It seems as if spring has completely skipped over Medford and the season has jumped straight to summer.
For me, there's no article of clothing that emanates summer more than a mini-dress. A short dress can be worn to class, nights out, strolling around Davis Square, etc. I've seen many students sporting short dresses. Some look darling; others not so much. The following are the top three fashion mistakes that can bring down a dress outfit:
1. The hemline is too short. When I say "mini-dress," I don't mean "micro-mini." A short dress obviously hits above the knee, but I do not want to see your granny panties when you bend over to tie your shoe. Anything too short looks tasteless and beachy. When trying on potential dresses, bend over and touch your toes. If you feel like the whole world can see up the skirt, then it's too short. There aren't many things in the world more awkward than seeing a girl pulling a hem down while walking up stairs.
That being said, make sure the hemline isn't too long. If you're petite like me, hemlines that hit below the knee and around the calves will make you look shorter. If you're really inclined toward thigh coverage, go with something that skims the knee or is super long. I naturally gravitate toward Dallin Chase's Naji Gathered Bust Gown ($121 at shopbop.com). The halter top is super sexy, but the length guarantees that it isn't overly revealing.
2. You're wearing the wrong shoe. Rubber pool flip flops do not constitute appropriate footwear anywhere except at the pool and in the shower. One of style's golden rules is absolutely true: Shoes can either make or break an outfit. I've also noticed that Birkenstock sandals continually make a comeback every single year. This recurrence is not so bad, but if you pair them with a tiered dress or peasant skirt, the results are catastrophic.
Slim sandals work for everyday wear. The Gap makes an especially adorable pair of gladiator sandals from their European Design collection in gold leather ($78.00 at gap.com). Dainty flats are another preferable choice. They elongate the leg and hide your toenails if you haven't had the time to get that pedicure.
3. The outfit does not change from day to night. Dressing down is a perverse symptom here at Tufts. To start off a day full of classes, I suggest going with a simple dress such as Lux's knot front jersey dress ($34.99 at urbanoutfitters.com) in navy. Pull on a cardigan or a blazer, a simple necklace and some chic flats. For the transition to night, you can shed the outer layer, add some funky jewelry and perhaps heels in addition to more dramatic hair and make-up.
Finally, when shopping for dresses, make sure you have the appropriate underwear. I can't tell you how many times I feel embarrassed for someone when I can see the hot pink thong under her white dress. Or, when someone's bodice does not provide enough chest support. Seriously, it's just embarrassing.
Short dresses are certainly chic and cool this spring and summer. Definitely break them out, but keep it classy. Like I've said before, a little effort to search for the right piece of apparel goes a long way. Enjoy tanning on the President's Lawn, and always remember to stay fabulous!
Lumay Wang is a freshman who has not yet declared a major. She can be reached at Lumay.Wang@tufts.edu.
