6 days ago
Reformation's dresses are beloved by celebrities like Taylor Swift, J.Lo & more. We styled 3 of our favourites for summer
Three Yahoo Canada expert shopping editors put to the test. Click here to be taken right to their review.
Is it just us, or did winter drag on forever? Us Canadians have dealt with unseasonably cold temperatures, tons of rain and even late-season snow over the past few weeks, meaning we've been living in hoodies, leggings and jackets. But with a significant warm up, we're finally shifting our attention to summer dresses.
If you haven't noticed, we're a bit dress obsessed over here at Yahoo Canada: Mother of the bride (or groom) dresses, dresses from Canadian brands, dresses that are flattering at every age — we've got you covered. One of our go-to retailers for dresses is Reformation — and we're not alone. The Cool Girl-approved brand counts Jennifer Lopez, Sarah Jessica Parker and Taylor Swift as fans, and their dresses are perfect for keeping you looking effortlessly cute during a heat wave.
Ahead, we put three summer dresses from Reformation to the test. Read on to see how we styled them, as well as to read our honest reviews.
$318 at Reformation
What I like about it: Picture this. It's summer 1997. I am doing a rousing performance of "Whose Bed Have Your Boots Been Under?" by Shania Twain on my parents' back deck. I'm wearing my "Shania outfit" — a denim shift dress combined with cowboy boots and a hat from the thrift store. Life is good.
This simple dress delivers far more than nostalgia. It's surprisingly lightweight and airy, which is always a chief concern in summer (especially when it comes to denim). While the A-line mini shape is simple, the square neckline and plunging back add some extra drama.
How I'll style it: I know I'll be pairing this with sneakers and a cute backpack for summer weekends, but I can also see it dressed up for cocktails with a belt and sandals.
Room for improvement: The fit of this isn't for everyone — I'd suggest bigger-chested gals steer clear of this one and go for something like the Balia Denim Midi Dress. I would also love if it had pockets!
Overall rating: 4.5/5 — Hilary Hagerman, Lifestyle & Shopping Managing Editor
$428 at Reformation
What I like about it: I'm all for a chic silhouette, and it's safe to say this maxi dress nails it. It's fitted in all the right places without feeling overly tight or restrictive on my body, and the A-line skirt adds the right amount of movement and shape to make it both flattering and breezy.
It's simple enough to be a staple, and the subtle eyelet detail at the bottom hem adds just enough interest without doing too much. And with removable straps, it doubles as a strapless number — versatile, right? It's like a 2-for-1, and I'm so here for it.
How I'll style it: I'm a huge fan of frocks that can be dressed up or down, and this one does both effortlessly. I imagine slipping it on with a sleek clutch and delicate kitten heels for a more polished look. On the other hand, it would be cute paired with some Mary Jane flats and a small shoulder bag when I'm in the mood for a relaxed-yet-stylish vibe.
Room for improvement: I love that this dress gives the option to go strapless, but personally, I'd prefer thicker straps over the removable ones. Also, if you're on the shorter side, I'd make sure the length works for you, as it might be a little long.
Overall rating: 4/5 — Melina Brum, Shopping Editor
$398 at Reformation
What I like about it: If you're in the market for a va-va-voom dress, Reformation's Balia Linen Dress is it. On a recent night out, I shared the above photo in a group chat, and the girls couldn't get enough of the linen midi dress. The comments (from some very supportive friends) included: "Omg. That is stunning," "This dress is insane on you," and "Please, can I borrow it?"
Reformation's Balia Linen Dress gives waist. It gives bust. It snatches and it conceals. I've already worn it on cheeky nights out and now that the weather has warmed up, my colleagues are sure to see me wear it to the office. I'm obsessed and would get it in every colour if I could.
How I'll style it: I am a ballet flat girl more often than not (catch me walking everywhere), so realistically, that's what I will be styling the Balia Linen Dress with (the heels you see above came off about two seconds after this photo was taken). If you are stronger than I am, the linen midi would look so chic with a pair of strappy-heeled sandals, but I think a shoe like these Suzanne Ballet Flats fit the bill nicely.
Room for improvement: My only gripe with Reformation dresses, the Balia Linen Dress included, is that so few of them have adjustable straps. This one works for me when I wear a push-up bra, but when I want to tame down the girls, adjustable straps would have been appreciated.
Overall rating: 5/5 — Kayla Kuefler, Senior Shopping Editor
