I just got back from vacation in Ocean City, Maryland, with my family, where we shot these photos! It was such a blast. I had never been before and was surprised by how much I loved it. There’s so much to do, and the beach is huge. We stayed in the most darling little neighborhood on the bayside. All of the homes were so gorgeous, and I cannot wait to go back soon.
This fun, fruit-patterned midi dress was the perfect outfit for a night out in Ocean City. A few years ago when midi dresses were really coming into style again, I wasn’t the biggest fan of them. I thought the length cut me off at a strange place on my legs and made me look much older than I was. But isn’t it funny how things change over time? Now I absolutely love them! I think at times I even prefer them over my beloved mini dresses. The past two summers, I have been shopping for midi dresses non-stop it seems and have built up a small collection that I absolutely love.
A midi dress is one of the most versatile clothing pieces you can have in your closet, especially in a neutral color or pattern. They are elegant without being too fancy. The length makes them appropriate for basically any occasion – a wedding, church, work, dinner with friends and family, even the grocery store. They are comfortable because you don’t have to worry about flashing anyone if you catch a breeze or need to bend down.
Changing up the accessories allows you to wear a midi dress over and over again without anyone realizing you’re repeating an outfit. Have a more formal event coming up? Add heels, a clutch bag and sparkly jewelry. Want to wear it again the next day for running errands? Put on some cute sneakers, throw a tote over your shoulder and add some sunglasses. A midi dress can be the ultimate day-to-night outfit with just a few specific swaps.
The midi dress that I am wearing here is hands-down one of my favorite styles that I have discovered over the past couple of years. It’s pricier, but so worth it. It is by Reformation, and the style is called the Dolci Dress. I’ve got this dress in a few different patterns – the fruit and floral pattern shown here, a gorgeous red and white version that I wish was still available, and a delicate floral one that is also sold out.
Reformation typically has a big sale twice a year where they bring back older styles at lower prices, and that’s where I snagged the red and white one. I have my eye on the all-white version (the embodiment of the perfect summer dress), but am also dying to find this nautical themed one somewhere. I am hoping they make it into this year’s sale!
The Dolci dress is one of my favorites because it fits so wonderfully right off the hanger. It has a smocked back that will adjust to your body. If you lose/gain a few pounds, the dress will still fit you beautifully. It has pockets (!!!) and is made out of a really high-quality linen. I also love the hook-and-eye corset detail at the top! It hits the current trend but in a way that’s timeless. It won’t look dated in a few years. I’ve worn this one a few different times now and have gotten compliments each time. It’s truly a stunning dress.
Reformation is a sustainable brand, so all of their clothing items are made out of deadstock fabrics that were destined for the landfill. They save considerable amounts of water, carbon dioxide and more through the manufacturing process compared to other brands. I always like to look there first when shopping for a new clothing item.
To round off the look, I paired the dress with my favorite Chloe wedges and a straw bag from Zara. They were the perfect touches for a dressed-up but beachy look. I love that the wedges aren’t sky-high. I can actually walk in them! I think this would also be cute with a sweater tied over the shoulders.
I’ve included more of my favorite midi dresses below!
