Whenever I think of jean dresses, I think of those old “mom” overall or muumuu versions – not a pretty sight. So while the chambray and denim trend started exploding over the fashion scene, I was verrryyyy hesitant to revert back to my childhood memories of fully denim outfits. The other day when I was buying my supplies for the bottle painting DIY post, I decided to stop by Ross (which is right next to my local Michaels). Ross has let me down big time in the past, but something told me to give it another try. That’s when I found this exposed zipper denim dress for a mere $10.00. It was worth giving a try at that price, and I’m all about pushing myself to try things I normally wouldn’t buy.
Paired with Urban Outfitter’s watercolor tee and rock cluster necklace, Eugenia Kim for target hat, Athropologie pearl bracelet, H&M dress socks (I know I know, I like the way it looks, okay?!
), Jones New York cutout heels.
I wanted to see whether or not I preferred the dress over something on top. I can’t really decide which I like better, so what do you think – layered, or un-layered?
I actually really like this dress. It’ll be great once the weather is warmer as a simple, flirty outfit, and is such a versatile piece that I can mix it up into a ton of different looks (perhaps even a great beach cover-up?). It’s a far cry from the denim dresses I remember, I’m glad I decided against my preconceived thoughts!
Do you embrace the denim dress with open arms, or are you over all the denim looks we’ve been seeing so much of? How would you wear this piece?
*edit* I’m actually back from Disneyland! I had a few posts scheduled while I was gone, but decided to hold off unitl I got back – Sorry!









Patrice
1 year ago
If you like that Ross you should try the TJ Max in Moraga/Orinda (off Mt. Diablo Blvd), they have designers like Juicy couture, Stella McCartney dresses, Betsy Johnson dresses, True Religion and Jim Choo shoes. I bought a Stella McCartney dress there 2 years ago for 50 bucks, originally $375! I go there whenever I need a really nice dress or outfit, they have the best finds!
Maria Reply:
May 7th, 2010 at 10:13 am
Wow! Ok I will. I always get discouraged going into Marshalls or Ross, so I haven’t been in one in awhile, but I’m willing to try!
Becky
1 year ago
I love this look! It’s perfect for summer. I think I prefer the layered version better, but it looks great either way.
Maria Reply:
May 7th, 2010 at 10:13 am
Thanks! I think I do too
Cafe Fashionista
1 year ago
Ohmigosh Maria, you always look adorable, but…you look cuter than EVER before in this ensemble. I absolutely love every last thing about it! The hat, the shoes, the socks, the dress…love, love, love!!!
Maria Reply:
May 7th, 2010 at 10:13 am
Thanks dear! You always have such encouraging comments, it brightens my day
Cheryl
1 year ago
you look great in both!
http://cherylclarke.blogspot.com
Maria Reply:
May 7th, 2010 at 10:14 am
Thanks Cheryl!
Katie
1 year ago
I absolutely love it both way. You look so cute Maria!
Maria Reply:
May 7th, 2010 at 10:14 am
Thanks doll, I love how versatile this dress is!
Meghan @ Out of Order
1 year ago
I love the exposed zipper, you look so cute!
I hope you’re having a blast in Disneyland, if there’s ever a place for denim dresses, it’s there ;]
Maria Reply:
May 7th, 2010 at 10:16 am
Thanks girlfriend! I did have a blast (unfortunately got food poisoning the last day there but at least I got all the rides I wanted to in!). It was great, we were there on “Bat Day” which I guess is when all the goths around the US come together in Disneyland, it was so bizarre/wonderful!
Midnight Cowgirl
1 year ago
Cute dress! I like how you styled it with the layers.
Maria Reply:
May 7th, 2010 at 10:16 am
Thanks!! I think I prefer it that way too
Laura
1 year ago
Love that denim dress! What a steal @ $10! I think the socks and shoes look super cute and you could totally layer the dress and it would look fab.
xo S.S.W.
Maria Reply:
May 7th, 2010 at 10:17 am
Thanks Laura! I know, I couldn’t believe the price either!
Jaime @ La vie...J'aime
1 year ago
Love love! Exposed zipper- LOVE
Happy almost Friday!!!
Maria Reply:
May 7th, 2010 at 10:17 am
And a Happy happy Friday to you!
Janine
1 year ago
How did Ross let you down? They do have a lot of cheap items but I find that they are easy to spot and you can find some quality stuff very marked down if you search, at least in Portland.
I actually like your shoes the best. I usually hate open-toed shoes (or dress shoes period) with socks but it really works for you here!
Maria Reply:
May 7th, 2010 at 10:18 am
The one by my house is usually such a mess – no organization, clothes packed onto the hangers, and mostly stuff geared towards “older” women. I was so shocked to see them starting to step it up! Glad you liked the shoes, I wasn’t so sure how people would respond to it hahaha.
Emmy Hristova
1 year ago
That dress is adorable!! I like it best without the shirt underneath because it has a nice sleeveless cutout. I have a denim dress from Ross too XD Oh, and I also love heels paired with socks–I’m so glad I’m not the only one!!!!! I thought I was crazy LOL
Maria Reply:
May 7th, 2010 at 10:19 am
Hahaha! You are a doll.
Sophiasa
1 year ago
I think it’d be fine either layered or unlayered. It’s a very cute dress! And I LOVE your sox+_sandals!!
Ross is a difficult shop isn’t it? So much digging to do to find that gem!
Maria Reply:
May 7th, 2010 at 10:19 am
Yes! It was so nice they had everything organized this time! Thanks dear!
Nichole Medrano
1 year ago
I am a fan of it being layered and with that necklass it looks amazing!! You can rock anything so i’ll let the socks w/ heels slide but on me oh no no no I would look a mess! Total A+ on this spring/summer outfit!
Maria Reply:
May 8th, 2010 at 1:58 pm
Thanks girl! Hahaha your comments always bring a smile to my face!
Clare
1 year ago
Great dress, i love it!
tweet tweet tweet
x
Maria Reply:
May 10th, 2010 at 10:15 am
Thanks girl! Sent you an email (hopefully to the right address) btw!