During the summer, I’m strictly a dress person. Whether I’m in a casual jersey style or a more elegant silhouette, a good dress pulls together a look instantly, while keeping me cool on hot and humid days. I’ll pick a dress over pants or shorts any day, so after years as a shopping editor constantly filtering through styles, I’ve gotten quick at spotting the real standouts. The moment I saw the Peregrine Midi Dress from Anthropologie, I knew I’d found a winner.
Anthropologie
Stretchy where it counts, floaty where it matters — and yes, it has pockets. The prints are bold, the fit’s a show-off. Your other dresses should probably be nervous. Buy one if you must, but don’t say I didn’t warn you when you’re back for more.
The Peregrine Midi Dress is exactly the kind of universally flattering cotton dress I crave in my warm-weather rotation. How something so comfortable can look so cute is a true marvel of fashion, and it’s why having just one doesn’t seem like a viable option any reasonable person would entertain.
It’s the little details that make me swoon: flutter sleeves that add a fun, feminine flair, a tiered skirt that moves like it means it. Oh, and did I mention that it has pockets? Pockets! It slips on effortlessly — no zippers or tiny buttons to wrestle with — and the smocked bodice stretches just enough to fit different chest sizes comfortably. The buttons run all the way down the front, but you don’t have to unbutton a thing to get dressed — because seriously, who has time for button battles? Just slip it on and play dress-up with how much leg you’re ready to show off.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Like Anthropologie’s internet-famous Somerset Maxi Dress, the Peregrine is machine-washable and totally versatile. Throw it on with heeled sandals for bridal showers or dinner dates on vacation or pair it with sneakers and a jean jacket for running around town. When all your other dresses turn green with jealousy, don’t say I didn’t warn you.
The Peregrine comes in standard, plus and petite sizes, plus different hem lengths so you can find your perfect fit. I’m especially eyeing the Peregrine Mini for those brutally hot days, and the embroidered version with the delicate eyelet hem detail has me weak — it’s the kind of subtle flourish that feels special without trying too hard.
Anthropologie
Petite or just into showing more leg? The Peregrine Mini is the leggy little sister who brings a side of sass. And don’t worry, this one has pockets, too. Pockets!
I’m not the only Anthro fan who’s majorly crushing on the Peregrine Midi Dress — it’s earned nearly 200 glowing five-star reviews to boot.
“Perfect” seems to be the operative word when describing this dress. One reviewer said it plainly: “This dress is perfect!” Another got more specific: “The most gorgeous dress, fabric is light and fit is perfect.”
Advertisement
Advertisement
“Amazing silhouette,” said a satisfied shopper who knows a good thing when she wears it. “I’ve purchased this dress style three times now and it never disappoints to flatter my shape.”
Oh yeah, “flattering” is the other word that’s been used more times than we’re prepared to count: “Absolutely love this dress. It’s a flattering fit and super comfy through the bust.”
And here’s another on the flattering train: “Oh, I love this. It’s so flattering, the fit is forgiving without running large, it’s comfortable, it’s easy to throw on, and it isn’t see-through. And it has pockets!”
About that fit: “This dress fits fabulously. I was worried about where the piping would land, as I have a larger chest. Looks great on and lays perfectly. The colors are just as they are shown in the picture and the print is super fun. Lightweight and flowy. Can’t wait to wear all summer.”
Advertisement
Advertisement
Anthropologie loyalists, take note — this shopper compared it to the wildly popular Somerset and Katerina styles and still walked away impressed: “Anthro has some really great dress fits — this is one of them. As a fan of Somerset and Katerina, I decided to try the Peregrine and am glad I did… I really like that it is a lined dress. 100% recommend, would love to see it in some silky fabrics.”
While this dress is on the pricier side at $160, if you take advantage of how versatile it is and work it in your rotation frequently, the cost per wear ends up being incredibly reasonable.
It’s been called ‘perfect.’ It’s been called ‘flattering.’ It’s been bought in threes. It’s time to take the hint: This is the be-all and end-all of summer dresses. (Anthropologie)
