1 Item -3 Ways – Georgia Midi

05.19.17

Happy Friday! What an incredibly gorgeous week it’s been here in Guelph. We’ve been given a rare early taste of the Summer season to come, which actually helps me to appreciate our returning Spring temps even more. I love living in a 4-season climate so I try to savour each one while it’s here, except Winter of course, that one is always too long.

As the days lengthen and the temps rise towards the Summer season I always find myself reaching for my favourite slinky fabrics and my go-to when it’s warm but not too hot is always silk. Something about it just feels so effortless and elegant. You could take pretty much any item, convert it into silk and suddenly it’s way more chic. That said, it’s taken some time for me to get to the point at which I can wear silk in a more casual setting. It used to always seem too fancy but after learning more about how durable it is (it’s actually one of the strongest natural fibres) and how it’s meant to be worn not just admired I’ve found myself much less apprehensive about it.

On Wednesday I shared a Responsible Formal Wear Guide (be sure to give that a look if you need some ideas and inspo) and in follow-up to that, I’ll be sharing some of my favourite formal pieces from my current closet. The thing I’ve always struggled with when it comes to events is feeling as though I’m dressed for the occasion but still managing to be comfortable. Additionally, as my closet has been paired down, I’ve found that I want my formal items to serves more than just one purpose. So here’s a look at one piece I bought specifically for a formal event but has become a total closet chameleon and work horse, the Georgia Midi Dress by Elizabeth Suzann.

Here goes the next instalment of 1 Item – 3 Ways. + 2 bonus looks because I couldn’t help myself! 


Style Bee - 1 Items - 3 Ways - Georgia Midi

ITEM – THE GEORGIA MIDI IN SILK CREPE


This dress is the Georgia Midi in Black Silk Crepe by one of my favourite responsible brands, Elizabeth Suzann. I’ve had it in my closet for a couple of years now and it’s one that I always reach for when I want to feel effortlessly elegant, sublimely comfortable and feminine in a simple but contemporary way. It’s one of those dresses that’s totally uncomplicated but still very impactful. Without fail, whenever I wear it out I get at least one person asking me where I found it. It’s been a staple in my closet since it arrived and the more times I wear it the more I’m glad I invested in this timeless piece. I’ve had tons of inquiries about this dress so I thought it would be a great piece to highlight during the Formal Wear Series and share my candid thoughts and some facts about it. Here goes!

1 | RESPONSIBLY MADE | Every piece that leaves the Elizabeth Suzann Nashville studio/warehouse has been made from cut to final stitch by their incredible team of garment experts. The care that goes into not only the construction of the garments but also the story and business behind the brand is exceptional. It’s one that I’m very proud to support and the fact that the Signature, Warm Weather and Cold Weather collections are now permanent means I can slowly save and invest in my favourite pieces over times. Yay! 

2 | MATERIAL | The Georgia midi dress I’m wearing is the Black Silk Crepe which is a muted black that can look anywhere from a true black to a deep navy to a charcoal grey depending on the light. This silk is easily one of the most beautiful fabrics I’ve ever worn.

Cut from a fluid, sand-washed silk crepe de chine that drapes and moves like liquid. Just subtly skimming the skin, it feels like butter on. Has a muted, ultra-soft finish, with a barely there sheen visible only with movement. This is an extremely high quality, medium-weight crepe that’s durable and opaque – meant to be worn, not coddled.*

In all of these photos I’m wearing this dress after it’s been machine washed and tumble dried without any ironing/steaming. I’ve ironed it before and it looks great but honestly, I like to keep it as low maintenance as possible. The un-ironed silk has a beautiful soft texture and I don’t mind that the seams get a bit crinkled but if you prefer super smooth and sleek, that can definitely be achieved through ironing.

3 | PRICE | $275 USD

4 | FIT | I’m wearing the OS. For reference I’m 5’7 and about 120 lbs and I typically wear a US 2/4.  The fit on this dress is very roomy but because the fabric has such beautiful drape and movement it doesn’t feel too voluminous or oversized. It moves with you and skims the body in a flattering way. I bought mine when there was only an OS option and I would buy this size again.

The neckline is wide and can either curve deeper in the back or front. I wear my normal bra underneath and just pull the straps slightly out on my shoulders so they’re well concealed. You could also wear a strapless bra if you prefer.

