When I was in high school, my prom was a bit of a non-event. I had actually asked a guy friend from another school to go with me, who backed out at the last minute (quite literally – he backed out the night I was waiting for him to turn up). I still went with a group of friends, and in what felt like both abject humiliation and youthful defiance, brought a blow up parrot as my “date.” Yes, you read that right. Prom photos and all! Although I remember having a good time, there is a part of me that always wished for that magical, glittery prom night (sans parrot).
So every year, without fail, I’m naturally drawn to the bevy of beautiful party dresses that come a tumbling across the web during prom season – particularly those on offer from Unique Vintage, that are so reminiscent of the 1950’s party style I love so much. I hadn’t really come into my own personal style at my prom, and all parrots aside, never really got that dream dress. If I could go back in time and recreate that night, it would almost certainly involve a cupcake dress. I love frothy layers and tulle and romance. I love unabashedly bringing out my most sparkly shoes and rhinestoned accessories, sure to dress like a fairy tale, handsome prince or not.
So, when Unique Vintage contacted me about reviewing one of their fancy frocks, I jumped at the chance. I’d been eyeing up their frothy party dresses for awhile, and was really excited to give this one a whirl. This fluttery lilac number is reviewed below in terms of fit, fabric, and frothiness….
The Fit and Flare
There was no question that the Lavender Ruffled Tulle Cupcake Swing Dress was the epitome of frothy, fairy tale glamour. I opted for my usual medium in this dress, which is a 36-37″ bust and 28-29″ waist according to the size chart. I found this to be TTS, though on the larger end of the size chart for the waist, with a 36″ bust and 29″ waist. As I am a 36″ bust and 27-28″ waist, this was a bit loose in the waist on me (this gal likes it cinched). However, the fit was perfect in the bust and if I had sized down I think my gals would have been unhappily squished. If you are between sizes and not so endowed of the bosom, you may be able to size down in this dress.
This dress is made of a soft lilac swiss dotted mesh sewn into layers of ruffles on a sturdy tulle layer. There’s a beautiful criss cross detail at the waist in a darker lilac satin, which, in addition to the boned bodice, gives a tiny waist and uber full skirt. I was really feeling the beautiful sweetheart neckline, with layers of still more ruffles, which shows off my décolletage to it’s best advantage.
The skirt fell 28″ from waist to hem and has a 140″ sweep – which gives me a gloriously full skirt that I swear people write love songs about. If the sheer volume of tulle scares you, know that I didn’t find it to be overwhelming. I have no issues with volume, and rocked two crinolines with this dress. But, without a crinoline, it is still beautifully full and falls in a lovely drape.
In addition, this piece has adjustable straps (short and long waisted ladies alike rejoice!) and a back zip with a hook and eye. Despite the fact that tulle in general can get quite itchy, this cutie was fully lined and actually super comfortable. I will say the Mr’s eyes popped out a bit when I came downstairs in this dress – so this one is definitely husband approved…
The Facts & Figures
The Unique Vintage Lavender Ruffled Tulle Cupcake Swing Dress come in sizes XS-XL and 2X-4X and retails for $118. If purple isn’t your color, this dress also comes in a beautiful blue, white, green and black color way (and the blue is just begging for an amazing Cinderella moment). This style of dress is really difficult to find a true vintage version of in larger sizes – more often than not, 1950’s cupcake dresses were for cotillions and proms, and were often worn by teenagers (hence the 24″ waist that often vexes me). I love that I can get the same vibe in more modern sizes from UV without sacrificing the romance and detail that true vintage usually provides.
As with most of my Unique Vintage dresses, I’m really happy with the quality and fit of this piece. I love that they offer a range of party dresses for the vintage inspired gal, because nothing inspires confident than a dress that makes you feel like the best version of yourself. They have definitely become my go-to shop when I’m on the hunt for vintage inspired pieces. Prom or not – might be time to get your fancy on!
Anyone else have a totally horrifying prom experience? Enquiring minds want some company!
xoxo
Outfit Details:
Dress: c/o Unique Vintage
Necklace: Vintage (similar)
Petticoat: Handmade Petticoats in silver
Handbag: Mary Frances
Shoes: DSW (similar here & here)
Lip Color: Niagara
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