I knew this burgundy red velvet midi dress would be popular as soon as I saw it. Something about it captures the sartorial zeitgeist. Well, everything about it actually. It’s velvet, the fabric of the season, and midi, the length of the moment. The delicious shade of red shouts of Christmas, yet whispers to be worn for everything from late autumn through to Valentine’s Day. I first wore mine for festive afternoon tea with my mum and then last week to lunch with Ian and his parents. I haven’t decided whether to wear it on Christmas Day or Boxing Day, but it’ll be one or the other.
(It’s from Marks and Spencer with an excellent price point of £59. My advice is to size up. Not because it’s a small fit but because it’s tricky to get in and out of; there’s no zip. The waist can be pulled in with the draw string. For reference, I’m 5 ft 9 and UK dress size 10-12. This is a 12).
Red Velvet Midi Dress With High-Heeled Ankle Boots
The midi length can be tricky to wear, especially if the hem falls to the widest part of the calf. For this reason, I wear an ankle boot cut low enough to show the slimmest part of the ankle. Matching boot and hosiery colour draws the eye down without interruption, so making the legs appear longer. For a more formal look I’d consider black fishnet tights with a suede high-heeled simple court shoe. Another option would be to wear it with some strappy flat shoes. Lots of options.
(My boots were from Clarks at least three years ago. I’ve put suggestions of similar styles with links at the foot of the post).
I love the detail at the neckline.
And also the detail on the sleeves, which are a very flattering three-quarter length.
And it’s perfect for swooshing.
As promised, here are some suggestions for some similar boots to mine.
From left to right: top row: Next £40 Lotus £65 (These are reduced to £48.99 at House of Fraser. Limited sizes only but worth taking a look)
From left to right: second row: Carvela £129 Kurt Geiger £199 Aldo £100
13 comments
Very festive dress! I have loved black heeled ankle boots all my life! Much more then normal boots! We can t have to many of them !
Yes, I agree! We can’t have too many! xxx
Just saw your post over on Catherine’s blog and I had to come over to tell you how much I love this dress. It’s gorgeous. Love the color, the length, the gathered tiers, the sleeves, and that cute little ruffle at the neckline. A great find. And l love how it looks with the booties. I’m sure you’ll get tons of compliments every time you wear it 🙂
Theresa
Aw, thank you so much Theresa. I’m so pleased with it and I’m looking forward to wearing it again within the next week! xxxxx
Hi Lizzy. That is just the perfect Xmas dress: beautiful colour, chique material and romantic details. You look gorgeous in it. Wishing you a very merry Xmas with your loved ones. Lieske
Velvet is everything at the moment, adore! This shade of berry sings on you Liz & I love how you matched the watch & nail colour. No wonder you’re wearing it a lot, it’s made for you! #rewear
Lovely.
A great colour, fabric and shape – really suits you. I particularly like the sleeves and neckline. Just loosen the waist for Christmas dinner, ha ha!!
Thank you so much Vicky and yes! Exactly! I’m certain there’ll be some loosening required! xxx
Love this dress on you…and with the boots too. I bought it a few weeks ago and it feels great on. I haven’t worn it yet but it will definitely be coming out over the Christmas period xx
Thank you Kareema. It is such a lovely dress isn’t it. I bet you can’t wait to wear it. I feel so romantic in it! Have a lovely Christmas with your gorgeous family xxxx
Wishing you and your beautiful family a wonderful Christmas too xxx
Thank you so much Kareema xxx
Are you going to start wearing tights now it’s cooling down