The only thing I might change about the fit of this dress is that when I’m walking my stride is confined by the width of the hem. Not such that I’m unable to walk but I do feel like I need to hold it up so I can take my usual big steps. Especially when I’m keeping up with my 6’4 fella! Just something to consider if you’re a long-legged lady.

MATERNITY: This is an awesome option for all you expecting ladies! My sister-in-law is expecting late this summer and looks incredible in this dress either worn loose or with a braided belt tied above the baby bump.

5 | WEAR | This dress has held up very well over the time I’ve had it and has weathered many a stain and endured long periods of time being crushed in the laundry hamper. Every time I wash it, it comes back to life, as good as new.

MOISTURE: Like any silk this one does show moisture so that’s something to take into consideration if you plan to wear it in a hot climate (ie: when you’ll sweat) or on a day when there is potential for rain. The water spots usually fade but I have had to wash it when it’s gotten particularly wet.

WRINKLES: Of course, silk wrinkles but I haven’t found this one particularly finicky. Especially because it’s a long dress it weighs itself down and they fall out when you’re standing. If you’re sitting for a long time or wearing a belt you will get creases where there was contact and body heat encourages wrinkling. But for the most part this isn’t a dress I worry about looking crumpled in as it usually stays smooth.

TRAVEL: I’ve brought this dress on several trips with me and while it travels ok, it does need a steam or iron once you take it out of the suitcase. So keep that in mind.

6 | CARE | It’s very easy to care for thanks to being machine washable and tumble dry tolerant. That’s what I do and I just make sure I pull it from the dryer as soon as possible and hang it up or it will get wrinkled.

7 | DURABILITY | This dress is highly durable and I the more often I wear the less precious I feel about the silk. The seams are extremely durable and since there is little pressure on them I never worry about moving around completely freely. Do watch out for your furry friends and their claws, because those would be unforgiving.

8 | OPTIONS | This exact style is also available in Mid Weight Linen (4 colours), Linen Gauze (2 greys) and Raw Silk (ivory and black). The same dress is also available in a shorter length in Silk Crepe, Midweight Linen, Linen Gauze and Raw Silk.

There is currently a production lead-time of 8-10 weeks on Elizabeth Suzann orders so keep that in mind when ordering. 

*Copy borrowed from the ES product page. 


ANY OTHER FIT OR WEAR QUESTIONS ON THE GEORGIA? LET ME KNOW IN THE COMMENTS.


LOOK 1 – EVENT READY


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This is one way I might style this dress for a more formal event like a wedding, engagement party or any number of other more dressy occasions. The beauty of this dress is that because it’s such a simplified shape it actually makes a statement. I let the dress be the star and augment it with equally minimal but striking elements like these cute block heeled mules, an envelope clutch in with lots of texture and pattern and a couple of carefully chosen gold accessories to elevate the look. In this case my favourite subtle detail is how the wood heel on my shoe and the brown tones in my clutch play off one another to soften the otherwise heavy black palette. A soft wave in the hair and a warm smokey eye also add to this in an easy but important way.

TRY THIS LOOK YOURSELF BY:

  • Starting with a simple, loose-fitting dress.
  • Add a pair of contemporary sandals to mimic the minimal dress shape.  
  • Pick an accessory that pairs well with a small detail (colour, material etc.) in the shoes or dress for a subtle element of continuity.
  • Add a few pieces of jewelry in the same metal (brass, gold, silver, rose gold) and keep them dispersed. Meaning, one necklace, one bangle and a set of stacking rings on the opposite hand.
  • Finish the look was a soft wave in your hair and a warm smokey eye!

Style Bee - 1 Items - 3 Ways - Georgia Midi Style Bee - 1 Items - 3 Ways - Georgia Midi Style Bee - 1 Items - 3 Ways - Georgia Midi

1 | GEORGIA MIDI | Elizabeth Suzann | $275 USD | Impeccably made to order in Nashville. | Wearing OS | Current lead time is 8-10 Weeks | Similar ethically made option available fast from Everlane $98 USD.

3 | ELIZABETH MULES | c/o Nisolo | $158 USD | Made ethically in Peru | Wearing size 36 typically a narrow US7 | The FUKO Sandal is a similar option in more sizes from L’Intervalle for $148 CAD, made responsibly in Spain. Receive 10% Off with ‘STYLEBEE10’ through July 31.

