Hello Everone,

My wonderful friend Patricia of Bolero gave me a new Erica dress for Christmas/my Birthday, and immediately I knew it deserved a mini-review because of some pleasant updates. Bolero is headquartered in perennial summer state Florida, meaning many of the styles use lighter fabric and much of her early work was sleeveless.  However, as the brand gained popularity, one critique was the lightweight fabric did not transition to cooler temperatures in moderate climates or the tundra (aka anything higher than New York . . . maybe even some parts of New York itself). Enter the new Erica dress fabric.

Utilizing a heavier fabric with thicker lining, the new Erica dress is not the type to break out in the heat, but it does keep you warmer in fall, winter, and early-spring. Personally, I prefer to wear it on days with a high of lower than 65F. Naturally, all of the things you have come to love about Bolero are still present, including fabrics which do not wrinkle, dry fast, and drape beautifully. The circle skirt swirls around the body in a flattering cascade to conceal the belly and accentuate hips while the v-shaped faux-wrap neckline allows ample room for the bust. All products are made-to-order in the US by professional seamstresses working in an ethical environment, and the quality and attention to detail are top notch. I have *yet* to replace a Bolero dress. I am starting to think they are indestructible.  Meanwhile, I have had comparable products from Ralph Lauren, Maggie London, and Calvin Klein bite the dust in two years with less wear.  You truly get what you pay for here.

For the mini-review, I am wearing the size medium with measurements 44.5″-32″-43″ which fits perfectly. She also sent me the Obi belt from New York and Company, which is so fun! It’s not really the point of the review, but if you have one nearby and love a wide belt, definitely pick it up.  You won’t be disappointed.  I love how it complements the plaid print, which itself is a hearty fall favorite.  It’s also monochromatic. Patricia may have recognized my addiction and just keeps enabling me, which totally works for me. Ask anyone I went to high school with, and they’ll tell you how often I wore bright colors.  Of course, she also got me to wear orange.  The woman is a miracle worker for sure.

So if you have always wanted to try the Erica dress, what are you waiting for? You have maximum choices here!  Buy. It. Now.  Oh, and if you missed the original review, you can read it here.

Erica, aka, the eponymous inspiration