Top editor-tested dresses from Reformation
Ranking best-selling dresses from the sustainable fashion house
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I’ve been singing praises for Reformation for many years. The brand launched in L.A. in 2009 and quickly became a leader in sustainable fashion, in an industry otherwise synonymous with consumption and waste. Reformation’s commitment to circularity and well-above-average quality continually keeps me coming back.
Reformation is a sustainable fashion brand, so don’t expect fast fashion prices. The pieces I’ve invested in will last me a lifetime and all come with a timeless appeal that is difficult to find. I’ve tested (and loved) many styles from the brand, and with wedding season still upon us, I set my sights on dresses.
Made with materials using transparent manufacturing and production practices, each of these dresses impressed me (and those around me), and I felt like a giddy schoolgirl when people would stop me and ask, “Is that from Reformation?” with an approving look. The brand has introduced accessible sizing, with many pieces ranging from size 0 to 24.
Below I rank five top-selling dresses from favourite to least favourite. Spoiler: I loved them all and had a hard time ranking them. I paired each dress with Reformation’s Bethany Ballet Flat in black mesh — it’s an all-arounder that is comfortable yet delicate, feminine and sexy, and pairs well with anything and everything in your closet.
Since sizing and stock can fluctuate, I’ve included untested alternatives that look just as lovely. For reference, all the dresses below fit true to size, and I’m wearing a size 8.
Ranking the best-selling dresses from Reformation
Details on my Reformation dress rankings
Lela Dress
Why it’s my favourite: Come on — look at it! Pretty close to perfection if you ask me. I wore this dress to a wedding and was flooded with compliments on the pattern, the cut and how flattering it fit. I opted for the Sagittarius colourway, and I love how the delicate flower pattern brightens my favourite colour — black. The bodice fits like a glove, with a zipper surrounded by ruching to stretch with you throughout the day or night. The A-Line skirt allows for stress-free buffet consumption, and the heart-shaped neckline flattered my mostly non-existent chest.
Price: $348
Material: 100% viscose
Sizes: 0-12 (sizes 14-24 here)
Rating: 10/10
Alternative: Katara Dress (similar neckline, straps, skirt)
Shyla Dress
Why it’s my second favourite: I first fell in love with the Moon Dot print, followed quickly by the sleeves of the dress. There are times when I want my shoulders covered, and the sleeve adds year-round appeal. The dress has a timeless, classic silhouette with gorgeous detailing along the neckline. The material is a lightweight crepe fabric that drapes along the body. Like the Lela above, the back of the dress has a zip surrounded by stretchy ruching, which makes the dress comfortable and allows for some weight gain or loss.
Price: $348
Material: 53% viscose, 47% Lenzing Ecovero viscose
Sizes: 0-12
Rating: 10/10
Alternative: Naira Dress (similar sleeves and polka dot pattern)
Balia Linen Dress
Why it’s my third favourite: This 100 per cent linen dress in Swan Stripe is the epitome of summer cool. The fitted bodice is quite corset-like, with a billowy full skirt that will flatter every body type. It’s available in a wide range of colours, patterns and sizes from 0 Petite up to 24. It’s lined and the fabric is quite thick and weighty, yet I didn’t overheat thanks to the breathable linen. The dress is complete with the same back smocking as the above dresses, adjustable straps and large pockets for cards or a phone. This dress fits on the larger side, so size down if you find yourself in between sizes or want a more fitted look.
Price: $199 (Swan Stripe currently on sale from $398)
Material: 100% linen
Sizes: 0-12 (additional Petites and 14-24 available in other colourways)
Rating: 9/10
Alternative:Everett Linen Dress (similar material, straps, neckline, bodice)
Ceba Dress
Why it’s my fourth favourite: Become an ethereal goddess in this ultra flowy gown that sweeps the floor (I’d suggest a heel for this one). The relaxed fit and empire waist make it versatile and universally flattering. The colourway’s name “Moss” doesn’t do it justice — it’s a soft, sage green. One thing to note: if you swear by shapewear, the back goes very low, so plan to leave your high-waisted shaper shorts at home — you won’t need them. The dress is currently waitlist only, but it will be coming back in stock soon, so keep your eyes peeled. If you’re looking for something for an event and don’t want to wait, try the Maribelle alternative below, which falls with a similar relaxed flow.
Price: $498
Material:100% polyester
Sizes: 0-12
Rating: 9/10
Alternative: Maribelle Dress (similar flowy structure)
Perlette Dress
Why it’s my fifth favourite: The back on this one may be my favourite, but of the five, I find this the most casual. It has a drop waist — currently all the rage — and the fabric is incredibly lightweight. It can be dressed up or down with the right shoes and accessories, and looks great with a denim jacket and sneakers. The Perlette is currently on sale in white (midnight is no longer available), but the sale may end soon, so act fast if you love it.
Price: $120 (currently on sale from $398)
Material: 50% organically grown cotton, 50% Lenzing Ecovero viscose
Sizes: 0-12
Rating: 8/10
Alternative: Fredo Dress (similar open back and length)
If you’re interested in learning more about standout clothing brands, we’ve covered KOTN, lululemon, Frank & Oak, Aritzia, Everlane and Sezane in detail.
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ltaveroff@postmedia.com
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