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Easy Athleisure Dress For Spring

This post is sponsored by Nordstrom and ShopStyle. Athleisure wear has taken the fashion scene by storm. Workout clothes and easy-to-wear clothes that are comfy are more popular than ever, so today I am stepping it up a notch and sharing how to wear an athleisure dress for spring. I’m delighted once again to partner with Nordstrom to bring you a fun, easy-to-wear look featuring Nordstrom Made Brands.

fashion blogger jennifer connolly wearing nordstrom striped dress

Did you know that Halogen, Treasure & Bond, Caslon, and 1901 are just a few of the in-house clothing brands by Nordstrom? Their design team in Seattle houses a team of fashion designers whose sole purpose is to create brands for you, inspired by you. They focus on fashion and value which includes clothing, shoes, jewelry, loungewear, hats, activewear, you name it. They have everything you need for spring!

 

woman holding straw hat and walking towards the camera
WEARING – CASLON SLUB KNIT DRESSĀ  –Ā  HOOP EARRINGĀ  –Ā  Ā BP. SONNY SNEAKERSĀ  –Ā  MARGO CROSSBODY BAGĀ  –Ā  PACKABLE PANAMAĀ  HAT

Athleisure dress

Is there anything more classic than navy and white for spring? Today’s ootd starts with this classic Caslon Slub Knit dress in a fresh stripe that couldn’t be easier to pop on, accessorize and go. It’s a great weight for spring and will be cool enough to get you through the summer. You know I love a V-neckline because it flatters every silhouette.

 

blonde woman sitting on bench wearing striped dress and straw hat

 

I love that this dress has short sleeves that are a little longer than most so they offer more upper arm coverage. It has a slight shirttail hemline and would look great with a belt. It runs large so I sized down to a small which skims my body without being too body-conscious.

 

over 50 fashion blogger wearing striped tee dress and straw hat
WEARING – CASLON SLUB KNIT DRESSĀ  –Ā  HOOP EARRINGĀ  –Ā  Ā BP. SONNY SNEAKERSĀ  –Ā  MARGO CROSSBODY BAGĀ  –Ā  PACKABLE PANAMAĀ  HAT

What clinched the deal for me was the vertical side panels that optically slim your silhouette! You can see the side detail from straight on which is very slimming. It’s sized from XXS-XXL and seems to be selling out pretty fast so I hope they will restock it. It’s also available in Olive if navy stripes are not your thing:)

 

woman walking wearing navy and white striped dress with blue hat and white sneakers
WEARING – CASLON SLUB KNIT DRESSĀ  –Ā  HOOP EARRINGĀ  –Ā  Ā BP. SONNY SNEAKERSĀ  –Ā  MARGO CROSSBODY BAGĀ  –Ā  PACKABLE PANAMAĀ  HAT

White sneakers

This dress would look super cute with a denim jacket and some espadrilles or sandals. I dressed it down with these totally classic BP. Sonny white sneakers for a sporty look that’s perfect for so many things. The 1 1/2″ platform adds some extra comfort and a tiny height boost while still being flat. They have a removable insole so you could add an orthotic or any extra cushioning you need to make them perfect for your feet.

 

woman stepping off curb wearing tee shirt dress and straw hat

 

They run a bit small so I went up from an 8 1/2 to 9, and they’re perfect. In fact, I think they still make my feet look tinier than they are which is always a plus when wearing flats with a dress. They’re nice and roomy so I wore them all day after our photoshoot and found them super comfy! They come in black, pink, tie-dye, or this classic white which is perfect for so many looks.

 

woman walking in navy and white striipe dress and white tennies
WEARING – CASLON SLUB KNIT DRESSĀ  –Ā  HOOP EARRINGĀ  –Ā  Ā BP. SONNY SNEAKERSĀ  –Ā  MARGO CROSSBODY BAGĀ  –Ā  PACKABLE PANAMAĀ  HAT

 

Nothing beats a crossbody bag for ease and comfort these days. Many are so tiny they hold very little so I was thrilled to find this leather camera bag shape which is a dead ringer for my expensive bag! It comes in several colors but I knew I needed this pale blue to go with all my white garments this summer. It holds everything I need yet is totally compact. I can pack it with my sunglasses, a wallet, a small makeup bag, several clean masks, hand sanitizer, mints, keys, and have room to spare. It also comes with a tech accessory pouch you can clip on or off the strap.

 

woman sitting on bench wearing white sneakers and athleisure striped tee dress

 

The strap has several adjustable holes so you can shorten the strap to wear it as a shoulder bag or lengthen it to wear across your body. I’m finding a crossbody bag invaluable these days because it keeps my hands free while I’m juggling grocery bags, etc.

SHOP MORE NORDSTROM BRANDS

 

blue cross body bag and blue straw hat on table

 

You know what a fan I am of hats. They’re the perfect accessories to add attitude to your outfit plus they’re invaluable to protect your face from the sun. When I spotted this packable Panama Hat, I knew it would be a perfect addition to my collection. Packable hats can be rolled and stuffed into a tote bag and emerge looking fresh and ready to wear. I always keep a hat in my backseat for unexpected times when Iā€™m going to be out in the sun.