4 | NECKLACE | Young Frankk via Garmentory | $102 USD | Receive $20 OFF your first order when you sign up here.

5 | CLUTCH | c/o Primecut Bags | $85 USD | Receive $20 OFF your first order when you sign up here.

6 | BRACELET | c/o BIKO | $55 USD | Made in Toronto.

7 | RINGS | n/a but try this brand for a great minimalist selection.


LOOK 2 – OUT & ABOUT


Style Bee - 1 Items - 3 Ways - Georgia Midi

Style Bee - 1 Items - 3 Ways - Georgia Midi Style Bee - 1 Items - 3 Ways - Georgia Midi

This is one of my favourite looks to date because it brings together so many of my favourite pieces but also feels applicable for so many occasions. This is a great look for the weekend for sure but it’s totally ready for an afternoon of celebration at a baby or bridal shower. It’s a great option for a cool Summer evening strolling downtown or enjoying some cocktails on a patio. I’m really loving the palette on this one and how easily this duster pairs over top of this dress. Adding some warm neutrals through my straw hat and suede shoes also helps to pull it all together.

TRY THIS LOOK YOURSELF BY: 

  • Starting with a simple, loose-fitting dress.
  • Top the dress with a lightweight duster or longer length coat in a similar material and a different colour. 
  • Step into a pair of textured, sleek flats in a warm neutral.
  • Grab your favourite black bag and top it off with a wide-brimmed straw hat!

Style Bee - 1 Items - 3 Ways - Georgia Midi Style Bee - 1 Items - 3 Ways - Georgia Midi Style Bee - 1 Items - 3 Ways - Georgia Midi Style Bee - 1 Items - 3 Ways - Georgia Midi

1 | GEORGIA MIDI | Elizabeth Suzann | $275 USD | Impeccably made to order in Nashville. | Wearing OS | Current lead time is 8-10 Weeks | Similar ethically made option available fast from Everlane $98 USD.

2 | NOTCH COAT | s/o Ali Golden | Lots of other colour/fabric options available here. | Receive $20 OFF your first order when you sign up here.

3 | CLOU FLAT | L’Intervalle (size n/a linked to similar) | $138 USD | Made ethically in Spain | Wearing size 37 typically a narrow US7 | Receive 10% Off with ‘STYLEBEE10’ through July 31.

4 | HAT | s/o Janessa Leone | Linked to similar option. 

5 | ELOISE BAG | The Stowe | $387 CAD | Made in Canada.


LOOK 3 – BELTED


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Usually I prefer to wear this dress loose but sometimes my knot belt is just the perfect addition to make an otherwise blah look suddenly much more interesting. It always surprises me how well this dress and belt pair together, but I guess it shouldn’t since they were literally made to be together.

This look is another one that has a wide range of possibilities. I could totally wear this to a client meeting, a date night or a family dinner. It’s also great for a lunch with a girlfriend or even more upscale social outings like showers and engagement parties. Overall it feels very elegant and figure flattering without being fussy or showy in any way.

I love this minimal palette and how well these stoney grey suede flats pair with this muted black. These soft elements are toughened up with the leather belt and the rich pop of oxblood in my cross-body bag. When I put the belt on over this loose dress I didn’t think too hard about creases or how the folds were working out I just let the silk gather naturally and I love the result.

TRY THIS LOOK YOURSELF BY: 

  • Starting with a simple, loose-fitting dress.
  • Cinch the dress in at your natural waist with a wide leather or braided belt. The more minimal the better!
  • Don’t over think how the dress gathers when the belt is on. Just keep the seams at your sides (or wherever they’re meant to fall) and avoid too much bunching in one spot.
  • Slip into a cute pair of flats in a light neutral colour. Bonus points if they’re an interesting shape like a mule.
  • Grab a small bag in a rich colour to give the look a jolt of intensity.

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1 | GEORGIA MIDI | Elizabeth Suzann | $275 USD | Impeccably made to order in Nashville. | Wearing OS | Current lead time is 8-10 Weeks | Similar ethically made option available fast from Everlane $98 USD.

