Product Review: Linen Halter Dress

Linen Halter Dress
Click here for product page
Item 15198
Regular: $115.00
Now: $79.99

When I saw this item being offered online, I couldn't resist. I rarely order a clothing item I have never tried on, at full-price. But this time I did!

I purchased the Linen Halter Dress in Charcoal- which really is a beautiful shade. While I waited for the item to be sent to me, I noticed that many of my local J.Crew stores started carrying the dress in white (and only in white). I have a feeling that most stores are carrying the dress, but not in all shades (charcoal, flax, misty lavender, & white).

When I got the dress, I was very pleased with the shade of grey. The charcoal color that is presented online is true to the color in person.

As for the fabric... it is lightweight linen. As this linen goes- it was the stiff (a tiny bit rough) kind. Not my favorite.

For the fit of the bottom, described as a "gathered A-line skirt", I found the images on the item page (click here) a bit misleading. The skirt portion seemed more full from the online images of all three sides (front, back, and side). In actuality, the fit of the skirt for me is not that full. The best image that portrays the fit of the skirt is from the latest catalog (which is the image, shown on the right). Clearly, the skirt hugs the hips. And when you put your hands in the pockets of the skirt portion, it becomes very snug around the hips. (Not a good look for me & my body. But definitely works for the model!) ;)

Also, when you sit down a pouch of puffiness forms around my tummy- because of the way the fabric sits (or doesn't sit properly, in this case). I actually became very self conscious about this and kept pushing down the fabric. ;)

For the fit of the top, described as "fitted cross-front bodice", I found it true in that it is definitely fitted nicely. Moreover, the V-neckline is not that deep. So it would be perfectly fine to wear it with just a bra and no cami underneath (which I typically do wear with V-necks).

When it comes to sizing, I went with a size 2. And for the most part- it fit me fine. (The top fit perfectly. The skirt portion was okay- just not as full as an A-line, that I would have liked). What is convenient about the halter dress is the part of the top back portion is elastic. (The zipper is on the side.) Therefore, the top is more forgiving in terms of sizing (either up or down). I have a feeling that if I sized up, to a 4, the skirt would fit me a lot better.

The halter didn't work for me either. This one seemed incredibly uncomfortable for me to wear- the linen tie halters around my neck kept aggravating me. I couldn't stand it.

I wanted to love this dress so much. However, I just couldn't love it... for me. I ultimately ended up returning the item. :(

What are your thoughts on this dress? Were you planning on purchasing one in the future? Do you already own this dress? If so, please let us know what you think of it. :)