Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress

The Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress has become an iconic staple in many women’s closets thanks to its effortlessly chic and feminine design. With its flutter sleeves, flowy silhouette, and versatile styling potential, it’s no wonder this dress is a favorite among fashionistas and style bloggers alike.

As someone who loves keeping up with the latest trends, I was eager to get my hands on the Friends Like These dress that everyone was raving about. However, with so many retailers carrying it, I wasn’t sure where to find the best deal or what options were available. That’s why I decided to put together this comprehensive buying guide to help others navigate the world of shopping for the perfect Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress!

Below I’ll be sharing everything you need to know – from sizing and color availability to styling tips and reviews. Whether you’re purchasing the Friends Like These dress for the first time or looking to add another fun variation to your collection, this guide has got you covered. So keep reading for the ultimate resource on scoring the iconic flutter sleeve dress of the season!

What is the Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress?

The Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress is a flowy, lightweight midi dress made from breezy woven fabric. It features a V-neckline, relaxed A-line silhouette, and the signature flutter sleeves that give it its name. The sleeves have a loose, billowy shape that blouson out from fitted cuffs, creating a whimsical, ethereal effect.

The dress hits around mid-calf on most heights, perfect for showing off your favorite sandals or heels. While it has a casual vibe, it can easily be dressed up for date nights, weddings, and formal events. The flowy shape flatters a range of figures, though it particularly suits pear and hourglass body types.

This versatile dress can transition seamlessly from season to season. Made from airy material, it’s ideal for staying cool in the warmer months. But it also layers beautifully under kimonos and denim jackets when the temperatures drop.

The Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress first launched under the Friends Like These brand, which has become a destination for romantic, feminine styles. Due to the design’s widespread popularity, it now comes in various prints and colors from retailers like Anthropologie, ASOS, Nordstrom, Revolve, and more.

Where to Buy the Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress

Here are some of the top retailers carrying the iconic Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress this season:

• Anthropologie – Anthropologie offers a range of patterns like floral prints, polka dots, and pinstripes. They also have solid color options and all sizes are available.
• ASOS – At ASOS, you can find both Friends Like These branded versions as well as ASOS Design dupes. They have a great selection under $100.
• Nordstrom – Nordstrom carries the dress in select colors and prints, with prices ranging from around $78 to $108. Free shipping and returns are available.
• Revolve – Revolve is stocked with all the latest Friends Like These dress releases, like theirtie-dye, puff sleeve, and ruffled options. The sizes run from XXS to XL.
• Shopbop – For a wide range of sizes and prints, check out Shopbop. Their collection includes longer maxi lengths too.
• Lulus – Lulus has a bunch of affordable lookalike versions and some fun unique prints like their rainbow tie-dye.
• Verishop – At Verishop, you can find classic solids from Friends Like These along with similar designs from other brands like Staud and Faithfull.

Sizing and Fit

The Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress is designed to have a relaxed, flowy silhouette that flatters most body types. However, some tips on getting the perfect size:

• This style runs fairly true to size. Select your normal dress size for the best fit.
• For a looser, more oversized look, consider sizing up one size. This also allows room for layering underneath.
• The dress is available in traditional US dress sizes from XXS-XL, approximately 00-12.
• For larger sizing options, Anthropologie, ASOS, and Unique Vintage carry the dress up to 4X. Lulus has plus sizes up to 3X.
• The flutter sleeves run slightly fitted at the cuff to create definition against the billowy shape. Make sure your arms fit comfortably through the sleeve openings.
• The midi length hits mid-calf on average. Petite girls may prefer going a size down for a shorter fit.
• Check out the store’s size chart if you are concerned about length or want exact garment measurements.

Color and Print Options

The Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress burst onto the scene in black, white, and a range of floral prints. But over time, brands have expanded the color and pattern offerings significantly. Here are some of the iterations you can find:

• Solid hues – Opt for wardrobe staples like black, white, olive green, navy, or red. Soft pastels like blush pink, mint, and buttery yellow are also popular.
• Floral prints – Romantic floral options range from dainty blooms to oversized boho florals. These look great in darker or neutral palettes for maximum versatility.
• Polka dots – Playful polka dot prints are a fun twist on the classic dotted trend. Try bold black and white or intricately-patterned dotted prints.
• Tie dye – For a modern vibe, rock the dress in groovy tie-dye patterns complete with swirls and psychedelic colors.
• Gingham – Checkered gingham prints look utterly charming and summery in variations of red, blue, pink, and more.
• Pinstripes – Thin pinstripes give off vintage vibes, especially in neutral tan and black combos.
• Animal prints – For the edgy fashionista, leopard and snake prints take the flutter sleeve dress to the next level.

