Harlow Dress review: Viral summer dress from Motto
Motto’s “amazing” Harlow Dress went viral and sold out within hours of its release, but does it live up to the hype?
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I’ve always loved fashion. And I’ve always known exactly what I like and what suits my style and body shape. Back in the day, I would update my wardrobe regularly and buy (at least) one pair of shoes a month!
However since then, life has got in the way of my fashion sense, and after many years of freelancing (hello pjs), renovating (no money) and kid wrangling (no time), my wardrobe is severely lacking.
To make matters worse, since entering my 50s, (a few years ago now) everything has completely changed – and not just in the way you imagine.
Now I simply don’t know what to wear! I can’t carry off the same pieces I wore throughout my 20s, 30s, even 40s. Nothing looks right anymore.
And now I work here in the office, instead of freelancing, I need outfits that don’t involve trackies or activewear – and it’s a challenge. I’m also a busy mum with a mortgage, car loan and endless bills for groceries, braces, maths tutoring, dance classes, the list goes on. There’s simply no spare money to keep my wardrobe current – and absolutely no time to do it.
So, when I was asked to review the viral Harlow Dress by innovative clothing label, Motto – I literally jumped off my chair and pumped my arms like I’d just won the lottery.
Run by mother and daughter team Faye Browne and Lauren French, Motto aims to empower all types of women whatever age or size, helping them discover their unique beauty through fashion. And their designs are going through the roof, attracting the attention of influencers, news anchors and TV celebs including Julia Morris and Kate Langbroek.
This was exactly what I needed.
Yes, I was a little concerned that Motto’s clothes are beloved by older women (just like me). The last thing I want is to look middle aged – I mean have you seen the super chic (and young) editorial team at news.com.au checkout? It’s hard coming in to work each day!
However when I saw on TikTok that more than 50 per cent of the Harlow Dress sold out within just four hours of its release, my interest was definitely piqued.
I had to give this miracle dress a go and see if it lived up to the hype. Besides, I’m in desperate need of a new favourite (and age-appropriate) label – and maybe Motto is it.
Read on to find out what I really thought of the Harlow Dress …
ONE MINUTE REVIEW: THE BLACK RIPPLE HARLOW DRESS
Black Ripple Harlow Dress
HOW WE TESTED MOTTO’S BLACK RIPPLE HARLOW DRESS
I tried the Black Ripple Harlow Dress in a size 8 and wore it over a six-week period, both day and night, on a variety of different occasions. This included going to work, out to dinner and off to a party. I even wore it while doing the grocery shop.
FULL REVIEW OF THE BLACK RIPPLE HARLOW DRESS
MATERIAL
The Black Ripple Harlow Dress is crafted from a slinky polyester fabric that falls exactly how you want it to. While black in colour, the fabric is slightly textured with a subtle crinkle that adds interest and a point of difference. It also has a slight stretch so allows for easy movement.
I was initially worried the dress would be hot over summer, however I found the opposite to be true. The fabric is super light and cooling, plus the design is loose and relaxed so it’s perfect for the warmer weather. The other advantage is that the fabric is so easy to manage and look after. It doesn’t crumple or need ironing (hurray!), so you can pop it on, walk out the door and know that it will look good all day. It can also be machine washed (cold water in a delicates bag) and when it’s done, you simply hang it up and it won’t crease. Heaven.
FEATURES
I have to say I was a little unsure when I first pulled the dress out, as it looked like it might be too big. Which was surprising as I’d received other Motto pieces – all in size 8 – that fitted perfectly. I soon learnt that the Harlow Dress is in fact oversized. That’s the look – and it didn’t take long before I fell in love with it.
What’s so great about this dress is that while it definitely has a relaxed fit, the design is super flattering and suitable for pretty much any body type. The way it’s cut and the way it falls into place flatters your shape – plus it has a tie so you can cinch it in slightly at the waist to custom the look.
