We saw it everywhere in 2016: embroidered pieces. Β From denim shorts and jackets, to dresses, even purses and shoes with embroidery emerged from the the depths of fashion designers’ minds! Β I have to admit, when the trend first started gaining popularity, I was a bit appalled. Β Embroidery to me was something outdated and reminded me of the cross-stitch work my mom tried to teach me as a child. Β It was a strange reminder of the 90’s, and I wasn’t sure I was on board. Β My first “test outfit” was a beautiful navy dress with unconventional embroidery along the bodice and in stripes through the skirt. Β I wasn’t opposed, and it quickly became my favorite dress of the summer.
Soon enough I was incorporating embroidery into my wardrobe in more ways than I originally planned. Β It was a great way to spice up the basic pieces, and it always offered colorful detail to my outfit. Β I was surprised when the trend continued strong into the colder months. Β With black taking over the majority of my winter closet, I shocked myself by orderingΒ Zaful‘s take on a classic LBD. Β When I opened up the package, I was initially unhappy with the larger size of the dress (I ordered a sizeΒ small and it looked more like it could fit three of me), but once I put it on, I realized that not only was it incredibly comfortable, but more flattering than I had first assumed. Β You also can’t beat the fabulous price of only $30!
SoonΒ after photographing this piece – outside the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, one of my favorite spots – I had a good laugh while browsing Instagram. Β I was obviously not the only fashion blogger with her eye on embroidery, because I have now seen at least seven other ladies style this piece beautifully, and in their own unique way! Β Yes, ladies and gentlemen, embroidered pieces are certainly not going anywhere in 2017! Β I can only imagine how many companies will be producing fashion products embroidered in Pantone’sΒ vibrant color of the year! Β Will you be wearing it?
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dress | heels | hair extensions
Lauren says
First- Love the VMFA π Also, this look is amazing on you! I’m always a fan of embroidered pieces and am happy that they are here to stay. Those heels are adorable and really compliment your look here!
Xx,
Lauren
Sharon Wu says
That dress looks divine on you! You always have the best style babe! xo, sharon
http://www.stylelullaby.com/beauty/transitioning-skin-care-routine-winter-skinfix/
Stephanie Whitman says
I can easily say the same to you! I’m constantly admiring your style, and looking for ways to replicate it π
Iliana says
Your dress, your hair, heels, you, I love it all! You look like a porcelain doll β€οΈ
Embroidered everything was also my obsession which I plan on keeping in 2017 π
Stephanie Whitman says
Ahhh you’re just the sweetest ever! I’m so glad you like it all so much. This was such a different style for me – but it’s definitely growing on me now haha! Here’s to a very embroidered new year π
Lauren says
First- Love the VMFA π Also, this look is amazing on you! I’m always a fan of embroidered pieces and am happy that they are here to stay. Those heels are adorable and really compliment your look here!
Xx,
Lauren
Stephanie Whitman says
Oh so do I! I’ve shot there so many times, but it really never gets old. There are so many beautiful spots around the museum – inside AND outside! Embroidery can be so much fun. I’m really glad I’ve learned that now π
Jo says
This is one of my all time favorite looks and photoshoots from you! Your dress, with those heels, and the red installation in the background is all perfection. I’m loving the embroidered look and am definitely looking to add some dark florals into my wardrobe!
xo, Jo
http://www.cutandchic.com
Stephanie Whitman says
Okay, this comment seriously made my entire day! Thank you so much for the generous compliments! You’re too kind! I’ll have to keep this in mind for future outfits and shoots!
Candace Hampton says
Embroidery is definitely one of my favorite trends and I’m so excited to see more of it this year! You styled that dress beautifully:)
http://www.thebeautybeau.com/
Stephanie Whitman says
I can definitely see how vibrant embroidery would be something you would love and rock 100%! I can’t wait to get inspired by your style this year!
Sharon Wu says
That dress looks divine on you! You always have the best style babe! xo, sharon
http://www.stylelullaby.com/beauty/transitioning-skin-care-routine-winter-skinfix/
Stephanie Whitman says
I can easily say the same to you! I’m constantly admiring your style, and looking for ways to replicate it π
Emily says
such a pretty dress! love the way you styled it
xo Emily
http://www.thehipsuburban.com
Leah Michelle says
Yay! I’m glad you’ve embraced embroidery. I think it’s timeless (as long as it’s not the super dated stuff from 80’s/90’s). You should see some of the things Abigail has embroidered by hand. It’s practically a lost art, and I’m so glad she’s keeping it alive.