Ideal Occasions and Attire

The Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress is so versatile; it can work for all kinds of occasions in both dressy and casual styling:

Casual

• Brunch, lunch outings, date daytime activities
• Running errands, walking city streets
• Farmer’s markets, parks, outdoor concerts
• Casual weekend activities like shopping, art galleries

Semi-Formal

• Daytime garden parties, bridal and baby showers
• Engagement photos, bridal styling for showers/bachelorette
• Graduation celebrations, birthday parties
• Church, synagogue, and other religious services
• Professional work events and networking in a creative field

Evening Cocktail/Formal

• Rehearsal dinners, day-of wedding styling
• Cocktail parties, rooftop happy hours, dinner at a nice restaurant
• City chic nightlife looks when paired with heels/leather jacket
• Guest to gallery openings, museums events, opera, theater

Plus, it transitions wonderfully from:

• Summer to fall with tights, jacket, and booties
• Day to night with strappy heels and glam makeup/hair

Styling Tips and Outfit Ideas

The beauty of the Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress is that it can be worn so many ways! From laidback casual to dressed up elegance, here are some top styling tips:

• Cinch the waist with a belt to define your shape
• Layer over a form-fitting turtleneck bodysuit for colder temps
• Throw on a denim or leather jacket for an edgy contrast
• Add dainty jewelry like thin layered necklaces and small hoops or studs
• Finish the look with block heel sandals, strappy heels, or white sneakers
• Carry a cute mini bag like a heart-shaped, circle, or bamboo handle
• Create shape with an oversized straw hat or floppy wide-brim hat
• Stay cozy in ankle booties, riding boots, or knee-high boots
• Style with retro cat eye sunglasses and red lipstick for a pin-up vibe
• Layer with a long sleeve turtleneck or mockneck fitted sweater
• Cinch with a guaval belt for a vintage country feel
• Pull together with a kimono or flowy cardigan layering piece
• Contrast with an edgy moto or bomber jacket in faux leather or satin
• Add lightweight tights in the colder months to extend wear
• Finish off with bold statement earrings, funky patterns, or bright colors

Ideal Fabric and Materials

The typical Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress is made from a lightweight woven material that flows and drapes beautifully. Some details on common fabrics:

• Rayon – Made from cellulose fiber, rayon adds fluid drape and movement. It’s soft, breathable, and resists wrinkles.
• Viscose – Similar to rayon, viscose comes from wood pulp. It has a silky texture and pairs well with delicate prints.
• Polyester – Polyester creates shape retention without clinging. It’s often blended with viscose or rayon.
• Cotton – 100% cotton provides exceptional comfort and breathability. It offers that casual, laidback vibe.
• Micro-modal – Micro-modal is a lightweight, soft, and smooth rayon variation. It feels luxuriously soft against the skin.
• Challis – Challis is woven to be lightweight and flowy. It’s perfect for flutter sleeve movement.
• Crepe – Crepe material holds shape elegantly while draping. It comes in lovely satin-like textures.
• Chiffon – Sheer chiffon projects effortless elegance. It comes in airy, featherweight styles.

Closure Types

The Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress typically has one of three common closure styles:

• Pull-over – Many are designed as a flowy pull-over dress that goes on overhead without any closure.
• Back zipper – For a more tailored fit, some styles feature a zipper closure along the back. This allows flexibility for fit.
• Side zipper – Side zippers may be hidden or exposed. A side closure maintains the relaxed shape and feel.
• Back ties – Some floral maxis feature long back ties that can be fastened into a bow. This adds a sweet, feminine accent.
• Buttons – Decorative buttons may run along the back neckline or back bodice. These are usually non-functional but add visual interest.

The lack of closures enhances the effortless vibe. But options like zippers and ties allow you to tweak the silhouette and fit as desired.

Event and Photo Shoot Styling

The flutter sleeve dress is a perfectly whimsical choice for events and photoshoots where you want to emanate effortless grace and femininity:

Weddings

• Stunning for bridal showers, rehearsal dinner, and day-of wedding styling
• Go for solid white or blush pink for a bridal vibe; pair with floral crown
• Choose a printed floral dress in pale blue or peach for garden romance
• Style with bold red lips and loose curls for a retro bridesmaid look

Engagement Photos

• Play up the romance with flowing dresses against nature backdrops
• Go for matching white or subtle floral prints for a timeless lovers’ feel
• Walk barefoot on the beach with fluttery sleeves blowing in the wind

Pregnancy Photos

• Flatter and accentuate your bump with empire waist shapes
• Look like a glowing earth mother goddess in intricate florals
• Capture twirling, dancing, and embracing your femininity

