Handsome, hardworking dresses for the cooler weather.

Vaguelyclassical · 2026-10-18T16:21:37+00:00

I'd love to diversify my cool weather wardrobe a little. I*'m looking for dresses that hit mid calf or a bit lower but are not full length (this is non-negotiable)*; I'm a little busty so variations on v necks or bodices with buttons you can unbutton are best. Long sleeves or 3/4 length sleeves; these would be day dresses. *Very very strongly prefer a gentle A line that isn't interrupted by a waist seam*. Size 14, but tallish with the weight spread reasonably evenly. Autumn/winter weight, please. (I fantasize about the perfect needlecord dress.) Can't wear yellow/orange/brown/lime green/olive drab colours. *Strong blues, teal, dark green, dark red, dark purple, and even black especially welcome!* And I'd love to pay less than £150 (per dress, that is!). (Not asking a lot, am I? 🙂) Suggestions?

Arlanymor · 18/10/2026 17:25

I guess you mean hardwearing, rather than hardworking! This is lovely and the green is reduced: https://www.nobodyschild.com/products/riley-cord-shirred-waist-midi-dress-2613631009?_gl=1uxhodi_upMQ.._gs*MQ..&gclid=CjwKCAjw3NHWBhANEiwAtpwId1zwYKjemgSTCf-0A2xhbOGblHmAcloiQjNomP9xfaxZoY2ig5wKRxoCZhEQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds&gbraid=0AAAAADQCJIVN0AVcZSR5yO4TDZElueMqw

Original poster

Vaguelyclassical · 18/10/2026 17:30

Arlanymor · 18/10/2026 17:25

I guess you mean hardwearing, rather than hardworking! This is lovely and the green is reduced: https://www.nobodyschild.com/products/riley-cord-shirred-waist-midi-dress-2613631009?_gl=1uxhodi_upMQ.._gs*MQ..&gclid=CjwKCAjw3NHWBhANEiwAtpwId1zwYKjemgSTCf-0A2xhbOGblHmAcloiQjNomP9xfaxZoY2ig5wKRxoCZhEQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds&gbraid=0AAAAADQCJIVN0AVcZSR5yO4TDZElueMqw

Edited

Actually, I absolutely meant hardworking; I would work the right ones very hard indeed! But thank you for the suggestion.

OP posts:

Arlanymor · 18/10/2026 17:53

Vaguelyclassical · 18/10/2026 17:30

Actually, I absolutely meant hardworking; I would work the right ones very hard indeed! But thank you for the suggestion.

Show quote history

You're welcome!

Torchout · 18/10/2026 17:55

I really like this and I'm busty too. Love the colour .
https://www.marksandspencer.com/pure-cotton-cord-checked-midi-waisted-dress/p/clp23095174?extid=ps_ps-gen_ggl_ngs_ch_dressesandskirts_-UK-_-_modernsearch&cq_src=google_ads&cq_cmp=22829958653&cq_con=185979959474&cq_term=midi%20dresses&cq_med=&cq_plac=&cq_net=g&cq_plt=gp&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22829958653&gbraid=0AAAAAD7g6bQJK5jvzI58KBpz-kf8VTK72&gclid=CjwKCAjw3NHWBhANEiwAtpwId2A6fu0zhjen4v7F_MdX-eK2RLvesEBAzHKoRDwLuzj1BYO33o2kwBoCigIQAvD_BwE

Pure Cotton Cord Checked Midi Waisted Dress by Seasalt Cornwall at M&S

Bring a traditional touch to your wardrobe with this pure cotton corduroy dress from Seasalt Cornwall. This long-sleeved piece has a waisted silhouette, complete with a gently gathered midi-length skirt for a flattering flared design. The bodice featur...

https://www.marksandspencer.com/pure-cotton-cord-checked-midi-waisted-dress/p/clp23095174?cq_cmp=22829958653&cq_con=185979959474&cq_med=&cq_net=g&cq_plac=&cq_plt=gp&cq_src=google_ads&cq_term=midi+dresses&extid=ps_ps-gen_ggl_ngs_ch_dressesandskirts_-_UK_-_-_modernsearch&gad_campaignid=22829958653&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAD7g6bQJK5jvzI58KBpz-kf8VTK72&gclid=CjwKCAjw3NHWBhANEiwAtpwId2A6fu0zhjen4v7F_MdX-eK2RLvesEBAzHKoRDwLuzj1BYO33o2kwBoCigIQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

Starch1e · 18/10/2026 22:11

There's a discontinued Seasalt needlecord dress called the Clove Hitch that might meet your requirements: mid-calf, 3/4 sleeves, shirt collar and buttons top to waist. And pockets! It does have a waist seam & tie though.