Nataly says
That dress looks so pretty on you!
Stephanie Whitman says
Thank you so much! It’s seriously one of the comfiest dresses ever!
Jordan Chapman says
I swear I’m the last person to get an embroidered dress or top!! I’ve been dying to have something for months, maybe even a pair of jeans. I love what you’ve done with this dress, it looks adorable on you.
Jordan xx
http://www.thehatlogic.com
Meggan says
This look will be so perfect for spring/summer!
Stephanie Whitman says
I agree! It’s definitely something I can wear now since the base color is black, but the bright floral pattern will be super versatile in the warmer months of the year!
Makayla M. says
This dress looks amazing on you!! I love the pops of red π
Xo Makayla
Fashionably Kay
Stephanie Whitman says
So do I! I used to steer clear of reds and pinks, but now I’m working to embrace them wholeheartedly, and embroidery is one of the best ways to do that!
Mariann Yip says
Firstly, I am obsessed with your hair! The curls, color and length is just perfect on you π secondly, you are rocking that dress and print really well! It’s a very elegant and chic item that you can wear to multiple occasions.
Stephanie Whitman says
Aww thank you so much for the love on my hair. It’s been fun lately trying out so many different styles, whether it’s short and straight, short and curly, long and straight (with extensions), or long and curly! I’m getting so many ideas to use for different outfits! π
Emily says
such a pretty dress! love the way you styled it
xo Emily
http://www.thehipsuburban.com
Stephanie Whitman says
I’m really glad you like it! It’s such a fun statement dress, for sure. And comfy too!
Chloe says
This dress looks gorgeous on you! I’ve been seeing embroidery everywhere, now I’m definitely inspired to get something embroidered next, haha! π Love your tassel heels too, they’re so flirty and cute! They go so well with the dress!!
xo, Chloe // http://funinthecloset.com/dont-look-back/
Leah Michelle says
Yay! I’m glad you’ve embraced embroidery. I think it’s timeless (as long as it’s not the super dated stuff from 80’s/90’s). You should see some of the things Abigail has embroidered by hand. It’s practically a lost art, and I’m so glad she’s keeping it alive.
Stephanie Whitman says
Ah Leah, you have no idea how much it meant to me to see your comment! In the midst of everything you’re going through, you’re taking the time to compliment my outfit, and that means the absolute world. I would love to see what Abigail has embroidered. I’m sure it’s breathtaking!
Kusum says
So gorgeous love! I totally love this dress on you, such a statement maker! And can we talk about your hair extensions and heels, so darn amaze.
xx, Kusum | http://www.sveeteskapes.com
Stephanie Whitman says
You’re too sweet! Thank you so much for all the kind words!
Jordan Chapman says
I swear I’m the last person to get an embroidered dress or top!! I’ve been dying to have something for months, maybe even a pair of jeans. I love what you’ve done with this dress, it looks adorable on you.
Jordan xx
http://www.thehatlogic.com
Stephanie Whitman says
Haha and I felt like I was the last person! Guess I’m not alone on this one! I think that the denim with embroidery is such a cool idea – you would totally rock a pair of embroidered pants!
Chloe says
This dress looks gorgeous on you! I’ve been seeing embroidery everywhere, now I’m definitely inspired to get something embroidered next, haha! π Love your tassel heels too, they’re so flirty and cute! They go so well with the dress!!
xo, Chloe // http://funinthecloset.com/dont-look-back/
Stephanie Whitman says
Hehe embroidery is the way to go right now, apparently, and I think I’m finally on board with it!
Atsuna Matsui says
Yess the floral embroidery on this black dress looks amazing on you. I think this dress pairs beautifully with the red heels you’re wearing here.
http://www.atsunamatsui.com
Thomas Falkenstedt says
There is something so immensely lovable about embroidered pieces and what you ordered from Zaful just goes to show that it doesn’t have to cost a million bucks (thinking Gucci, LV and other brands here) to look as good as you do! π
xoxo
Thomas
http://thomasfalkenstedt.com
Lauren Morgan says
I LOVE the embroidered trend. Seriously can’t get enough!! You styled this piece so well.
