Lately I’ve found myself in a bit of a style rut.

A combination of too few hours in the day, a tendency to get covered in flecks and smears of Hector’s breakfast/lunch/dinner and the fact that I haven’t quite returned to my pre-baby figure has resulted in me reaching for a day uniform consisting of a breton top, skinny jeans and Jigsaw boots. I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with such a look, I mean hell I must really like it if I’ve worn it for the last 365 days consecutively. But it’s getting boring now and last month I decided enough was enough and frivolously bought a pinafore dress from Topshop on a whim.

Suffice to say I loved it and have worn it a number of times since it landed on my doormat three weeks ago and so began my current love affair with the day dress. I instantly feel that I’ve made that bit more effort whenever I’m wearing a frock but with an adventurous toddler in tow it’s imperative that they’re hardwearing, flexible and most of all inexpensive because at some point along the line they’re going to get wrecked.

With this in mind I’ve pulled together a small selection of day dresses that are currently on offer online that not only tick all the boxes I’ve outlined above but which have stolen a little piece of my heart.

Topshop

I couldn’t not start with the dress where it all began – this washed black denim number complete with flat-lying buckles and pockets. It’s short but that works for me because I’m not exactly gifted in the height department but it’s something to bear in mind for the leggy ones among you.

Depending on what mood I’m in I either layer it up with my aforementioned trusty Breton top for trips to the park or opt for a superfine knit (usually in grey) if I’m trying to look vaguely smart. Tights are a must too if I want to prevent the inevitable knicker flashing that ensues whilst crawling around on the floor after Hector.

I’m also very much liking this grey cord pinafore beauty as well which is slightly more casual than the frock I already own and has a distinctive 70s vibe going on. At £39 it’s patiently waiting in my basket until payday rolls around again.

ASOS

Ok so I’m the first to admit that my wardrobe consists mostly of blue, grey and black hues and I know that there are quite a few of you who have requested that we feature brighter pieces and this is something we’re super conscious of. Step forward then this scarlet swing number in soft jersey. The colour is gorgeous and I love the fluidity in the fabric – perfect for Spring days and Summer nights and I won’t say no at £22 either!

I’m a sucker for a denim dress and always will be, so when I spotted this 60s style Audrey Hepburn inspired ‘skater’ dress my heart said yes and I bashed the plastic. I’m expecting it any moment so will keep you updated when it arrives. Staying with the denim theme, I’m also heart eyed over this modern interpretation of the shift dress complete with raw hem, exposed zip and polo neck. If for whatever reason the ‘Audrey’ dress doesn’t suit me then I’m ordering this instead.

So we’ve covered shifts and skater frocks so how about the classic shirtdress then? Suncoo tick all my boxes with their dotty design complete with neat collar and drop waist and again long sleeves…I’m sensing there’s a theme here. Ok so it’s £72.00 but I think when you apply a cost per wear analysis to the buy you’ll be getting more than your money’s worth.

M&S

I know. I wouldn’t have thought that M&S would have been popping up on my must-visit sartorial checklist but the store has pulled its fashion socks up of late and this dress is no exception. Ok so for a start it isn’t short (eek!) but it’s not floor length either so there’s no chance of any tripping over your own dress scenarios happening plus there’s lace and covered buttons and the cutest ditsy floral pattern.

I have to hold my hands up and say however that I’m not entirely sure if the length would suit me so I’m popping it on my ‘if I was taller, I’d wear…’ list. It’s quite full come to think of it….

French Connection

I’m not sure if it’s just me but up until recently I felt that French Connection had lost its mojo somewhat but lately it’s picked up its style game and produced the Josephine broiderie anglais dress which I’m lusting after for my holidays later this year to Italy. It’s sweet but the black palette gives it an edge that can easily be exaggerated with a pair of gladiator sandals and leather jacket plus I can pair it up with tights for cooler Autumn days too.

Granted it is at the higher end of the spectrum but the brand currently has a 20% discount offer running if you quote FC20S at the checkout. Be quick though as there’s only four days left to take advantage.

Samsoe & Samsoe

Samsoe & Samsoe is a Scandinavian brand that has been popping up quite a bit on my online shopping forays recently. Think COS but with more colour and pattern and a dash more femininity and you’ve got the picture. When I spotted the Ink Print dress I fell in love before coming to my senses and realising that a cream dress with a 17 month old toddler would be a catastrophe.

I couldn’t not include it though; the long sleeves and round neckline are right up my street and the dress can be styled up for Winter with tights and flat Mary Janes or dressed down for summer with trainers and bare legs. I can but dream…

Warehouse

You may or may not know that whilst Charlotte was a Morgan sales assistant, I too was a Warehouse shop girl. I’d actually forgotten how much I really like the brand and I’ve got all the heart eyes over some of their new collection such as this and this and this. However I digress because today is about the day dress and I’m adoring this simple suedette shift in the softest grey. At £25.00 I really couldn’t care less if Hector pulled me backwards through a hedge because it’s machine washable too! Bargain.

Are any of you loving the day dress? Do you have a favourite tea dress or sexy shift in your wardrobe? And are there any shops I need to check out for general frockage? Why not tell us all about it below…

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