If you’re looking for a great dress to wear to a special occasion- wedding, job interview or a special night out with your hubby-you should check out Shabby Apple. I was recently given the opportunity to choose a dress of my liking from this vintage-inspired online store in exchange for this review, but believe me when I say, I will be buying more because they are fabulous!!
I’ve always been a clotheshorse and a fan of vintage clothing (but I could do without the mothball smell). It started when I was in high school, shopping my mom’s closet for old pieces to mix with new ones. Then in college, Sex and the City was on the air and I was obsessed with Miss Carrie Bradshaw and her impeccable new-meets-old style. Throw in my love of finding a great bargain while therapeutically spending hours scouring the racks of consignment and thrift stores, and you’d think Shabby Apple was made just for me. But luckily, Shabby Apple’s vintage-inspired clothing is available to women everywhere, letting you update your closet with just a few clicks of the mouse.
Shabby Apple is Clothing For Women, By Women
Shabby Apple is a women-owned, women-operated company that aims to create clothes that “both flatter a woman’s figure and maintain her mystery” (I love how they worded that!). Founder Athelia Woolley felt there were not enough dresses available for women who wanted to be stylish but still covered up. The designers at Shabby Apple draw inspiration for their creations from an array of places, including countries, eras and famous style icons to create looks that are a mix of classic and modern, and show off a woman’s body and shape in a flattering and appropriate way. For instance, their fall collection was inspired by Scotland. And you know Joan from Mad Men? She could be their cover woman.
One look at the Shabby Apple Facebook page and you can see the past style icons and noted fashions they draw their inspiration from. There’s Jackie O., the leading ladies from Hitchcock’s most noted films and screen sirens from the 1930s. If you’re more of a decade kind of girl, how about the roaring 20s to the free-loving fashions of the 60s, the mod 70s and everything in between. Shabby Apple doesn’t shy away from any style.
My Shabby Apple Dress
I chose the Serenade dress and it is the epitome of new and old. I chose this beautiful sea-foam green maxi dress with a v-neck, a knotted bust detail and small cap sleeve. Maxi dresses are having an “it” moment right now and this dress capitalizes on that trend while keeping with the 70s poolside/beachside party feel where it originated.
Unfortunately, I didn’t have a pool party or beach party to wear the dress to, but I did have a baby shower and it was a great choice. Not to dressy or too sexy, but not too laid back either. I have another shower coming up in October at a country club and I think I’ll wear it again, too. I’m still working through how to style it for fall—I’m thinking a cropped sweater over top and a stacked booties below—and I’ll post follow-up pictures to prove it.
The dress looked good on the screen and looks even better on. It really hugs my curves (which I’m proud of!) but isn’t tight or too revealing. The one thing I will say about the site is to be sure to take accurate measurements and pay attention to their sizing chart. I am a curvy girl and only about 5’5” tall, so I ordered the size I usually wear in dresses—and it was huge on me. Luckily, the return process with Shabby Apple is very easy and painless, and I was able to get a better fitting dress in just a few days. But that is why your measurements are so much more important than the number on the tag!!
Shabby Apple’s Full Line
In addition to dresses, skirts and tops, Shabby Apple offers jewelry, accessories, shoes, swimwear and maternity wear. They are also working on a girl’s line, as well. You can search the site and inventory by fabric, collection, silhouette, and price. And speaking of price, pieces range from $50-$375, but there are very few pieces over the $100 mark. And right now, they are offering free shipping on all orders over $100!
The other thing I have to mention about Shabby Apple is that they are feminists who believe in femininity and support other women worldwide. They donate funds to help women start their own businesses. That is a great thing. As a woman, it’s important to me that we find support in all aspects of life, from learning about the best new products for moms and kids, finding a great fitting dress, or starting a business. By nature, women thrive on support. So kudos to Shabby Apple for taking that initiative!
Get Social with Shabby Apple
For more information and to view the entire collection, visit www.shabbyapple.com. And do yourself a solid and stalk them on their blog, Facebook, twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and goggle+. You’ll be glad you did!
Shabby Apple Coupon Code
AkronOhioMoms.com readers can use the coupon code fanfavorites10off through October 14 to receive a discount off a fabulous Shabby Apple design (or designs!).
Happy shopping!
This was not a paid post. My own opinions were used based on my perceptions and experience. Thank you to Shabby Apple who provided the product for review.