 

side view of striped dress on blonde woman
WEARING – CASLON SLUB KNIT DRESSĀ  –Ā  HOOP EARRINGĀ  –Ā  Ā BP. SONNY SNEAKERSĀ  –Ā  MARGO CROSSBODY BAGĀ  –Ā  PACKABLE PANAMAĀ  HAT

 

Mine is a soft blue and it’s also available in a pretty Mauve that appears more peachy to me. Itā€™s made from paper and polyester which allows it to bend and not break. I know from experience that packable hats can take a beating and keep looking good. This one has an inner drawstring so you can tighten it to snug up, or loosen it to fit your head. Its sporty style will go with all of your casual outfits.

.

woman wearing straw hat and striped dress with sunglasses

I added these very simple silver hoops to keep the whole look sporty and easy. These are very lightweight which is the name of the game with earrings for me these days. They click to lock in back and have a fresh modern look.

 

fashion blogger jennifer connolly of a well styled life wearing blue and white athleisure dress

And don’t forget that Nordstrom always offers free shipping and returns, BOPUS…buy online and pickup in-store, and curbside pickup…which is how I bought all of these! You can also join their Nordy’s Club here (free to join) and earn shopping notes for every dollar you spend. It feels like free money when I spend mine which is a good feeling to have:)

Thanks for reading and remember to wear what makes you feel confident.

Thanks to Nordstrom for sponsoring this post and thanks to you my readers who support the brands that support A Well Styled Life.

 

59 Comments

  1. I love everything about this look! I may have to become your twin! However, my multi colored old legs are not up for public viewing. Is this dress a length I could wear navy or white cabri leggings with? I’m 5ft 8in.

    1. Yes!! Cropped leggings in white or navy would be cute with this. PS- I used self tanner for 3 days before we took these photos. I swear by it.

  2. Pam Sledge says:

    I love this look!

  3. Frances J Johnson says:

    I don’t do stripes that surround my chest and middle, I’m way to short.

  4. I love skimmers. That what we called a dress like this back in my day. Did I just sat that? LOL
    You look so great in hats. I want to look chic with a hat but I just feel uncomfortable in anything that isnā€™t a visor.

    1. Thank you. It just takes practice to get comfy wearing a hat.

  5. This dress has everything I likešŸ‘ It has the v neck, ap sleeves, & the length covers the knees. This looks great on you and I would wear it just like you, shoes and hat and sometimes changes to sandals.

  6. Super cute, do they have same style sans stripes? I am afraid stripes not my friend. : ( I want to know…what shade of lipstick/brand you have on! That is perfect on you..so pretty!
    A big fan!

  7. Linda Henderson says:

    You look so cute. The dress, hat, shoes are just right. I always love shopping at Nordstrom.

  8. Great look! It was interesting to learn that Caslon, Halogen and Treasure & Bond are Nordstrom “house” brands! I have items in all of those labels and never paid attention to that detail. Love all! I’m trying to decide what I want from your look! Do I really need another hat or bag or dress or sneakers… Hahaha! …maybe… always! Nice look for travel or anything this summer.

    1. Iā€™ve been buying those brands for years without knowing they are made by Nordstrom. Nice stuff!

  9. Love this look! I like Nordstrom’s in house lines, too, especially their footwear!

  10. Cute dress! Just ordered. Hope itā€™s long enough on my 5ā€™ 8ā€ frame. Donā€™t like much knee showing anymore…..:/

    Susan

  11. Love the Sonny sneakers. Are they heavy? Have any ‘give’ to them? I bought a pair of platform Keds when the style first came out several years ago, but had to return them because I walked like Frankenstein! Like you, though, I could use an extra inch or so of height. Thanx!

    1. These are not heavy to me. I was surprised to read a review saying they were. The little platform is so comfy and yes, lightweight.

  12. This outfit is me. I love stripes in most any width. I have at least five dresses in my closet. I have a couple in a swing dress style which I like as well as the shift style. I wear with white and colored tennies as well as sandals. I have a couple of cute ones purchased from Old Navy at a really good price point.
    Landsend also has really cute dresses, the swimsuit coverups are a staple for me in the summer, donā€™t think Iā€™ve ever worn one as a coverup….some of the rash guard dresses have sleeves, these dresses are so cool, the fabric is cool to the skin. I use the rash guard tops to play golf, get cool fabric and sun protection, win win. In my mind dresses are the way to go for coolness in the summer. These type can be dresses up or down. Love adding denim jacket to the look. In either classics blue or colored denim.
    Might have to look into the blue purse and hat.

