When I first saw the Clever & Wily Shift ($328) I purred at the cashmere dress’s noticeably Audrey Hepburn-like vibe. So simple and yet so chic.
But then I saw the dress from the back.
It took me awhile to decide if I like this rear view or not. I’ve come to the conclusion that I like it. It doesn’t really pose the dangerous ‘oops, she has that dress on backwards’ situation as a lower-cut back would and it’s a relatively understated accent. Then again, I feel that the pleats could have been a bit more — if they became seams that wrapped around to the front of the dress for instance, creating a petal effect. Instead it almost looks capeish or like a very fancy hood. I could do without the bow but it doesn’t detract from the look. I think this would be a nice holiday party dress or great for a winter dinner date.
One thing I can say for sure: this shift would require either an updo or short hair. My hair is currently short enough that I think I would be fine. If my hair were grown out more it would just look like I have a lumpy back (with a bow growing out of it to boot!).
Is the Clever & Wily Shift a hit or miss to you?
