I tried on more than a dozen dresses from Simons, from $59 to $625 — here are my honest thoughts
Simons is one of those department stores where you can find everything — including a plethora of dresses, bags, accessories and more. I've been obsessed with dresses lately, so on a recent shopping trip, I decided to try on more than a dozen of them.
I tried on 16 different minis, maxis and even some more formal looks, ignoring the prices and asking myself which dresses I would choose if money were no object. It was liberating, and surprisingly, many of the dresses I selected were well within my budget. I even found one that reminded me of my favourite dress from years past, which I had to give away as it no longer fit my post-mastectomy body. From $59 to $625, check out 8 of the prettiest Simons dresses that'll take you from summer into fall — from work to weddings — below.
Twik Dual-Material Midi Dress
$69 at Simons
Oh, how I love a multi-material dress. This one, with its fitted jersey top and poplin bottom, fits me like a glove. At just $69, I was ready to take it home on the spot. The side slit pockets add a subtle, casual flair that busy moms like me adore. I love that this dress looks so much more expensive than it is — I can see it easily taking me from a day of work to an evening of cocktails with friends.
Contemporaine Small Fall Flowers Chiffon Dress
$125 at Simons
I'm already envisioning this lightweight chiffon dress styled with brown boots and tights for fall. It features a six-button crewneck, which I adore. The ruffled trim adds a flirty touch to this above-the-knee length dress, and the tiny floral print is so flattering. With sizes ranging from XS to XXL, this comfortable and cute dress works for many body types.
Twik Blue Peonies Smocked Dress
$59 at Simons
You know that one dress you can toss in your bag without worrying about wrinkles? This is it! The smocked and ruffled waist gives it great shape, while the patterned print is summery, but dark enough that it can easily take you into fall. It falls mid-calf, which is my favourite length on my 5'5" body. The only downside is that it's only available in small, medium and large — I wish it came in more sizes. But at $59, this stylish and affordable piece is still a fantastic find.
Twik Gathered Open Back Maxi Dress
$59 at Simons
This dress made me feel like one hot mama — I think it would be great for a night out with friends or a more casual wedding. The stretch fabric is fitted but not too tight, while the open back adds just the right amount of playfulness. The gathered fabric at the back and sides subtly conceals any signs of my mom-pooch. Since menopause, finding a dress that makes me feel sexy has been a challenge, but in this one, I feel both comfortable and cute. And for just $59? You can't go wrong.
Twik Honeycomb Dress Touches Flax
$79 at Simons
The adjustable straps on this frock provide a custom fit, while the smocked band below the bust flatters all body types. Made from a comfortable linen-rayon blend, this dress will feel great on those super humid summer days and nights. The decorative bow at the front adds the perfect touch of detail. Pair it with a blazer or cardigan in the fall, and you'll be ready for any occasion.
Ever New Macro Ruffles Flower Maxi Dress
$100 $200 at Simons
Trying on this dress brought tears to my eyes. It reminds me of one I used to own and love, but had to give away as it no longer fit my post-mastectomy body. With its ruffled edges and lighter colours, I think I love this dress even more than the one I had. And it's on sale for 50 per cent off! It's gorgeous, glamorous, and I know it will be a staple in my closet for years to come. Sizes are super limited, so act fast if you're looking to snag this beauty.
Farm Rio Pure Linen Square Neckline Dress
$625 at Simons
While trying on this dress, I felt like I should be hosting a dinner party in the French countryside. Made from 100 per cent pure linen with a viscose lining, it's designed for comfort. The smocked back provides a more tapered fit, while the elastic puff sleeves are incredibly flattering. The beautiful embroidery on this Farm Rio ankle-length number — a favourite brand of Taylor Swift, Meghan Markle, Selena Gomez and more celebrities, BTW — adds to its old-world charm. At $625, it's the most expensive dress on my list, but the stunning number definitely stands out in a crowd.
Farm Rio Boho Floral V-Neck Dress
$425 at Simons
This Farm Rio dress was the first one I noticed when I walked into the store. The soft viscose fabric felt soft against my skin, and the V-neck collar with its ruffled edging added an extra bit of detail, characteristic of this Brazilian fashion label. I also really appreciate the hidden side zipper, which enhances the fitted silhouette of the dress. At $425, it's certainly not cheap, but the warm shades of the garden pattern make it a versatile choice for spring, summer and even fall. Heck, wear a black cashmere cardigan, some black tights, and high boots, and you can rock it at your office holiday party.
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