Parties

• Ooze ethereal elegance and grace at garden parties and bridal showers
• Make an entrance at soirees in vivid red or leopard print flair
• Top with a faux fur stole and bold lip for a retro 1950’s party vibe

Reviews

The Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress is adored by customers and reviewers for its feminine charm and versatile styling:

• “This dress is so flattering! I get compliments whenever I wear it. It can easily be dressed up or down too.”
• “I’m normally insecure about my arms but the flutter sleeves are so figure-flattering. This is my go-to feel good dress.”
• “I love how many different ways this dress can be styled. It transitions perfectly from season to season.”
• “I ordered it in three colors – black, floral, and polka dot. It’s so hard to pick a favorite because they all look and feel amazing!”
• “This dress is perfect for summer days and cocktail parties nights. The flowy shape keeps you feeling breezy and beautiful.”
• “I’m so glad I sized up. The roomier silhouette with a belt is super flattering. Definitely size up if between sizes.”
• “I always struggle finding sleeveless dresses for my broad shoulders but the flutter sleeves work beautifully.”
• “This is my new favorite wedding guest dress! It dresses up beautifully while still being so comfortable.”

Design Features and Silhouette

Some key design elements that make the Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress universally flattering:

• Flutter sleeves – The loose, blouson flutter sleeves conceal arms gracefully. They add movement and romantic charm.
• Front V-neck – The surplice V-neck flatters the bust with delicate definition. It remains modest but adds shape.
• A-line shape – Flowing gracefully outward from the shoulders, the A-line silhouette is timeless. It suits all figures.
• Midi length – Hitting below the knee but above the ankle, the midi length elongates legs. It’s also perfect for petite frames.
• Light, breezy fabric – The lightweight, fluid fabric skims over the frame without clinging. It’s ideal for warm weather and keeping cool.
• Defined waist – Subtle waist definition nods to shape while draping loosely around the torso. This creates flattering drape through the hips.
• Pockets – Side waist pockets offer functional form. Slip your hands in or just keep for visual balance.
• Size inclusivity – With size ranges from XXS-4X, the dress accommodates most body types and shoppers.

Sizing Consistency

The Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress is known for running relatively true-to-size, though some tips on getting the right fit:

• Carefully consult size charts since there can be minor variations between retailers.
• For a more forgiving fit, consider sizing up. The A-line is roomy and flexible.
• Bustier figures may want to size up for chest room. The V-neck opening is narrow.
• If between regular and plus sizes, size up to the plus for comfort through the hips.
• Petite shoppers can often go down a size for a shorter, more fitted midi length.
• Stick to your usual dress size for a classic fit that’s not too clingy or oversized.
• Play with cinching a belt at the waist to tweak the silhouette for your shape.
• Read customer reviews for sizing feedback specific to each retailer.
• Check return policies in case you need to exchange sizes after trying on. Many retailers allow free shipping both ways.

Plus Size Options

While the dress originally only came in standard straight sizes, there are now several plus size Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress options:

• Anthropologie – Sizes 16W to 26W available in select prints and colors. Runs large in some reviews.
• ASOS – Carries up to size 20 in ASOS Design plus size options.
• Unique Vintage – Sizes 0X to 4X offered in various prints, solids, and retro color palettes.
• Torrid – Torrid makes a similar flutter sleeve swing dress in sizes 10 to 30.
• Kiyonna – Elegant plus size flutter sleeve Wrap Dress available up to size 32.
• Lulus – Size range of XS-3X across core and plus collections.
• Eloquii – Select prints and solids go up to size 28 on this trendy fast fashion site.
• Simply Be – UK-based Simply Be ships to the US and carries up to size 34.
• Baltic Born – Size inclusive indie brand with options up to 3X.

Prints and Patterns

From dainty floral to bold animal prints, the Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress comes in a dynamic array of prints:

Most Popular:

• Simple solids in black, white, olive, navy, red, pink
• Feminine floral prints like lavender blooms or pink roses
• Playful polka dots in red, pink, navy, or eclectic dots
• Breezy paisleys in shades of blue, lavender, and muted earth tones

Trending Now:

• Free-spirited tie dye swirls in purple, blue, pink
• Retro gingham checks and picnic plaids for summertime
• Edgy leopard and snake prints in brown, beige, or red palettes
• Artsy watercolor floral prints in pale blue and purple shades

Also Available:

• Vintage-inspired pinstripes and houndstooth
• Ethereal cloud or butterfly prints
• Bold tropical foliage and oversized botanical prints
• Whimsical hummingbird and budding flower motifs

Price Range

The Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress costs:

