This past week I took advantage of the mild temps to finally break out this LC Lauren Conrad knit dress I had hanging untouched in my closet since this last winter. I typically do most of my shopping out of season as that is when the lowest prices can be found. Sure you risk the chance on missing out on pieces you want but you also can stumble upon some unexpected surprises. This dress was no different, being a straight size cut and at 60% off its originally $50 price tag.

I’ll admit that I own an ever growing collection of fit &flare/skater dresses, but the open crisscross-back of this particular dress was a challenge that I just couldn’t pass up. Growing up plus size meant being continuously told by both family and strangers that I should cover up certain parts of my body, being my arms, thighs and, of course, back rolls.  My insecurities kept me away from prints and colors as well as certain styles that draw attention to the aforementioned “problem areas.” While difficult at times, challenging myself to try out pieces I wouldn’t have even dared to five years ago has proven to be the best way to counter the negativity and finally express the beauty I once hid. There is no greater feeling than being unapologetically cute and fabulous, especially with back rolls. In order to keep the focus on this dress I kept thelook casual and simple, pairing it with my natural color lace up oxfords.

~Get the look~

LC Lauren Conrad Print Crisscross-Back Dress (XL) | Kohl’s (similar here, here, here and here)
Restricted Lace Up Cut Out Oxfords | DSW (similar here)

Many thanks to my friend, Diana Arriola for taking these pictures.