Midnight Lace with LUISAVIAROMA

Self Portrait Louisa dress c/o UK6 Gianvito Rossi heels c/o sz 35.5, Gucci disco bag
The whirlwind of weddings last year in our circle of friends has given way to a steady stream of babies this year. It's incredible how life events come in such close waves, and my fear is it all goes by too quickly! We're trying to take it slow and enjoy the few weddings we do have this year, including an upcoming one at the end of summer. I'll be wearing this dress, which has transitional midnight tones but is still heat-friendly with lace cutouts all around the torso.

Today's post is in partnership with LUISAVIAROMA, an Italian-based retailer with a huge assortment of handbags, shoes, and apparel from top designers around the world. They offer free express shipping and return shipping for shoppers around the world, plus cover all taxes / duties which can be significant on big purchases.

I found several pieces from my wardrobe available at their store, including this Gucci soho disco bag (still available in the popular tan color), the classic Ferragamo Varina flats and Vara low pumps, the smaller version of my beloved Saint Laurent bag, and no shortage of Valentino studded pumps.

I've gotten a few questions from readers on the sizing & fit of Self Portrait pieces and whether they are petite-friendly. I've admired the stunning dresses from this brand on others many-a-times, but usually on tall and leggy ladies so wasn't sure what to expect. After trying on several styles including their signature Azalea dress, I'd say the lace pieces definitely run on the smaller side with size US 0 / UK 4 fit more like a 00 (measuring 12" or smaller across the waist). In some of them a US 2 was more comfortable on me for breathing room. The midi dresses that look below-the-knee length on the models are closer to mid-calf length on someone my height, and the slim shoulder straps are not adjustable, so may need to be shortened. The above-the-knee ones like the Louisa dress I'm wearing however fit shorter ladies well right off the rack. This one looked super mini on the model and fit me as shown in a US 2 / UK 6 with no alterations.

Thank you to LUISAVIAROMA and Shopstyle for sponsoring this post.