The Mini(scule) Dress

In honor of a woman's right to bare almost all on a lovely summer day, today's Couture Carrie post is devoted to that alluring gam-showcasing garment favored by celebs and mere mortals alike: the minidress. Much ado has been made about the scandalous lack of fabric on some of these frocks, but CC does not judge. Enjoy, darlings!! First, the runway...
As you know, CC is enamored of Frida Giannini's Resort 2009 Collection for Gucci, so here's another stunner, above left: a swingy pleated minidress in a regal navy, white and saffron print.

At right: Wunderkind's pinstripe bow detail dress . . .

This look is a bit over-the-top, with the leopard print jacket and purple ankle socks/blue platform combo, but CC loves it nonetheless!!

Balmain strapless black leather mini dress, via vogue.com/uk.

It doesn't get any skimpier than this!!

Temperley London op-art print dress. Note how the thigh high leather boots just meet the end of the frock - sexy!

First four photos in today's CC post via style.com.

Kenzo floral half-sleeve dress, via nymag.com.
This gorgeous cut-out halter neck Stella McCartney frock (runway photo via style.com) has become nearly synonymous with its most famous wearer, a close friend of the designer . . .

Yes! Gwyneth Paltrow looooves the black minidress. Here she is on the cover of U.S. Bazaar; if it seems that she forgot to put on pants, that may be the case: this sequined "dress" is, by the editors' own admission, a Proenza Schouler "t-shirt".

But hey, Gwynie looks amazing, so who are we to complain?

Blumarine feathered spaghetti strap dress, via nymag.com.

Réyes belted, layered tank dress, via nymag.com
How to wear it without looking tawdry?

If there's not much on the bottom, make sure the top is covered up a bit . . . Proportion is everything!

This Rachel Pally asymmetrical mini dress (for puchase at shopbop.com) is a bit wacky, but it illustrates CC's point: the long sleeve balances out the lack of fabric on the skirt!
Likewise, this Tofu organza minidress is made demure by its poufy cap sleeves and conservative silk pleat collar. Visit asos.com to buy.
The magenta puff sleeves and pleated silver hem of this Réyes silk tunic dress really class it up. Visit hampdenclothing.com.

Expert tailoring is another sure way to maintain some ladylike decorum when wearing a short dress. No one will sneeze at the impeccable craftsmanship of this Zac Posen seamed stretch wool minidress. Lovely neckline and pocket details!

The a-line dress is a fairly forgiving as well. Try this Missoni abstract print mini dress, This and the previous look are both at neimanmarcus.com.

Or showcase those toned legs in a Yumi Boutique pleated chiffon dress with lace trim. Go to asos.com to see the lovely detailing on the back of this little frock - brills!
One fabulous aspect of these flirty frocks? They transition easily from summer to fall/winter with a sassy pair of tights. A pair of opaque tights is an instant remedy for a too-short dress!! This Stella McCartney grey strapless tulip dress (available at Neiman Marcus) will go from sultry to cozy with the addition of a lovely pair of patterned tights!

Another word of advice about wearing a body-con mini, like this Herve Leger stunner? As Rachel Bilson illustrates, CONFIDENCE is the best antidote to looking awkward in a scandalously short dress. Stand up straight and don't tug at the hem of your frock. Strut it and mean it! And remember, a little self-tanner doesn't hurt! Have a lovely weekend, darlings!