In The Summertime - Collectif Mainline Dolores Lanai Hibiscus Doll Dress

The second the Collectif SS17 lookbook dropped in my inbox, I felt like a kid at Christmas mentally circling all the things I wanted to get my repro loving hands on. Amongst all the stunning prints and beautiful styles on show, the Lanai Hibiscus Doll Dress really stood out and I was so happy that the print came on my favourite dress shape, the trusty Dolores.

The Dolores has been a firm favourite of mine for quite a number of years, with many different versions of it reviewed previously on this blog. The reasons why I love it so are many - most of the designs have a lot of stretch to the material, meaning they are that rare find where I can choose a size based on my waist size and not my bust. The bustline is also incredibly generous, with the shoulders wearable on or off the top of the arm. And then there is the skirt, a floaty dream which is heavy and full enough that it doesn't need a petticoat, but equally looks wonderful with one added.

Dress: Collectif Mainline Dolores Lanai Hibiscus Doll Dress* (£55)

Flower: Temptress of Waikiki

Necklace: Pip Jolley (No longer available)

Stockings: Pamela Mann Lace Top Hold Ups (£7.99)

Shoes: Yours Clothing Court Heels (£19)

The fabric is a beautiful inky black, and a slightly different, more linen based fabric than previous designs. This means the dress doesn't have the same amount of stretch as previous versions, but it is still very true to size and boob friendly. The print is popping, with the beautiful red hibiscus flowers set against a dark sea of green and brown leaves. As a transitional print to take us from Winter to Spring, it's absolutely perfect.

Much of the new collection is bright and fun, with everything from watermelon delights to pretty prints. You can view the whole lot here in their lookbook, which has direct links to the items which have already dropped on the website. I absolutely cannot wait for the watermelon dress, especially after seeing it in person at London Edge.