• $50-$100 – At fast fashion sites like Lulus, Zaful, Romwe, and Shein
• $78-$128 – Mid-range at Nordstrom, ASOS, Anthropologie, Revolve
• $100-$200 – Premium pricing for Friends Like These brand at high-end retailers
• $300+ – For exclusive collaborations, custom patterns, or formal/bridal iterations

The price varies based on:

• Brand – Friends Like These brand costs more than fast fashion dupes
• Retailer – Boutiques charge more than big box shops
• Material – Delicate lace, silk, or satins hike up pricing
• Print – Novelty patterns and limited releases are pricier
• Embellishments – Added beads, sequins, or embroidery raises costs
• Sizing – Extended plus and petite size ranges can increase price

On average, expect to budget $100-$150 for this wardrobe staple. Shop end-of-season sales for the best deals on surplus inventory.

Tailoring and Alterations

To achieve the perfect custom fit, consider these common Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress alterations:

• Take in the sides for a less voluminous, more fitted silhouette. This retains the flowy flutter sleeves.
• Hem to a shorter midi or above-the-knee length for petite frames.
• Take it up a size and cinch the waist with a belt for a defined shape.
• Remove/reinforce modesty lining if it shows through lighter fabrics.
• Add darts to the back to contour the dress to your figure.
• Resize the flutter sleeves by taking in the elastic wrist cuff.
• Remove sleeves completely for a sultry strapless/sleeveless look.
• Add bra strap holders or underwire support to interior side seams.
• Install hidden snaps along the neckline’s interior to wear off-shoulder.
• Add pockets to the side seams for function. Opt for in-seam or patch pockets.

Wear Year Round

The Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress seamlessly transitions across seasons:

Spring

• Bare legs with flats or strappy sandals
• Lightweight kimonos, denim jackets, or cardigans
• Florals and pastels capture the season

Summer

• Perfect on its own in the warm weather
• Popsicles prints and bold hues scream summer
• Go bold with colorful accessories

Fall

• Layer over long sleeve turtlenecks and mocknecks
• Accentuate with boots, booties, and leather moto jackets
• Rich jewel tones and darker hues match the mood

Winter

• Finish with opaque tights and knee-high boots
• Contrast with fuzzy sweaters and shearling coats
• Holiday motifs like reindeer, snowflake, or plaid prints

Year Round

• Flowy kimonos add light coverage when needed
• Cinch with a belt to define shape every season
• Neutrals like black, white, navy, and red work anytime

Comparison to Other Brands

How does the iconic Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress compare to other brands?

Anthropologie – Comparable quality and prints at similar pricing. More options for extended sizing.

Free People – Known for oh-so boho dresses but fewer classic solid colors. More casual vibe.

Reformation – Reformation offers edgier necklines and shorter hemlines in luxe, eco fabrics.

Lulus – Affordable fast-fashion versions perfect for trendy prints. Not as luxe.

Rent the Runway – Great for renting high-end designers like Self-Portrait for events.

Nasty Gal – Trend-driven with vintage and rock n’ roll edge. Not as many solids.

For Love and Lemons – Romantic plus sexy mix at higher price points. Some sheer elements.

Faithfull the Brand – Comparable feminine vibe and sleeve silhouettes. More casual fabrics.

Pink Blush – Known for occasion wear like bridal and wedding guest dresses.

The Perfect Flutter Sleeve Dress for Every Body Type

The universally flattering silhouette suits all figures, but some styling tips for different body types:

Pear shape– Balance top and bottom with darker flutter sleeves and lighter solid skirt. Cinch waist to accentuate hourglass shape.

Straight/athletic – Opt for show stopping bold prints. Nipped waist and full skirt gives illusion of curves.

Apple – Look for V-necks to elongate the torso. Avoid boxy shapes and add volume through sleeves.

Hourglass – Accentuate your shape! Fitted silhouettes and wrap-dress ties rock your curves.

Petite – Seek out high necklines, cap or midi sleeves. Shorter lengths will elongate. Add delicate jewelry.

Tall/slim – Choose side slits or high-low hems to show off legs. Play with oversized and maxi lengths.

Plus size – Embrace both loose and more tailored A-line shapes to flatter. Look for curve-accentuating details like off-shoulder sleeves.

Inverted triangle – Balance broad shoulders with 3/4 fluttery sleeves. Soften frame with relaxed fabrics.

Conclusion

With its dreamy flutter sleeves and myriad styling possibilities, the Friends Like These Flutter Sleeve Dress makes an effortlessly chic addition to any wardrobe. This buying guide covers everything from the best retailers and prints to styling for different occasions and body types. Use these tips to shop smart and find your perfect flutter sleeve frock! Whether it’s your first or your fifth, you’re guaranteed to reach for this feminine staple all year long.