Ready to add something special to your wardrobe? At Hollyblocks, we're big believers in being considered, conscious and careful in our purchases rather than chasing after the latest fast fashion trends. But we still love adding a gorgeous new garment to our collection from time to time!
If you're in the market for something that will make you feel fabulous without sacrificing the Earth, why not opt for a block print dress? The right ones are timeless, carefully crafted, high-quality and stylish without being faddy - what's not to like?!
To help you select the dress of your dreams, we've put together a few things to look out for. Here's what you should consider when buying a block print dress:
Who, what, where and how? Understanding the origins of your block print dress
While not every garment in your wardrobe will be sustainable slow fashion, you can ensure that new items you buy are ethically produced. When considering a new purchase, think about who might have made it, where and under what conditions. Check if there's a label inside the dress that lets you know where it was produced, the fabric composition, and other information that will help you trace its origins.
The dress manufacturer might have information on its website to help you understand how it was made (you can learn more about the Hollyblocks process here). More prominent brands might even be featured on the ethical clothing website goodonyou.eco, which ranks brands on ethical and sustainability factors.
Wondering how we produce our block print dresses at Hollyblocks? Read our blog on everything you need to know about block prints to understand the process better.
Summer, winter or spring? Styling tips to get more wear out of your dress
Ideally, your block print dress will take you from season to season, year to year. This will reduce cost-per-wear and help you tread more lightly with your fashion choices. To achieve this, you should look for a dress you can wear in different ways, styled to suit the season. For example, our Avebury Poppy Wrap dress is the perfect knee-length, flirty summer dress - but pair it with some tights, chunky socks, a roll-neck and a chic blazer, and you have a completely different look for autumn and winter.
Alternatively, try our gorgeous Hawthorn dress for a more autumnal style. The quilted fabric adds warmth and weight for chillier days while it's still floaty enough to be worn in warmer weather. Simply roll the sleeves up, add a pair of strappy sandals, and you're sailing into spring!
Looking for winter styling tips? Our blog will help you out.
How long will it last?
The quality of your block print dress - from the fabric to the finishes - will determine how long it will last. Learn how to spot high-quality materials; you'll get much more value from future purchases. Natural fibres like cotton, silk, linen and wool are all regarded as high-quality and long-lasting - just make sure you follow their care instructions.
Many cheaper fast fashion items are made from synthetic fibres like polyester. Not only is this fabric bad for the environment, it's also prone to pilling, tearing and generally wearing out quickly. When buying a new block print dress, you should also consider the dyes used in the printing process. You want them to stay bright and beautiful for a long time!
At Hollyblocks, our floral block print dresses are made with organic cotton and natural, non-toxic dyes. They're also designed to be loved now and in the future. That means beautiful designs and construction that will stand the test of time.
How does it make you feel?
When considering buying any new garment, ask yourself: How does it make me feel? While some clothing purchases will be completely functional and practical, others might be because they evoke certain feelings in you.
A vibrant winter coat might make you cheerful; a structured motorcycle jacket could make you feel confident; a floral block print dress might make you feel whimsical and free-spirited. Whatever the feeling, you should feel sure that you truly love the item before buying it. That way, you'll wear it more often, reducing your impact on the environment and getting more bang for your buck in the process. And you'll feel that feeling every time you put it on!
Find your favourite dress at Hollyblocks
Feel good about your purchase when you choose a block print dress made with love. Our range has something for everyone, from long-sleeve padded options to lightweight flouncy mini-dresses. We hope you love them as much as we do!