It also features a wide boat neckline that falls off the shoulder (love that) and a sexy side split to show some leg (love that too). And not only is the Harlow Dress totally body enhancing, it’s also incredible comfortable to wear. It has a bit of give that makes it easy to sashay about – and best of all, you simply pull it over your head and you’re good to go. My sort of dress.
THE STYLE
The Harlow Dress gets full marks for versatility. I found it easy to style and wear on a number of very different occasions. I’d just throw it on, pick a pair of shoes depending on where I was going, add some jewellery and off I went.
In my busy day, I usually have about 15 minutes to get ready for work if I’m lucky, so this dress was the perfect option and paired well with trainers, especially my new yellow ones.
However, it also looks fabulous with heels and I combined it with my favourite leopard skin stilettos for date night. I’ve been lacking in evening wear (don’t go out that much) but this dress solved that dilemma. It’s one of those pieces that – however I feel – is a guaranteed success.
I’ve also worn it to a school event, out to dinner and I’ve even worn it to the supermarket (and felt fabulous). I can wear it casually with slides, then because of the glamorous quality of the fabric and sexy off-the-shoulder style, I can pop on a pair of heels and head straight out for the evening.
Not only does the Harlow look and feel divine, but it has increased the size my wardrobe with a number of fantastic options, all of which suit my age – yet looks ageless!
WHAT ARE PEOPLE SAYING ABOUT IT?
It looks like I’m not the only one to have fallen for this miracle dress. It sold out at a rapid pace when it arrived on the scene, and it seems customers can’t stop at one. And the reviews keep flooding in.
“Absolutely love this dress,” said one happy shopper. “I love the fit, how it skims over hips and tummy. It’s is an amazing forever piece for my wardrobe.”
“Feel a million dollars wearing this dress and will be showing it off on my next cruise,” raved this five-star reviewer. “It is so delightful to wear I bought two.”
“Absolutely love this Dress!” enthused another. “It’s so flattering on. Has beautiful light weight material and such a lovely colour, so pleased with my purchase that I actually got another colour in this style.”
THE VERDICT
What can I say, I love this dress. I adore its cool 80s vibe and clever design that’s both comfortable and extremely current. Its oversized quality hides all sorts of body challenges and makes me look and feel amazing.
The other day, I had my yearly skin check (yes, I grew up in an era when applying SPF 8 was being conservative) and I had this dress on. So easy to slip off when needed. When the examination was done, I threw my dress back on (with effortless style) and the doctor’s assistant nodded approvingly and said, “Perfect!”
At $159.95, it’s not a budget buy, but this is an excellent price for a well designed fashion piece that, quite frankly, will last a few seasons. The fact it’s so versatile only adds to its value.
I love that I can wear it anywhere and I don’t have to think too much about it. You can dress it up or down, and change the look each time.
Simple, uncomplicated and ultra chic, I reckon this is the season’s version of the little black dress – and if you want one guaranteed piece to cover all manner of bases, this is the one to pick.
WHAT ELSE DOES MOTTO MAKE?
There are so many must-have pieces to purchase at Motto. I was lucky enough to sample a few other items and everything I put on was true to size and screamed individuality and casual elegance. Every item was flattering without looking conservative or, heaven forbid, middle-aged.
First I tried the Black Animal Bias Dress, and I love it. I literally took it out of the packaging, put it on and went straight to a book launch. Much like the Harlow Dress, I can simply throw it on and know it looks great – and I seem to be throwing it on every other day. The fabric has a slinky satiny feel that’s divine against the skin. I love the flattering bias cut, V-neck and thin straps. Perfect for glamming it up and keeping your cool on a hot day.
I also tried the Black Tencel Lust Cami, $99.95. This top, made from figure hugging and flattering Tencel, goes with everything and is also reversible so you have a choice of two necklines. Plus, it comes with removable should pads (yes, shoulder pads!) to enhance the flattering shape. I wasn’t sure about the shoulder pads at first (I partied through the 80s), but now I LOVE them. This is a great addition to my wardrobe as it pairs up with just about any of my pants or jeans.