  13. That dress is so cute and the whole outfit is easy and cool šŸ˜Ž for the warmer weather.
    Love it !

  14. Really cute outfit. I really love Nordstrom and The Rack. I could definitely wear this just the way it is.

    1. The Rack is fabulous. Itā€™s one of the stores I only shop online. Because itā€™s easier:)

  15. Do wish the USA/Canada border was open, as I would definitely order this and have it sent to my USA Address for p/u. Particularly likes its V-neck as am finding many are cut very wide through the shoulder area now (comparing the opening to a few I already have in my wardrobe). Don’t know if you are finding the same Jennifer, but even notice it in other styles of necklines and have returned at least five items to date because of said issue as even appears to be occurring with crew necks. Loving the other pieces you featured as well. -Brenda-

    1. I have run across those wider necklines just recently. Some need a cami which I hate to ā€˜have toā€™ wear.

  16. You asked quite a while ago if we had any questions for us and you have yet to answer mine. I asked to see the inside of your closet as to how you organize all your beautiful clothes.
    Please answer!

    1. I will try to send you some snaps but I have a tiny closet so itā€™s nothing magical. Pants on one rack, tops on another and all shoes in their boxes on shelves.

  17. Dang! I wish I could make this dress work for me. The bold horizontal stripes are not my friend and I prefer a 3/4 length sleeve and do not show my knees anymore. I also shy away from an all white shoe of any type. Most of my summer shoes/sandals are in neutral shades. I love this look on you! The hat and cross body bag are perfect accessories for this casual look.
    I hate to create such a tight window of possibilities for my wardrobe options but itā€™s simply where Iā€™m at, here and now. I want to be current with new style and color options but they need to be smart options that I will wear more than once.

    1. That is smart. If you know you wonā€™t get much use out of something then itā€™s not a smart purchase. Plus that makes it very expensive no matter whatā€™s on the price tag.

  18. This dress looks cute, comfortable and cool. With the side panels I think the horizontal stripes would be okay on me. However, I must have pockets! I walk my dogs twice daily and need pockets for treats, doggie bags, and my phone. I do love Nordstrom and have ordered several items from their website during the last year.

    1. I admit pockets are my favs too!

  19. Elizabeth says:

    You look so lovely in the navy and white striped cotton dress. Iā€™m going to Nordstromā€™s and will try it on. You have really helped me in terms of sizing. I will now try some petites and smalls. Thank you Jennifer. Stay well. You look beautiful.

    1. If they donā€™t have your size in store, my local store didnā€™t have mine, order and take advantage of their free delivery and returns. Then you can try on several sizes to choose the best fit

  20. Nordstrom is my preferred place to shop. If I decide to buy an item and Nordstrom carries it, I always buy from Nordstrom. Customer service will always be my main consideration when choosing where to shop and Nordstrom gives superior service!

    1. I couldnā€™t agree with you more, Gigi. Their customer service is top notch.

  21. I love Nordstrom! A few years ago, I was on the Nordstrom Advisory Panel. I love the way they listen to customers and their service is top notch.

    I just bought a similar navy striped casual dress from Nordstrom online. I will pair it with my lightweight white denim jacket and I might add a pop of red with my deck shoes.

    I love the hat you’re wearing!

    1. I love Nordstrom!! Theyā€™ve been my favorite department store for many years.

  22. I love these style dresses for summer. An accessory or two and you look put together! I just bought the olive color.

    1. Iā€™m tempted by that but think it could be too warm toned for me.

  23. On you dress is adorable but with my hips horizontal stripes donā€™t work. I do love Nordstrom brands and order frequently. I will start looking for some solid dresses for summer.

    1. The stores are filled with dresses!! Just filled. I just added 3 more to my wardrobe šŸ™‚ Now is the time to look before they sell out.

  24. Pamela Over 50 Feeling 40 says:

    Super cute! This is perfect for my warmer weather climate!

  25. Nordstrom lost me as a (formerly very enthusiastic) customer about four years ago when they decided to become political and give in to mob mentality. Haven’t shopped there since and won’t resume now.

    1. Same here, thank you for having the courage to state this.

  26. Oh what a CUTE dress and looks so comfy. I’m wondering though, do you think this would look ok on a pear shaped body or I’m thinking it would maybe make my hips look wider with the stripes?? Maybe if I bought the next size larger? I want this to work so bad but maybe should wait to see what other dresses you will be styling that might be a better fit for me šŸ™‚

    1. Stripes do draw the eye directionally but you could add balance with necklace, statement earrings, or my favorite would be a white denim jacket!

  27. Just ordered in olive! Thanks for the cute find!

  28. Tina Olson says:

    The dress looks amazing. This is my preferred summer look and style. Dresses keep me cool and comfortable as the heat and humidity increase. There are so many layering options and shoes to change the look.

    1. I have several dresses in order because I agree. Theyā€™re comfy and easy plus they look pulled together with just a few accessories.

  29. Denise Thibaudeau says:

    This dress looked amazing on you, so I ordered right away. Perfect for spring and summer!

    1. Iā€™m wearing mine today with the denim jacket I mentioned:) it is perfect

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