Last summer, Nicole Weiler's resolve to wear more dresses inspired a movement. Thanks to several social-media-savvy women, the concept went viral. Women from as far away as New York, California and Arizona sent photos to the daily blog.
Ultimately, the message wasn't just about what was worn on the outside. "It's about people feeling good no matter how they look," said Meghan Wilker. "Every woman needs to work on that."
So the Summer of Dresses is back for a second season.
At a launch party at Aster Cafe in Minneapolis, the women and their male counterparts from Summer of Dapper prepared to take the campaign to the next level with sidewalk chalk graffiti and flash mobs. The participants have personal goals, too. "I'm going to get a little gutsier with animal prints and get a little overdressed," said Weiler, who wore a leopard-print maxi-dress. "Get used to it."
Here are a few tips from the dress-up veterans:
Know your best dress shape: Whether you need to look for a specific silhouette (A-line) or an era (1950s or 1970s), it's easier to shop if you find a style that suits you.
Utilize vintage and consignment stores: They can save you money and you can often sell items from your wardrobe back to the store. Recommended spots include Rewind Vintage, Nu Look Consignment and Lula Vintage Wear in St. Paul. According to Kris Huson, Lula's owner is a "dress whisperer" for her ability to select dresses for you that fit perfectly.
Change a look with accessories: Transforming a dress can be a cinch. "A belt takes a vintage dress and gives it an update," said Kate O'Reilly. A flexible wardrobe makes it easy to dress your dresses up or down with "flip-flops or booties and a strong necklace," said O'Reilly.
