harly jae

4 ways to style a minimal black dress -- late summer to early fall by Candice Tay

Oh hey, it’s been a while since I’ve written a long form blog post. I’m slowly making my way back here and sharing some fun styled photos of a cute dress I received recently from slow fashion brand, Tradlands. They are an ethical, sustainable brand that I’ve had the pleasure of working with since the very early beginnings of my time as a creator on the internet. Today, I’m sharing 3 very easy ways to style the Birdie Dress for late summer days to early fall because I’m tired of summer weather and am so ready for fall fashion. I am itching to pull out my cozy sweaters again.

I have tried many Tradlands dresses in the past, like the coveted Nico Dress and the super fun Nell Dress and I can attest that their dresses are so comfortable, easy, and low maintenance. The Birdie Dress is no different. I love the easy-to-care for crinkle cotton material that can be machined washed and does not need to be ironed, because I’m at a stage in life where if I have clothing that needs to be ironed, I will most likely not be wearing it often. It’s also reversible and like all the other Tradlands dresses, it has pockets!

*This post is not sponsored but does feature gifted product and affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, when you shop some of the links, I earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. Thank you for your support of this blog!


Look 1

Here is look one — styled simply, as is, with the ties in the front. I threw on a beige baseball cap and matching beige socks (like a little sandwich) and then I did the socks and crocs thing. It’s comfortable, perfect for a summer day and easy enough to chase my kids around in.

Shop Look 1:

Black Birdie Dress (Size XS), All-Terrain Crocs Sandal, Le Bon Shop Ribbed Socks, Beige Baseball Cap (similar linked)

Look 2

When the weather starts to cool down, all you need is a good cardigan. That added layer just pulls together an outfit so easily. Another wonderful staple from Tradlands, is this beige cardigan that I’ve had for so many years. I love a ribbed, cotton cardigan that has just the right about of warmth for those early fall days. I kept the crocs for ease and I’ve really been liking that chunkier footwear style lately.

Shop Look 2:

Black Birdie Dress (Size XS), Cream Shelter Cardigan (Size S), All-Terrain Crocs Sandal

Look 3

I feel like early fall is the best time to wear knitted vests because it’s not too cold yet and just warm enough to have bare arms. I opted for this cozy knitted vest from Christy Dawn with the most beautiful button details and intricate knit pattern. To keep things casual with the footwear — crocs again. There’s a trend here.

Shop Look 3:

Black Birdie Dress (Size XS), Christy Dawn Dagny Vest (use code “CDCANDICE_TAY15” to save), All-Terrain Crocs Sandal

Look 4

I’m actually really excited to sport this look when it’s cold enough. I love the casual, laidback vibe but still really delicate and feminine with the dress and layered cropped blouse on top from Harly Jae. I love the different waffle texture it adds to the outfit even though it’s also a black piece. I went with the same beige ribbed socks and comfy New Balance 530s.

Thanks for reading my first post in a long time. I hope it offers some ideas for the next time you’re styling a black dress or maybe it’s getting you excited for fall?