XO, Lauren
http://www.aloprofile.com/
Stephanie Whitman says
Oooh then this dress was absolutely made for you!
Greta says
Obsessed with this dress and sassy red shoes. I’ve seen a similar dress of ChicWish and think I need to get it!
Greta | http://www.gretahollar.com
Stephanie Whitman says
I’ve been seeing this particular dress everywhere lately! I’d love to see how you would style it π
Christine Kong says
I totally felt the same about embroidery as you – that it was a thing of the past. But i love seeing it and I don’t think the trend will go away anytime soon. That being said this dress is gorgeous. I love that the embroidery is against black which makes it stand out even more. Although the dress is more oversized it goes perfectly well with those red heels and your gorgeous hair. It’s definitely a winner! Xoxo, Christine
http://dailykongfidence.com/
Atsuna Matsui says
Yess the floral embroidery on this black dress looks amazing on you. I think this dress pairs beautifully with the red heels you’re wearing here.
http://www.atsunamatsui.com
Stephanie Whitman says
Red has been on repeat for me lately, so I was thrilled to make it the vibrant detail color in this post!
Jenn Hanft says
The embroidery seriously upped the ante when it comes to lbd’s. I love how you paired this dress with bright red TASSELLED heels. They totally scream chic. It contrasts soooo well with the art behind you! Sadly I don’t own anything embroidered but I definitely plan to get some for 2017 to keep the trend alive and well. I’ve been seriously loving how embroidery touched denim jackets, bombers, jeans, loafers, t-shirts, and dresses. Total classy statement!
XO Jenn
https://jennsemble.com/
Stephanie Whitman says
Oh my gosh I definitely agree! I mean, a classic LBD is always a good idea, but then add this kind of beautiful detailing and it’s just on another level! I was so excited to have an opportunity to wear these heels. I hadn’t pulled them out since summer, but they definitely paired perfectly with this dress! I can’t wait to see how you’ll rock embroidery this year!
Thomas Falkenstedt says
There is something so immensely lovable about embroidered pieces and what you ordered from Zaful just goes to show that it doesn’t have to cost a million bucks (thinking Gucci, LV and other brands here) to look as good as you do! π
xoxo
Thomas
http://thomasfalkenstedt.com
Stephanie Whitman says
Aww thank you so much for that compliment. I definitely believe that fashion can be affordable. The only “designer” item I own is a Michael Kors watch, and I’m not mad about it. So many of the pieces I’ve purchased over the last few years have been just as high-quality and beautiful as those giant name brands (with the giant price tag)!
Sandy a la Mode says
wow those blooms are amazing!!!
xo,
Sandy
Sandy a la Mode
Stephanie Whitman says
I’m so glad that you like them π
Christine Kong says
I totally felt the same about embroidery as you – that it was a thing of the past. But i love seeing it and I don’t think the trend will go away anytime soon. That being said this dress is gorgeous. I love that the embroidery is against black which makes it stand out even more. Although the dress is more oversized it goes perfectly well with those red heels and your gorgeous hair. It’s definitely a winner! Xoxo, Christine
http://dailykongfidence.com/
Stephanie Whitman says
Isn’t it strange how trends go full circle? What I wore when I was a little girl is now a hugely popular trend while I’m an adult! I’m sure it’s even more strange for my parents who have seen their high school pieces go in and out more than once in their life! My mom constantly says how she wishes she kept her childhood clothing, because I would be wearing it all now! The best thing about this embroidered, oversized dress isn’t even the color, but the comfort! The larger size makes it incredibly cozy and great for anything from a casual day out in sneakers to a date night with statement heels! π
Brandon Ramson says
Awesome post my love. you look amazing as usual
Steph says
Love this dress on you! You look stunning!
xO -Steph
http://www.UrbanBlonde.com
Brandon Ramson says
Awesome post my love. you look amazing as usual
Stephanie Whitman says
You always know how to make me smile. Thank you, baby! β€οΈ
Josie says
Why always so perfect girl lol ?! This dress is absolutely lovely!