2 | KNOT BELT | Elizabeth Suzann | $75 USD | Made in Nashville | Wearing a size Small

3 | DAY MULES | c/o Everlane | $120 USD | Made ethically in Italy | Wearing size 7 typically a narrow US7 | The ABIELLE MULE is a similar option in light grey leather from L’Intervalle for $148 CAD, made responsibly in Spain. Receive 10% Off with ‘STYLEBEE10’ through July 31.

4 | BAG | Vintage | Similar responsibly made options available here and here.


BONUS LOOK 1


Style Bee - 1 Items - 3 Ways - Georgia Midi

Here’s another way I like to wear this dress! By pairing my wide cropped blank canvas tee over top it turns into a skirt. I love the muted black and olive green together but my flax linen Linn Tee also works great as a topper. I top the layers off with a bold but simple bib style pendant to reinforce the curved hem of the tee and dress and add some simple shoes and a bag with similar rich jewel tones (deep amber heel and oxblood bag).


Style Bee - 1 Items - 3 Ways - Georgia Midi

1 | GEORGIA MIDI | Elizabeth Suzann | $275 USD | Impeccably made to order in Nashville. | Wearing OS | Current lead time is 8-10 Weeks | Similar ethically made option available fast from Everlane $98 USD.

2 | BLANK CANVAS TOP | c/o Jamie + The Jones | $ 120 USD | Made in Nashville | Wearing a size S/M (similar to Small)

3 | ELIZABETH MULES | c/o Nisolo | $158 USD | Made ethically in Peru | Wearing size 36 typically a narrow US7 | The FUKO Sandal is a similar option in more sizes from L’Intervalle for $148 CAD, made responsibly in Spain. Receive 10% Off with ‘STYLEBEE10’ through July 31.

4 | NECKLACE | n/a | Linked to similar ethically made option by CLAUS.

5 | BAG | Vintage | Similar responsibly made options available here and here.


BONUS LOOK 2


Style Bee - 1 Items - 3 Ways - Georgia Midi

If I’m feeling like I need more structure with this dress I always reach for my linen boyfriend blazer. It adds an air of professionalism to the look without being too much of a stark contrast to the loose organic fit. Rolled cuffs help it stay low-key too. I slip into my pointed suede flats and grab my forest green Meena bag for an easy look that’s totally ready for a meeting or working lunch.


Style Bee - 1 Items - 3 Ways - Georgia Midi

1 | GEORGIA MIDI | Elizabeth Suzann | $275 USD | Impeccably made to order in Nashville. | Wearing OS | Current lead time is 8-10 Weeks | Similar ethically made option available fast from Everlane $98 USD.

2 | BLAZER | old Club Monaco | Linked to similar ethically made option by REFORMATION.

3 | CLOU FLAT | L’Intervalle (size n/a linked to similar) | $138 USD | Made ethically in Spain | Wearing size 37 typically a narrow US7 | Receive 10% Off with ‘STYLEBEE10’ through July 31.

4 | BAG | c/o Opelle Creative (colour n/a linked to olive) | $345 CAD | Made in Toronto.


SO TELL ME, IF YOU HAVE A GEORGIA MIDI, HOW DO YOU STYLE YOURS?

WHICH OF THESE LOOKS IS YOUR FAVOURITE?

ARE YOU INTO THESE 1 ITEM – 3 WAYS POSTS? CATCH THE FIRST INSTALMENT HERE.


WISHING YOU ALL A WONDERFUL WEEKEND! 


This post is not sponsored but contains affiliate links. When you shop via the links above I may make a small commission from a sale. This income helps limit the amount of sponsored content that appears on Style Bee. Thanks a lot for your support! 

20 comments
05.19.17
Outfits

Leave me a comment here!

  1. Patricia Kay says:

    Thank you for your “color-help”! Will be practicing for sure.
    In fact, have been doing it already! I had an old-fashioned coffee party yesterday in my home ( like my mom always had), for all my
    growing-up-years- girlfriends, and one of them said, ” you look wonderful! What is different?” And I replied with joy, ” I dressed for this lovely occasion!” ” I am re-inventing me in this new season with the help of “Lee the Bee!” I was beaming!
    And… I fell in love with your flowered dress in other post. Gorgeous on you?And love that you are sharing Lippy-hints/info! Going to order your colors! love wearing reds!
    Keep that dream—- some form will evolve?

