During a recent shopping spree, I decided to visit my local Roman store after being drawn in by the array of beautiful dresses displayed in the window. I didn’t have anything specific in mind, but I found myself trying on several vibrant dresses in various styles suitable for any event. A few of these dresses were part of Roman’s summer sale, offering significant discounts.
While all the dresses I tried on were stunning and fit me well (I’m a size 14), I ended up buying two that made me feel comfortable and confident as they covered some areas I’m conscious about. This includes my tummy and the tops of my arms, so I usually opt for dresses with sleeves and those that don’t cling to my stomach.
Luckily, the two dresses I selected were extremely flattering on my tummy and both had short sleeves, covering the tops of my arms. The first dress I tried on was the Polka Dot Twist Front Midi Dress, which impressed me so much that I knew it had to come home with me the second I slipped it on. Although it’s labelled as red on the Roman website, the colour is more of a bright orange, as reported by the Mirror.
The dress comes in sizes 10 to 20 and typically costs £45, however, I managed to get it in the sale for £25, and it’s currently still available at a reduced price online. The smooth woven fabric is soft and cool, making it perfect for wearing during the warmer months.
The dress features a lovely sweetheart neckline and short puff sleeves with elasticated cuffs, a detail I particularly appreciated as it ensures the sleeves won’t roll up to expose my upper arms. The polka dot dress is incredibly flattering over the bust area, thanks to a pleated twist front detail that offers a hint of cleavage without being overly revealing. The dress has a shirred back for a comfortable fit and falls to a graceful midi length, finished with a charming frill hem.
The second Roman dress that I took home with me is slightly more casual, and I wore it the very next day for a family member’s birthday meal. The Fuchsia Cotton Stretch Jersey Mix Midi Dress is available in sizes 10 to 20 and usually retails for £40, but I managed to get it for £25, with this sale price still available online.
The vibrant pink dress is extremely comfortable, with the top half made from a stretch jersey fabric that feels like you’re wearing a t-shirt. The skirt is crafted from cotton that’s so light you can barely feel it. The dress features short sleeves and a round scoop neckline, perfect for showcasing your favourite necklace. It offers a flattering fit and flare silhouette due to its gathered waist, which is ideal for concealing my tummy.
While trying it on in the fitting room, I discovered it had side pockets, which was a delightful surprise. I paired the midi dress with black platform Converse and simple silver jewellery for a lunchtime birthday meal, but I believe it would also look lovely with heels or wedges for a more glamorous look. I’m already looking forward to wearing it again.
If you’re interested in exploring similar summer dresses, New Look offers a Red Crinkled Short Sleeved Midi Dress for £23.99, although it doesn’t have a cotton skirt like the Roman version. Nobody’s Child is selling a White Polka Dot Delilah Midi Dress on sale for £52.50.