As temperatures rise, the fashion world turns to airy silhouettes, and Nordstrom's latest offering - the Sugarlips Vesper Sunfire Maxi Dress - is a study in effortless warmth. At $105, this poppy red and pink cotton poplin dress features a smocked bodice and ruffled cap sleeves, calling to mind the structured yet breathable foundations of lingerie history. Smocking, a technique dating back to the 18th century, was originally used in undergarments to create flexible fit without sacrificing shape - much like the corsetry that preceded it. Here, it sculpts the waist while allowing for movement, a nod to the early 20th-century shift from rigid boning to elasticized comfort, pioneered by brands like Maidenform (founded in 1922). The dress's V-neckline and tiered skirt echo the liberation of the 1920s, when women shed heavy layers for lighter, freer forms. Sugarlips, a contemporary label, channels this evolution: its name evokes the playful sensuality of lingerie, while the dress itself - available in four other multicolor patterns or a classic blue-and-white stripe - offers the same versatility as a well-curated lingerie drawer. Whether paired with sandals or espadrilles, this piece bridges past and present, proving that the art of dressing well often begins with what lies beneath. For those seeking a designer look at a fraction of the cost, this dress is a summer staple with a storied soul.
Originally reported by US Magazine