  2. Linda says:

    I’m sad I just found your blog and Elizabeth Suzann! I’ve got an 18 day European trip coming up in July-August (with a cruise) and thus dress and a couple other items would have been perfect! Will rely on my EF standbys…

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Hey Linda, I’m glad you found your way here, even if the timing isn’t ideal 🙂 I’m sure you’ll have a wonderful time in Europe wearing your EF standbys and there might still be time to get a couple of ES pieces! xo

  3. So simple, so lovely, Lee! I adore ES and am currently awaiting the Marlena tank in back silk crepe. Silk is my favourite fabric…but it took me until last year to really start wearing it rather than “saving” it. Thanks for the continued inspiration!

  4. Eve says:

    Okay, I love love love look 3!! I also love the shape of the sleeves!

    I have wanted to try an ES item, but the cropped shirts aren’t my thing, a dress would work though. Now I’ll have to try and figure out if I would prefer the longer or shorter length (I am around 5’9″ and usually prefer dresses/skirts to hit at the knee). I’m a little worried about the shorter length being too short in the front though so many the longer length is better (would the dress be office appropriate?). I also am torn between the silk crepe and raw silk options. I know the raw silk would be more casual, but I am very intrigued by raw silk. Does anyone have the shorter version of this dress or the raw silk? I like the black and the navy for the silk crepe. I almost wish there were fewer options!

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Hi Eve! I know, the length dilemma is real! I have the raw silk Georgia in ivory (short version) which you can see here, here and here. Wearing the OS for reference. I don’t find it too short and I’m technically just under 5’8 and have a shorter than avg. torso. Hope that helps! I know what you mean about the options haha. xo

    • Eve says:

      Oh thank you! That does help. I think the shorter one would work for me even though I have a longer than average torso. I think I might go for the raw silk too. Does it wrinkle less? The ivory is really pretty too, I just don’t think I can pull off that much lightness. Looks very thick though!

  5. Patricia Kay says:

    Each one fabulous! As I am viewing each, and oooooing & awing, I am seeing pieces in my closet that I could use and pair up! Never been so excited to dress & “create” —for a long time! Thank YOU!?
    Question:you have given overviews/lesson tips so wonderful on how you choose the colors to combine, ( several of your amazing posts??), but could you remind me of how you do it… what you are thinking/processing when you do. Especially interested in the final outfit. Wonderful—green bag, cognac shoes, black , white. Love how you do that!!!? You are amazing.
    When is your “book” going to be written/published??? So wish! Xo

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Patricia your comments always make my day, thank you so much!!

      Honestly, I try not to overthink my colour choices and just follow my instincts. A basic formula for that final look is to start with a dark base, add a light top layer and then add a couple of neutral or earthy contrasting accessories. I hope that makes sense/helps! xo

      Haha Keep your fingers crossed on that book idea! Definitely a pie in the sky dream of mine 🙂

  6. Lo says:

    All of these are so pretty, and you look insanely tall in Look 2! That duster is magic.

  7. Tina says:

    Look 3 has my heart! And yes, I’m into the 1 item, three looks posts because it shows how versatile some items are.
    No, I don’t have a Georgia Midi dress but I have a similar dress (silk front and viscose back), it’s just way shorter, ending just above the knee. I’ve styled it as a mini dress with belt, with leggings, with skinny jeans and even front-tucked as a shirt. It is one of the most versatile items in my closet and I love it.

  8. Becky says:

    I recently received my Georgia Midi Dress in navy silk. I am planning on styling it very similarly to your outfil #1 for my daughter’s HS graduation. I was so excited to see this post today with so many other styling ideas! Thank you for being such a wonderful source of inspiration!

  9. Jessica says:

    Absolutely love these looks, particularly #3! It just has this effortless, confident vibe that says “put-together but still laidback”. Also love the Young Frankk necklace with look #1! These are all great and varied styling options, which is really cool to see with the Midi dress because they’re a bit different from the photos on the ES website.

    Have to say, your comments on things like moisture, wrinkles, travel, (and undergarments!) are SUPER appreciated and so helpful for those considering to buy. What a well-rounded review!

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Thanks so much Jessica! I’m really glad to hear those details are helpful, I just try to think of what I’d want to know before investing in anything. xo

  10. Jodie says:

    The weather was 85 and sunny here Wednesday, and Thursday! Today, and this weekend it’s still nice, at 70, and sunny.
    Hope you’re enjoying it! 🙂