I love a white shirt but usually avoid wearing one as they make me feel boxy. But not Motto’s Ivory Cargo Blogger Shirt, $139.95. Sexy, silky and body hugging – with no buttons – you simply throw it on, like many of Motto’s clever pieces. Dress it up with jeans and heels, or wear it casually with shorts and trainers. Another work outfit at the ready.
As a Gen Xer I couldn’t believe my luck when I got to try the fabulous Denim Miracle Jeans 2.0, $149.95. I have been assured (by my team) that skinny jeans are coming back in, and I saw this as a definite sign. These fit like a comfy glove and look stunning. So, I’m calling it. Skinny jeans are definitely back in vogue.
Now, I don’t usually wear long skirts but I’m loving Motto’s Black Gloss Bias Skirt, $139.95. It’s cut on the cross with a wide elasticised waist band that is comfy, not tight. I can wear it to work with a tee or Motto’s Black Tencel Lust Cami along with slides for a totally chic yet casual look.
The Black Croc Coated Miracle Skirt 2.0, $119.95 was another winner. There was a slight nip in the air the other day and this paired with a singlet and trainers made a great work outfit.
BUY A BUNDLE
Motto offers different bundles to save you money and – more importantly – time. This might be a couple of pieces that enhance you entire wardrobe or a bundle of Tencel basics for 20 per cent off. I would never have embraced this concept before but now it sounds ideal for the time-poor, hardworking mum in need of a happening wardrobe.
THE FINAL SAY
I’m now a complete convert and will definitely consider Motto in the future. In fact there are a couple of other items I have my eye on, such as the Animal Denim Stretch Pocket Jean, the sexy Pink Athleisure Pant and the Pewter Embossed Bias Dress. And I’m just about to press Buy Now on the Navy Shirt Dress, now $99.95 (down from $199.95).
After trying a range of pieces, I feel confident most of the items will suit me as Motto clothes have all been true to size – such a relief when ordering online. Plus, it feels like every design has been created to suit, (flatter, even) every age or body type.
For a mid-50s working mum on a budget, life doesn't get much better – I think I just found my new favourite label.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A DRESS
Buying a dress is a very personal decision as it comes down to what you like and what makes you feel the most fabulous. There are no hard-and-fast rules, however, here are some factors to take into consideration when you’re next on the hunt for the perfect option.
Material: There are all sorts of fabrics out there but in summer, it’s best to opt for one that is lightweight and breathable like cotton, linen or a cool moisture-wicking polyester.
Budget: This is a huge consideration as you can spend an enormous amount on a dress. However there are great affordable options out there, especially during sale times. Work out your limit and try not to go over it (too much!).
Length: Are you looking for a maxi dress, a midi or a mini?
Season: Is this a dress for winter or summer? This might change the fabric, tone and style you choose.
Occasion: Are you buying a dress for something special? Or is it an everyday dress for work. Some dresses, like Motto’s Harlow can manage both!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHO IS MOTTO?
Motto is a Melbourne-based fashion brand run by mother and daughter team, Faye Browne and Lauren French. Established in 1985 by Faye and John Browne, Laura moved into the family business and joined the team in 2007. Motto has been the recipient of a host of awards and now includes six retail stores, an extremely healthy e-commerce division and a manufacturing location in Melbourne.
WHAT IS MOTTO’S AIM?
Browne and French design clothes to empower women through fashion, encouraging them to break the norms and be who they want to be. The dynamic duo strive to provide a platform for all women, no matter their age or size, allowing them to find their authentic self. “You can be proud to own pieces that last,” the couple say on the Motto website. “Our styles are exclusive, and we insist on longevity with our designs”.
More Coverage
DOES MOTTO OFFER FREE SHIPPING?
Yes, they do! There is free express shipping on all orders within Australia. Deliveries take approximately one to two days from the time they’re dispatched – and I can vouch for that. My deliveries were extremely prompt with regular email updates.
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