Often available good quality on eBay and Vinted for ~£25-35. I've seen at least four patterns, all navy or black background with part of the pattern in a lighter colour. Sizing possibly a bit small compared to e.g. M&S or White Stuff. E.g.: https://ebay.io/m/2AtBug

BandyUrnham · 18/10/2026 22:24

Handsome is an odd adjective to use for a dress. I'd go for a shirtwaister or pinafore in plain needlecord or twill in a fairly neutral colour. Try WOMEN'S DRESSES - Community Clothing, Toast, Finisterre, etc.
Don't rule out high street shops.

justasking111 · 18/10/2026 23:26

Arlanymor · 18/10/2026 17:25

I guess you mean hardwearing, rather than hardworking! This is lovely and the green is reduced: https://www.nobodyschild.com/products/riley-cord-shirred-waist-midi-dress-2613631009?_gl=1uxhodi_upMQ.._gs*MQ..&gclid=CjwKCAjw3NHWBhANEiwAtpwId1zwYKjemgSTCf-0A2xhbOGblHmAcloiQjNomP9xfaxZoY2ig5wKRxoCZhEQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds&gbraid=0AAAAADQCJIVN0AVcZSR5yO4TDZElueMqw

Edited

Thanks. I've just bought it for my daughter in law. They do petite 👏👍

justasking111 · 18/10/2026 23:32

"Seasalt Rosina Dress Paint Texture Raincloud | Harts of Stur" https://www.hartsofstur.com/seasalt-rosina-dress-paint-texture-raincloud-bwm4129639322.html?utm_source=kelkoouk&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=kelkooclick&utm_source_platform=KelkooGroup&kgclid=CjwKCAjw3NHWBhANEiwAtpwId4uEk8JuOlGzhnRvDG7gczbMQG0HzLMTFbsa8EWQq564Ku0DoHDCbhoCl0YQAvD_BwE

Seasalt Rosina Dress Paint Texture Raincloud

Relaxed waist,Buttoned cuffs,Button fastening

https://www.hartsofstur.com/seasalt-rosina-dress-paint-texture-raincloud-bwm4129639322.html?kgclid=CjwKCAjw3NHWBhANEiwAtpwId4uEk8JuOlGzhnRvDG7gczbMQG0HzLMTFbsa8EWQq564Ku0DoHDCbhoCl0YQAvD_BwE

EleanorMc67 · 19/10/2026 04:53

This may tick most of your boxes? Just a tiny bit over budget, but lovely colours?

https://www.katebarton.co.uk/products/the-easy-winter-dress-copy?variant=55642400883064&country=GB&currency=GBP&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22712253293&gclid=CjwKCAjw3NHWBhANEiwAtpwId3SQeONcPuY5EV0242A7aDOn5JHzN_upLrSJhsXGXL6FRWI6HtvnJxoC63gQAvD_BwE

Handsome, hardworking dresses for the cooler weather.

EleanorMc67 · 19/10/2026 04:57

Or, as you did say strong blues ...!!

https://www.monsoon.co.uk/east-mahi-tie-corduroy-midi-dress-blue-1000849420.html?nbt=nb%3Aadwords%3Ag%3A23258752757%3A188269307229%3A783840540841&nb_adtype=pla&nb_kwd=&nb_ti=pla-328976595787&nb_mi=12198991&nb_pc=online&nb_pi=1000849420&nb_ppi=328976595787&nb_placement=&nb_li_ms=&nb_lp_ms=&nb_fii=&nb_ap=&nb_mt=&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23258752757&gclid=CjwKCAjw3NHWBhANEiwAtpwIdzGTvpgPXZnFofyb1vBKhkWoWBVJKHGXMMxazp1pVQ3dAUS-e6U7CRoCCgoQAvD_BwE

East Mahi Tie Corduroy Midi Dress Blue

https://www.monsoon.co.uk/east-mahi-tie-corduroy-midi-dress-blue-1000849420.html?gad_campaignid=23258752757&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw3NHWBhANEiwAtpwIdzGTvpgPXZnFofyb1vBKhkWoWBVJKHGXMMxazp1pVQ3dAUS-e6U7CRoCCgoQAvD_BwE&nb_adtype=pla&nb_ap=&nb_fii=&nb_kwd=&nb_li_ms=&nb_lp_ms=&nb_mi=12198991&nb_mt=&nb_pc=online&nb_pi=1000849420&nb_placement=&nb_ppi=328976595787&nb_ti=pla-328976595787&nbt=nb%3Aadwords%3Ag%3A23258752757%3A188269307229%3A783840540841

EleanorMc67 · 19/10/2026 05:01

This, I wouldn't describe as waisted as such, as the dress doesn't go in - more of a pleat detail?

https://www.masai.co.uk/dresses/nynisla-shirt-dress/1012730-5327S-XXL.html?pi=3&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Masai%20UK&utm_term=1012730-5327S-XXL&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21151407819&gclid=CjwKCAjw3NHWBhANEiwAtpwId4WvSzJbuNKb9oYoRlB5rXPEDH4bEQJjVu-bf4ZmPYiv1cwbphvaoRoCoJgQAvD_BwE

RiverRed · 19/10/2026 05:31

How about this: www.baukjen.com/products/mariposa-ponte-midi-dress-classic-navy?country=GB&tmsrc=googlead&tmcid=24273680855&tmsid=&tmid=&tmkw=&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=24268207587&gbraid=0AAAAACrTFAQ3nvSw4oRz8r8GCldzBqQfW&gclid=CjwKCAjw3NHWBhANEiwAtpwId4tS0Hvp_PRMO8u1kktMivEM7yVT14-b2WOyDuZF6qOKc8WJ9ACcwRoCeeMQAvD_BwE

