of light beige pumps (a solid investment every woman should do! These are Antonio Melani and quite comfortable.) and accessories and you're all set!

 

So, while I have stayed as close as possible to the "originals," I also make sure what I get will work with my body type since I'm not model-thin. Items that emphasize the best parts are what I go for, and let the rest fall in a natural way that downplays those other areas. ;) When I do buy an "original" piece, it's one that fits within this framework and--most importantly--is within my budget. The red Hobbs shoes are one of only a few things I've spent a bit more on, but those buys are spread out which does make them more special to me when I get them. :)

 

What are some of your favorite Kate-inspired dresses?