Obsessed with this dress and you are so right, the embroidered trend is not going anywhere! I have a floral embroidered jeans I want to get! The temptation is so big haha
Bisous, Josie
http://www.petiteandbold.com
Morgan Klein says
This dress is so gorgeous! I love all of the details on it and these red shoes just make this whole look even more perfect!
Stephanie Whitman says
I think that adding these heels transformed the entire look! There’s just something about a red, strappy shoe!
Steph says
Love this dress on you! You look stunning!
xO -Steph
http://www.UrbanBlonde.com
Stephanie Whitman says
Thank you so much, Steph!
marcy says
Such a beautiful embroidery dress babe!! Love the look head to toe even your hair is perfect!
xo
Marcy
Stephanie Whitman says
Aww you’re far too kind. I really appreciate your compliments!
Josie says
Why always so perfect girl lol ?! This dress is absolutely lovely!
Obsessed with this dress and you are so right, the embroidered trend is not going anywhere! I have a floral embroidered jeans I want to get! The temptation is so big haha
Bisous, Josie
http://www.petiteandbold.com
Stephanie Whitman says
Oh gosh, I’m far from perfect haha! You’re really too sweet! β€οΈ I’m so glad that you like the dress. I’m excited to continue wearing it into spring and summer. I gotta get my hands on a pair of embroidered denim!
Linh Dao says
I just love how you wore this piece and plus the red pops out to me so much and you know me and red lol I have a bit of an obsession and I also love embroidered, anything that has it! It remind me of Asia for some reason, maybe because growing up in Asia, I’ve seen it around so often! Can’t wait to see more from you!
Linh
http://www.xcapewithlinh.com
Bryanna says
I am a huge sucker for all things embroidered. I actually saw you post this dress on Instagram earlier this week and was so pumped for this post to go live! On another note, I’m actually extremely surprised by the Pantone Color of the year for 2017. We will see how it transitions!
xoxo Bryanna | Coming in Clutch
Stephanie Whitman says
It’s really awesome to hear that you were looking forward to this specific post. That’s super encouraging! π Thanks for reading along! Haha I was pretty shocked over the Pantone color as well. Maybe it’ll end up being spectacular. Who knows!
Amanda says
Your dress and shoes make the PERFECT pair!
XO Strawberry Chic
Stephanie Whitman says
Ah I’m so glad you think so. I was thrilled to have an excuse to wear these red heels – they brought out the details in the dress brilliantly! π
Miki says
Cute dress! You look beautiful. I have the one from ZARA from July and still wear it regularly. π It’s a pretty one and such a steal from Zaful compared to what I paid last season. Pantone colors always have me on the fence. I love them some years and others I don’t. They only really last a year so I’m not always on board. 😂
Xo,
Miki
http://mikialamode.com
Linh Dao says
I just love how you wore this piece and plus the red pops out to me so much and you know me and red lol I have a bit of an obsession and I also love embroidered, anything that has it! It remind me of Asia for some reason, maybe because growing up in Asia, I’ve seen it around so often! Can’t wait to see more from you!
Linh
http://www.xcapewithlinh.com
Danielle says
Remember when we were so skeptical about Pantone’s Color of the Year? Well, this is the absolute perfect example of adding it into a piece in a subtle way, and I love everything about it! This dress is so different from what I’d normally wear, yet I’m so drawn to it! It might have to be making its way into my closet very soon, haha.
xx, Danielle | Pineapple & Prosecco
Miki says
Cute dress! You look beautiful. I have the one from ZARA from July and still wear it regularly. π It’s a pretty one and such a steal from Zaful compared to what I paid last season. Pantone colors always have me on the fence. I love them some years and others I don’t. They only really last a year so I’m not always on board. π
Xo,
Miki
http://mikialamode.com
Samantha Mariko says
stephanie, you look so stunning in this embroidered number!! and it looks so darling paired with the red tasseled heels π I always love your selection of dresses!
http://www.samanthamariko.com
Yasmin says
I’ve seen this dress on Instagram and I love the way you in particular look in it. From head to toe, you really elevated the dress. And Donna took some amazing photos of you. Totally agree with you – at first I wasn’t sure what I thought about the embroidery trend, but now I’m so into it. Lots of love!