Jellycatspyjamas · 19/10/2026 07:01

Arlanymor · 18/10/2026 17:25

I guess you mean hardwearing, rather than hardworking! This is lovely and the green is reduced: https://www.nobodyschild.com/products/riley-cord-shirred-waist-midi-dress-2613631009?_gl=1uxhodi_upMQ.._gs*MQ..&gclid=CjwKCAjw3NHWBhANEiwAtpwId1zwYKjemgSTCf-0A2xhbOGblHmAcloiQjNomP9xfaxZoY2ig5wKRxoCZhEQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds&gbraid=0AAAAADQCJIVN0AVcZSR5yO4TDZElueMqw

Edited

Thanks for this, it’s exactly what I’ve been looking for - an early morning purchase for me.

ILoveKits · 19/10/2026 07:01

RiverRed · 19/10/2026 05:31

How about this: www.baukjen.com/products/mariposa-ponte-midi-dress-classic-navy?country=GB&tmsrc=googlead&tmcid=24273680855&tmsid=&tmid=&tmkw=&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=24268207587&gbraid=0AAAAACrTFAQ3nvSw4oRz8r8GCldzBqQfW&gclid=CjwKCAjw3NHWBhANEiwAtpwId4tS0Hvp_PRMO8u1kktMivEM7yVT14-b2WOyDuZF6qOKc8WJ9ACcwRoCeeMQAvD_BwE

That's fabulous. Ordered.
Thank you.

Nosdacariad · 19/10/2026 07:55

Hey OP I hope you find some delicious frocks. I got a few posts in and realised twice your perfect English had been critiqued. Interesting 😱

Busty here 😁 and I LOVE boden Anna dresses and their variants. Might not be warm enough for right now.

Melancholyflower · 19/10/2026 08:09

Nosdacariad · 19/10/2026 07:55

Hey OP I hope you find some delicious frocks. I got a few posts in and realised twice your perfect English had been critiqued. Interesting 😱

Busty here 😁 and I LOVE boden Anna dresses and their variants. Might not be warm enough for right now.

Edited

I don't think her use of English has been critiqued, but the OP has used adjectives that would not usually be applied to dresses, so people may have been unsure of what the OP is actually looking for i.e. what makes a dress handsome?

BindweedIsMyNemesis · 19/10/2026 08:19

I think I know what OP means - a 'handsome' dress in my mind is quite different to a 'pretty' dress. And as the weather cools down I'm also keen on handsome/hard working and warm. Sort of your 'good honest autumn dress with none of those pointless fripperies' vibe.

FlowerBin · 19/10/2026 08:30

I have seen fashion articles frequently refer to clothing items as ‘hardworking’! It means that you will get lots of use out of them, they are flexible for different occasions etc.

FlowerBin · 19/10/2026 08:31

And I would imagine handsome as block-coloured, not flowery or twee in any way. I love different adjectives, the more varied the better!

BandyUrnham · 19/10/2026 10:13

@FlowerBin , You might love different adjectives but in this context words like handsome and delicious don't really help.

@Nosdacariad , I wasn't critiquing the OP's use of English. The English isn't perfect but it's pretty good.

Holidaymodeon · 19/10/2026 10:50

BindweedIsMyNemesis · 19/10/2026 08:19

I think I know what OP means - a 'handsome' dress in my mind is quite different to a 'pretty' dress. And as the weather cools down I'm also keen on handsome/hard working and warm. Sort of your 'good honest autumn dress with none of those pointless fripperies' vibe.

I’m keen on handsome, hardworking and warm. add in honest , loyal and faithful and I’m all in

IamwhoIsayIam · 19/10/2026 10:53

BandyUrnham · 19/10/2026 10:13

@FlowerBin , You might love different adjectives but in this context words like handsome and delicious don't really help.

@Nosdacariad , I wasn't critiquing the OP's use of English. The English isn't perfect but it's pretty good.

You might care to look at both the current and historic uses of the word handsome from the OED https://www.oed.com/dictionary/handsome_adj?tl=true

adjective: Of a thing: having an attractive form or appearance; well-proportioned; elegant, stylish.

Also (historical now obsolete but absolutely appropriate here) Of a person's appearance or clothing: suitable, fitting; seemly, decent; (of a person) seemly in appearance.

handsome, adj., adv., & n. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary

handsome, adj., adv., & n. meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary

https://www.oed.com/dictionary/handsome_adj?tl=true

BandyUrnham · 19/10/2026 11:03

@IamwhoIsayIam , I don't need to look it up. All I said was that it was an odd choice of adjective in this context.

Blueberrywild · 19/10/2026 11:09

BandyUrnham · 19/10/2026 11:03

@IamwhoIsayIam , I don't need to look it up. All I said was that it was an odd choice of adjective in this context.

Except it’s not.
I daresay OP’s English is better than yours @BandyUrnham.
Anyway, this is off the point.
I’m looking for a similar style dress so following with interest.

BandyUrnham · 19/10/2026 11:14

@Blueberrywild , I doubt it.