Words by Kate Sinclair

Whether it be for a special occasion, work or relaxing at home or on holiday, everyone needs a reliable selection of go-to dresses. At Unpolished dresses are a staple in our wardrobes, favouring vintage inspired designs and prints, comfortable fabrics, romantic silhouettes and delicate details – we love nothing more than a beautiful frock! With that in mind our Fashion Editor Rachel Bakewell shares some of her favourite dress brands of the moment (some  you may not of heard of, but definitely need to know!) and highlights her favourite pieces from each of these amazing designers.

 

DOEN

Founded by sisters Margaret and Katherine Kleveland and run by a collective of creative Los Angeles-based women, Doen strive to create elevated yet wearable pieces for the everyday. Their easy to wear dresses are inspired by vintage designs and a nostalgia for the California of past decades. We love their vintage inspired floral fabrics, floaty silhouettes and ruffle details. Our current favourite is the Moore dress; with lace inserts, victoriana-style high collar, pin tucks and ruffles galore, it’s the perfect LBD.

 

 

MEADOWS

The definition of romantic and  feminine; Meadows draw inspirations from Victoriana, prairie-style and folklore – a winning combination. You would never guess that this was the sister line of L.F. Markey were it not for the shared brand values of slow fashion and ethical manufacture which head designer Louise Markey holds dear. Their long maxi dresses feature floral prints and exquisite embroidered details. The ditsy daffodil dress is so pretty and great for transitioning through the seasons.

 

LEE MATTHEWS

Nearly 20 years since the launch of her brand, Lee Mathews’ namesake label has become eponymous for creating feminine, wearable clothing in a muted and understated colour palette. Drawing inspiration from architecture, art, flora and fauna, her designs feature sculptural silhouettes and sophisticated minimal prints as well as contemporary drawstring and gathered tie details. The voluminous silhouette of the Elsie dress is so romantic yet understated in relaxed cotton-blend poplin, making it beautiful and versatile!

 

THREE GRACES

Three Graces isn’t new to the scene but we couldn’t not mention their amazing vacation wear. Working with luxurious fabrics to create perfect relaxed yet elegant silhouettes, their dresses evoke an irresistible feeling of freedom and have a timeless appeal. Natural fibres are key to the brand who emphasise the importance of how the clothing feels against the skin whilst worn and source the best materials that Europe has to offer. The Cosette cotton dress is a gorgeous shade of pink and when paired with the square neckline and tiered silhouette is the perfect example of contemporary femininity.

 

 

RENLI SU

Inspired by fairy tales and mythology, the designs of Renli Su are truly in a fantasy world of their own. Created using delicate lace, comfortable cottons and crushed silks, her ethereal designs incorporate Victoriana inspired collars and cuffs combined with loose fitting, billowing silhouettes. We love the delicate and subtle floral and underwater inspired prints that adorn many of her designs. Easy to wear simply as they are or layered with knitwear, her dresses can be worn all year round. Our current favourite is this puff sleeves pink number covered in a tiny gooseberry print inspired by Chritina Rosetti’s Goblin Market.

 

LORETTA CAPONI

Since it was founded in 1967, Loretta Caponi’s namesake brand has evolved into a label best known for it’s signature hand-embroidered clothing. With Loretta’s grandson Guido now in charge, the label champions the continuation of it’s Italian Heritage and classic techniques. Their ethereal hand crafted pieces are feminine, whimsical and super easy to wear. Their specialism in long floral printed, smocked, cotton gowns is what attracted us to the brand and continues to charm us to this day. This exclusive style for MatchesFashion.com has everything: smocked yoke, high neck and ruffled accents – perfect!