xx Yasmin
http://banglesandbungalows.com
gracie says
Love the embroidered dress ! I love the trend and all the detail. The shoes look great too. You look fabulous as always!
xx,gracie
snappedbygracie.com
francesca says
I love the whole embroidered trend!! It’s seriously my fave! You look gorgeous here
francesca
Frank Vinyl : A California Fashion Blog
francesca says
I love the whole embroidered trend!! It’s seriously my fave! You look gorgeous here
francesca
Frank Vinyl : A California Fashion Blog
Lucy Hernandez says
I have been seeing this luttoe dress everywhere, adorable! Love how you styled it with the fringe heel, super fun!
Xo
Laurelle says
Too funny, I was actually looking at this dress for a collab I have coming up with them! Embroidery really is in! I love how you styled it here! It’s gorgeous!
-Laurelle
http://www.bellebylaurelle.com
Laurelle says
Too funny, I was actually looking at this dress for a collab I have coming up with them! Embroidery really is in! I love how you styled it here! It’s gorgeous!
-Laurelle
http://www.bellebylaurelle.com
Nina says
Im in love with that hair color on you girl! You’re rocking it!
Xo, Nina
Law of Fashion Blog
Deddeh Howard says
You’re so beautiful from your skin to your hair! Everything looks amazing on you. Love your outfit.
Lee Anne says
I personally love this trend! This dress is simply gorgeous, and I adore your shoes!
XO
Lee Anne
http://www.lifebylee.com
Iliana says
Your dress, your hair, heels, you, I love it all! You look like a porcelain doll ❤️
Embroidered everything was also my obsession which I plan on keeping in 2017 😊
Stephanie Whitman says
Ahhh you’re just the sweetest ever! I’m so glad you like it all so much. This was such a different style for me – but it’s definitely growing on me now haha! Here’s to a very embroidered new year π
marcy says
Such a beautiful embroidery dress babe!! Love the look head to toe even your hair is perfect!
xo
Marcy
Bryanna says
I am a huge sucker for all things embroidered. I actually saw you post this dress on Instagram earlier this week and was so pumped for this post to go live! On another note, I’m actually extremely surprised by the Pantone Color of the year for 2017. We will see how it transitions!
xoxo Bryanna | Coming in Clutch
Yasmin says
I’ve seen this dress on Instagram and I love the way you in particular look in it. From head to toe, you really elevated the dress. And Donna took some amazing photos of you. Totally agree with you – at first I wasn’t sure what I thought about the embroidery trend, but now I’m so into it. Lots of love!
xx Yasmin
http://banglesandbungalows.com
Danielle says
Remember when we were so skeptical about Pantone’s Color of the Year? Well, this is the absolute perfect example of adding it into a piece in a subtle way, and I love everything about it! This dress is so different from what I’d normally wear, yet I’m so drawn to it! It might have to be making its way into my closet very soon, haha.
xx, Danielle | Pineapple & Prosecco
Kusum says
So gorgeous love! I totally love this dress on you, such a statement maker! And can we talk about your hair extensions and heels, so darn amaze.
xx, Kusum | http://www.sveeteskapes.com
Meggan says
This look will be so perfect for spring/summer!
Stephanie Whitman says
I agree! It’s definitely something I can wear now since the base color is black, but the bright floral pattern will be super versatile in the warmer months of the year!
Nataly says
That dress looks so pretty on you!
Stephanie Whitman says
Thank you so much! It’s seriously one of the comfiest dresses ever!
Makayla M. says
This dress looks amazing on you!! I love the pops of red π
Xo Makayla
Fashionably Kay
Stephanie Whitman says
So do I! I used to steer clear of reds and pinks, but now I’m working to embrace them wholeheartedly, and embroidery is one of the best ways to do that!
Jo says
This is one of my all time favorite looks and photoshoots from you! Your dress, with those heels, and the red installation in the background is all perfection. I’m loving the embroidered look and am definitely looking to add some dark florals into my wardrobe!
xo, Jo
http://www.cutandchic.com
Candace Hampton says
Embroidery is definitely one of my favorite trends and I’m so excited to see more of it this year! You styled that dress beautifully:)
http://www.thebeautybeau.com/