Hey there, friends. I’m here to tell you about a dress —maybe the dress. The dress you need even if you’re not A Dress Person.

I think we could probably count on one hand the number of posts I’ve done here at TME, over the past four years that feature myself in a dress. It’s not many, guys. I just don’t feel like very many dresses are flattering on me. And honestly I don’t dress up a lot. Heh.

The Pacific Northwest is just casual, y’all…Portland especially. And while I think I’ve truly found my home on the West Coast, being a Southern girl by birth, it does sometimes annoy me that we don’t go all-out a little more often here. Dresses don’t make sense for the usual weather, I get it — I’m totes in on the casual vibe here (as proven by the majority of posts I do) — but let’s all agree that putting on a killer dress makes you feel badass. Right?

And when you can find a dress that makes you feel badass AND is comfy, that’s just a match made in heaven, in my book. So, Portland, let’s come up with some more opportunities for me to wear a badass dress, k? K.

Pair A Turtleneck Bodycon Dress With A Moto Jacket & Pretty Neutral Boots

I picture myself wearing this fabulous Good American bodycon dress mostly when I travel elsewhere (side-eye to my city,) but I had to have it. It’s like Spanx and a cute jersey dress in one. While fairly tight to get over the head, once you put this thing on you are rocking. (Note: It is worth putting this thing on, but not on a day where you’ll be changing a lot…just FYI). This lovely piece is so soft and holds you in and moves with you and is just good.

I think a fitted dress is really flattering on those of us who are shorter. I tend to have fit issues with many other styles of dresses or feel like I’m playing dress-up. I have a shorter torso and not-too-petite legs, so getting a waistline to hit right while not being too long on top but not too short in the skirt are the dress things I usually deal with. Not with this one, though. I like the midi-length and the fact that you can move in it yet feel supported. And even better — it’s offered in extended sizes, too!

This would be a cute office look for anyone who wants a flattering-yet-comfy dress to sport around all day. I’d try to get away with the moto jacket in an office too, but if you can’t, a white blazer would feel fresh and super sharp. A long cardigan would also be a fun styling option if you wanna be super cozy.

Pair A Bodycon Midi Dress With Sneaks (It’s A Fab Travel Outfit, Too)

I’m headed to a conference in L.A. in May, and I’m thinking this will be my travel outfit. I’ll feel conference-ready when I get off the plane, and since I arrive a while before hotel check-in, I won’t have to worry about trying to change somewhere on-the-go. This look would be cute dressed down even more with a light-wash denim jacket or a gray zip-up hoodie for a sportier look.

Outfit Details

jacket // AllSaints Bales Jacket (US 6) – My very favorite. Ever. If you’re looking for a vegan or more reasonable option we all love [BLANKNYC] moto jackets!

dress // Good American Body-Con Turtleneck (size 1) – Fits snug, but you do want it to hold you in. If you’re between sizes, go up one because of the tight upper body as you put it on. Their numbered sizing has typical sizes in parentheses so you know which to get; they go up to plus size 26W. It comes in a gorgeous dusk shade, too! Contemplating that one as well.

boots // Mine have been sold out for a while, but the ones I’ve linked are very similar!

sneakers // Adidas Superstars – Another team favorite. They somehow go with everything. They’re great for travel, and I wear mine with either Gekks liners or Stance no-show socks.

Shop More Bodycon Dresses

Oh, And This Red Clutch!

This orangey red pop of goodness I’m carrying is a beautiful clutch from Portland-based, woman-owned bag company Marcher Studio. Isn’t it stunning? And it’s so well-made. The Allie Clutch fits a 13″ laptop or plenty of other essentials (I’m thinking magazines when I travel,) and I love it as either a clutch or as a laptop/organizer bag.

Office mamas: this clutch could easily take you day to night! It has both front and back pockets for papers/file folders, a soft microsuede stain-resistant inner lining and a luxurious pebbled leather that looks gorgeous and is comfy to carry.

I’m downsizing to a 13″ laptop soon, and I have a feeling I’ll love this for running to meetings or to the coffee shop to work for a bit without having to lug my whole backpack. And if you love this color and shape, but prefer a strap, the Kristen Convertible Crossbody comes in the same gorgeous shade with either a chain or leather strap option. Love being able to show off a fabulous Portland product!

And they’ve graciously offered a discount to our readers. Use code: LAURA20 for 20% off!

Have you tried a bodycon dress or found one you love? I think this will take me well into spring and next fall and beyond. What’s your favorite dress style that makes you feel badass or like your best self? I think we all need some clothes that make us feel that way these days, friends. Whatever you’re wearing, be sure to take up your own space in the world…you deserve it. Here’s to strong women.

xo,

L

Hey, friends. Hop on over to follow me on Instagram @laurajansenstyle to see more of what I’m up to in Portland, Oregon. If you want to shop my current pieces I’m loving and wearing, head over to My Closet!

Photos by the fab Posy Quarterman Photography