I picked up three new sundresses this year, all IBS-belly friendly, and I’ve realised they fall into three categories. The sophisticated boho dream, the cutesy floral number and the voluminous polka dot childlike one. That wasn’t how they were categorised on ASOS but I feel is an accurate description. Hear me out on what they have in common and why I’m living in them.
The Sophisticated Boho Dream
Who doesn’t live for a bit of broderie anglaise in the summer? Except it’s in black which firstly, isn’t brilliant in the heat as it absorbs it all in and secondly, I don’t personally think black screams boho but stick with me.
You see, it’s the perfect off the shoulder, casual-but-chic dress. Easy to pull on, accessorise and go. Whether that’s to a pub garden for an Aperol Spritz or to the beach with your family. Importantly it has an elasticated waist and swinging full skirt, meaning there is ample room for IBS bloat, should you need it. Failing that, it hides a ginormous meal. The embroidery is gorgeous and it’s 100% cotton which helps with the sweat issue. I don’t know about you but this summer I’ve been sweating in places I didn’t know could sweat. Lovely. Get it here
The Cutesy Floral (with a fuck-tonne of buttons)
Now, I’ll be honest, I wasn’t sure about this dress at first. It’s very floral, very quaint and very off the shoulder. I didn’t think I’d like it. But then I tried it on and was sold. It’s such a nice fit, the bardot neck is kinda sexy, I love all the buttons running down the front – although I should point out they’re a faffy pain to do up – and of course, the best bit, it nips in at the waist before flaring into a full skirt. I’ve been wearing this dress into the office a lot and it always guarantees compliments. It’s a win. Get it here
The Voluminous Polka Dot Child
If I had to pick a favourite – don’t tell the others because they obviously have feelings – it’d likely be this one, purely because it releases my inner child and I love that feeling. It’s covered in polka dots, has a square neck, cami straps, super relaxed fit and a tiered, ruffle skirt. I throw this on to wear around the house, sans bra, my favourite. I like to twirl in this dress. I like to go for walks in the park in this dress. And I like to eat as much barbecue food as I can fit in my belly, in this dress. It’s baggy but in a good way. It’s spot on. See what I did there?! Get it here
Summer dressing is all about comfort and volume. You need a dress that is generous enough to let the IBS grow and also let the air in! And these three all have that in common.