Bernie Dexter Love

Hey there!  It's Ashley, and if you don't know me already, I blog over at Southern (California) Belle.  I wanted to do something a little different today and talk about one of my favorite brands, Bernie Dexter.  I'm the type of person who will buy something in every color and print if the fit is perfection.  I've certainly found my perfect match with Bernie and her dresses.



I think what initially grabbed my attention was the unique prints.  They're so vibrant and unlike anything I've seen before.  While she carries lots of novelty prints, my favorite is definitely anything with a floral print.  Her dresses are also 100% cotton so they're nice and breathable.  Some styles have heavier fabric than others but every single one I own is perfect for warmer weather.


Most of Bernie Dexter's designs have beautiful full skirts.  They can easily accommodate a petticoat underneath but look just as beautiful without one.  My favorite styles are the "bra friendly" necklines and there are many to choose from.  I love the Veronique style (pictured on the left above) because the neckline is flirty but has full coverage in the back.


Many of her dresses come with matching belts as well.  Some have belts with the same printed fabric as the dress and others come with a shiny contrasting belt.  I don't always wear it, but it's nice to be able to mix and match with other dresses.


Of course, like most ladies, I appreciate a dress with pockets!  Most styles come with pockets, but they're usually pretty small.  It's always a plus when you can carry your cell phone and some lip gloss without carrying a purse.


Sizing is usually from XS-2XL.  For the most part, I'm a true to size small but I own a few in a medium and even one in an extra small.  If you're pretty large in the bust, I'd size up for styles like the Frenchie, Mariposa, and Paris.  I find that these styles don't really accommodate a larger chest so I don't own any of them.  It's a shame because I've been dying to own this dress!


While I would definitely consider a Bernie Dexter dress an investment piece (ranging from $156-$225), there are ways to get one in your closet for cheaper!  Bernie has sales on her website quite often.  Anything discounted is final sale, but if you're confident in your size you can get one for close to half price!  She also sells discontinued styles on her eBay store and her store on Etsy which features last chance dresses from $55 and up.


I have yet to photograph two dresses, but this is the majority of my collection.  I feel like every dress is beautiful and special in their own way.  Do you own a Bernie Dexter dress?  What other brands do you love?  Let me know in the comments below!
xoxo
Ashley