A trip to River Island is always a fun one, even if you don't end up buying anything - it's great for a mooch.
I've recently been after a lightweight dress that can be worn casually, as well as in the office when the weather is warmer. With a crazy heatwave in full swing, and the next few days set to be absolutely boiling, I wanted something lightweight yet fashionable.
Anything animal print is an absolute winner for me, so I was chuffed to see that River Island had an abundance of different prints from pink leopard print to zebra print. There were a range of longer dresses and shorter dresses, and after a quick glance around the shop, I found the dress I was after, a black animal print wrap mini dress.
The striking animal print is what really made the dress stand out to me, it was a bold zebra print, which is a print I don't actually have in my wardrobe as of yet. It wasn't until I picked it up and tried it on that I realised just how lightweight the material was. At first, I thought it was a bikini cover-up!
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I went for my usual size 12 (being a little dubious about River Island sizing) and it fit me perfectly. I've often had to size up with River Island products in the past, but this dress was definitely true to size.
Firstly, can we just talk about how flattering the River Island changing rooms are - is it just me that thinks that? I popped on the dress and felt really good in it, it was perfect.
It features a wrap design and a v-neck with short sleeves with a mini length. I really love the fact that the dress isn't too mini, because that can sometimes be really off-putting when trying on a dress.
I'd describe this dress as 'perfectly flowy' and light, it's so ideal for the hot weather. I was a little unsure because it has black on it, and sometimes that can make you feel warmer, but this dress didn't at all.
I've been styling mine with trainers and sandals, but I've also tried it out with some heeled wedges for a more glamorous look and it works really well. One thing I will say, is the plunge v-neck reveals quite a lot of chest, but if that isn't something that bothers you, then this dress is perfect.
Material wise, it's 100% polyester and it's advised that you iron it inside out. It can be machine washed at maximum 40°C on a very gentle cycle. It also can't be bleached or tumble dried.
The dress cost me £39 in total, which does sound a little steep, but it's really good material. Although it's thin, it doesn't feel flimsy or bad quality, which is why I love River Island - you can always rely on quality.
I've already worn this dress to an outdoor gig, a picnic and into the office, so it's a very versatile one!
You can purchase the dress here.
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