As the end of summer rolls around and autumn approaches, it can be difficult finding pieces that work well in seasonal transition. Style experts have started welcoming the return of the babydoll dress, a perfect wardrobe staple for warm nights and cooler days.
It’s been quite some time since the babydoll was popular, especially in recent years with the culture-shaping Kardashians pushing bodycon dresses and matching two pieces. The initial babydoll silhouette was actually intended for nightwear, with American designer Sylvia Pedlar creating the short, sometimes sleeveless loose-fitting gown in response to fabric shortages during World War II. The style is still popular as bridal lingerie (a more affordable alternative to a bridal corset with a greater choice of designs and colors) but is seeing a strong street style comeback for its versatility.
During these last days of summertime rock your babydoll dress with flat, simple sandals or strappy stilettos. As we head towards the cooler months, step it up to ankle boots or even knee-highs when the occasion calls for it (but make sure they’re skintight and not loose in any way). A flat shoe or boot also feels modern and mod and keeps the whole look youthful, which is entirely its intention. I’ve always found it tough figuring out what kind of coat to pair with a babydoll so your safest bet is to rock with a cropped leather jacket. For inspiration, check out pre-Autumn/Winter collections from Dior, Valentino and Chloe and watch as the trend moves into pre-Spring/Summer 2016 with Prada, Saint Laurent and Mary Katrantzou.
