Anthropologie’s Somerset Maxi Dress Review
Do you have a brunch date, a garden party, or a tropical vacation coming up? Then, I may just have the dress for you! I just bought Anthropologie’s Somerset Maxi Dress for a special brunch, and I think it’s such a flattering style for many different body types.
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I’m wearing a Somerset Maxi Dress in Petite S, and am just under 5’4″, and around 125lbs. The Standard (regular) size is about 4″ longer. This print is no longer available, but Anthropologie has been offering new prints in this style for a few years now.
The Details On The Somerset Maxi Dress
Some of the dress styles that are on-trend right now aren’t flattering to many body types. Cut-outs, backless styles, smocked bodices, and mini-lengths can be a little tricky for those of us who are older, curvy, or modest. Here’s why the Somerset Maxi Dress works for so many of us:
The Sleeves
The Somerset Maxi Dress has slightly puffed sleeves, which add a little style without being too dramatic. Unlike cap sleeves, which hug and emphasize the widest part of your arm, this dress has loose sleeves that make your arms look slimmer.
The Smocked Waist
Smocking is a huge trend right now, but smocked fabric is also body-hugging. What I love about the smocking on the Somerset maxi Dress is that it sits just above my waist (the area that is not so squishy) and it nips it in without being clingy.
The Skirt
The skirt flares out into an A-line shape, which is very flattering if you have wider hips or a belly. On the other hand, dresses that have a straighter shape or a mermaid shape (generous at the hips and slightly tapered at the hem) will emphasize your bottom half.
The Split Neckline
Anthropologie describes the Somerset Dress as a V-neck, but it actually has a crew neckline with a split so that you can wear it slightly open. If you’re petite like me and struggle with V-necklines being too low, you’ll appreciate this neckline.
Pullover Style
I was a little upset to find, the other day, that my arms are not as flexible as they used to be (thanks, stress, for the shoulder tightness!) I was trying to zip up a dress and realized that I couldn’t quite get the zipper to the top. So I appreciate this pullover style more than I care to admit. If you get dressed in a hurry or haven’t been practicing your Cow Face Pose, you will too!
The Somerset Dress: Print, Size, And Fabric Options
The Somerset Maxi Dress comes in Standard (regular), Petite, and Plus sizes, so there are quite a few sizing options. For a sleeveless option, take a look at the Linen Dress or Sleeveless Maxi.
If you prefer a mini dress, take a look at the Somerset Mini Dress.
There’s also a Somerset Maxi Skirt.
What To Wear With The Somerset Dress
Sandals
Mary Jane Flats in knit or basketweave are trending this year. Try these Sam Edelman Knit Flats or these Madewell Leather Basketweave Flats.
If you prefer sandals, Tory Burch’s Miller Cloud Sandals are comfortable and chic. For a more dressy look try these Kitten Heel Thong Sandals.
Statement Earrings, Rings, And Bracelets
Since the neckline is already interesting, I wear a simple pendant with my Somerset dress. If you want to add some extra sparkle, wear statement earrings, rings, or bracelets.
Related Posts: Affordable Sustainable Luxury Jewelry That You Can Wear Every Day and Gold Vermeil Jewelry
Would this Somerset Maxi Dress work for you? Leave me a comment to tell me where you would wear it!

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You look great, thanks for your sharing…
Thanks for readign my post! xo Nipa
My summer go to is a long maxi dress with comfortable sandals. Itโs something that will take you from daytime right into evening. Such a pretty blue pattern Nipa ๐
Hi Nancy, That sounds like the perfect formula! I sometimes keep my jewelry and some brighter lipstick in my handbag so that I can take my look from day to night in the car (while my husband is driving of course!) xo Nipa
This is a beautiful style on you! I love the blue and white print and the sleeves. This looks perfect for brunch or as a wedding guest, really anytime you wanted to dress up. I like the MV rings too and simplicity of the jewelry as the dress is so eye-catching. Love the mini dress too- the black is classic.
Have a great day Nipa!
jess xx
http://www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com
Hi Jess, I may be tempted to buy a few more of these dresses. They really are figure-flattering for many shapes and sizes. Hope you are having a great day too! xo Nipa
Blue and white is one of my favorite color combinations! Love this dress ! Thank you for the explanation on this sleeve versus the cap sleeve. Very flattering!
Xo Melanie
Blue and white is one of my favorite combinations.
I appreciate your explanation of the capped sleeve. So true, in pictures Iโve noticed itโs not always the best option for me. So pretty, Nipa ๐๐ค
Hi Melanie, Mine too! It’s such a classic, elegant combination. xo Nipa
Those is absolutely gorgeous Nipa! Iโm leaning towards the black and white but I love the print they call Pink too!
Hi Tonya, I liked the black and white one too! Anthropologie keeps introducing new prints in this silhouette, so I’m looking out for a fall print. I love how easy this dress is to wear. xo Nipa