nap dress Archives - Dresses & Democracy

An Updated Hill House Home & Nap Dress Review and Guide (with try-ons and a discount code!)

Disclaimer: Items linked in this post may be affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase, I might make a small commission. This comes at no additional cost to you, and the money I make helps me keep this blog up and running!

Last summer, after buying my first Nap Dress, I wrote a blog post reviewing it. I think it’s actually my most-read blog post ever. Since then, my Nap Dress collection has grown quite a bit. I wear a Nap Dress at least once a week (usually more). I own… quite a few of them.

Why I Love The Nap Dress

It’s clear that I love Nap Dresses. I’m not sponsored by Hill House (a girl can dream though), but I promote these dresses like I am. Why? Well, here are a few reasons I love them:

They’re super comfy. I can wear one all day long without getting uncomfortable. I actually have taken a nap in one before. The smocking and flowy silhouettes provide the ultimate balance of both style and comfort.
The quality is great. I love the fabrics and feel of all the Nap Dresses I own. I’ve only had an issue with an item once (which I’ll get too next), and nothing else since. And I wear these items often. Also, for the most part, they’re machine washable and easy to care for!
Their customer service rocks. Like I said above, I’ve only had an issue with an item once. A top I bought from them had a seam at the sleeve coming apart. I emailed customer service about it, and they quickly apologized, sent me a replacement, and provided me with a shipping label to return the defective one. They’re also extremely responsive on Instagram, both in DMs and in the comments on their posts.
They’re versatile. I’ve worn my Nap Dresses to work. I graduated college in a Nap Dress. I celebrated getting my job in a Nap Dress. I’ve worn them to weddings, in the winter and the summer. They’re easy to make casual or dressy. Do I need to go on?
It’s a woman-founded and -owned company. I love supporting women and female entrepreneurship!!! Hill House’s founder, Nell Diamond, is so freaking cool. She’s a working mom of precious children. She’s unapologetic about how girly, frilly style does not mean you shouldn’t be taken seriously in a professional environment (something I definitely appreciate). Also, she votes Dem (evidence here, here, and here), so obviously I support that. She’s been super kind when I’ve interacted with her through DMs, so I’m kind of obsessed with her and kinda want to be her when I grow up.
There’s such a kind community of fellow Nap Dress wearers. I’ve been blown away by how amazing Nap Dress Nation is. I’m in a few Facebook groups for it, and I’ve actually made some friends through it!
They. Added. Pockets. For a while, this was a lot of people’s main complaint. In Hill House’s most recent drop, they gave the people what they wanted. Their dresses now have pockets, and I couldn’t be more thrilled about it!

Need I go on? I probably could forever. But in the interest of time, I’ll spare you the details. Let’s get into the review.

Discount Code

If you’re already convinced, I’ll go ahead and throw in my promo link. I am not being paid to promote this; anyone can do it. If you use this link to make your first Hill House Home purchase, you’ll get 20% off! I’ll also get a coupon for $20 off a purchase of mine. It’s a win-win for both of us!

Sizing

As I’m sure many of y’all can relate, women’s sizing tends to be pretty inconsistent. Typically, I’m either a small or medium and I can range from a size 2 to a size 6 depending on the brand and garment. However, I’m usually a size 2/4 and more often a small than a medium. I have a relatively small chest and I’m more bottom-heavy. My bra size is 32A, and I usually wear a 28 in jeans. As for height, I’m about 5’5″, although I do love wearing heels!

I take an XS in most of my Hill House dresses. I’ll be posting try-on photos and sizing below of all my items, though, and please don’t hesitate to ask me questions! I’ve found that in general, Hill House tends to run larger and most people can get away with sizing down. The smocking and flowy, tiered silhouettes of a lot of their garments make it so the sizing is pretty forgiving.

Dress Types and Try Ons

The Ellie

The Ellie is the classic Nap Dress style. I recommend this as everyone’s first style. I wear an XS in this one, and it’s the style I have the most of. An XS is one size down from what I usually wear, and I do recommend going a size down in the Ellie for most people trying the Nap Dress for the first time, unless you have a larger bust, in which case I’ve heard some people take their normal size to compensate for that.

The Nesli

I would describe the Nesli as an Ellie, but with puff sleeves. To me, they’re super similar dresses, with the sleeves being the main difference. I wear the same size in this as I do with the Ellie, an XS. This may be one of my favorite silhouettes that Hill House makes. I think it’s super flattering, and it’s just a fun, comfy style.

The Athena

I find the Athena to be almost like a shorter Nesli, but with smaller sleeves. I wear my same Nesli and Ellie size in this one, an XS. It’s the perfect summertime dress since it’s short and light, but it’s easy to transition to colder weather with some tights.

The Ophelia

The Ophelia is a newer silhouette, and it’s one of my favs. The lower neckline is flirtier, but the puff sleeves and full skirt still feel feminine and girly to me. Hill House changed their sizing for this drop, but I panicked and got my usual Ellie size, XS. I probably could have done my usual small, and if I get another I likely will size up. However, the smocked back makes the Ophelia pretty forgiving, and I didn’t want to deal with an exchange, so I’m fine with the size I have.

The Ava

The Ava is yet another dress from the last drop with the sizing change. I got an XS in this one as well, and I think it’s perfect. I could maybe do a small because it’s tighter in the torso, but because my chest is smaller, I would probably be concerned about the chest being too big. The ruffle sleeves can be worn on or off the shoulder, and this style comes with a removable sash. Personally, I like it tied in a bow at the front!

The Caroline

I don’t have a photo in this one because it happened to be in the laundry machine while I was writing this. (Sorry!) I have one Caroline that I mainly wear as a nightgown, but I do still love it. It’s super comfy to sleep and lounge in. I wear an XS in this style and it’s perfect, even with the smocking around the neck. I like my pajamas to be loose and comfy, but even with sizing down from my usual, an XS is the best size for me. If you’ve shopped Hill House before, I recommend going with your Ellie size in this. It’s the ideal Victorian ghost type of nightgown, if that’s your vibe (and it totally is mine).

Nap Dress FAQs

What’s your favorite silhouette?

Probably the Ellie or Ophelia! I love the Ellie for it versatility since you can wear it to so many different occasions, but the Ophelia is super flattering and makes me feel like a princess.

What style do you recommend to new customers?

Hands down, get an Ellie. I truly believe they’re universally flattering and the styling possibilities are endless. I’ve never seen an Ellie on someone and thought “Oh, that dress just doesn’t look good on them.” If you don’t believe me, go to the tagged photos on Hill House’s Instagram! Everyone needs an Ellie.

Do they run TTS?

Like I said above, I find that Hill House tends to run large. Unless you have a large chest, I’d recommend sizing down from your usual size. If you have any questions, their website also has a size guide with each item and they’re super responsive via DM on Instagram!

Does Hill House only make dresses?

No! They make home items such as bedding and bath linens (hence the name Hill House Home), and they’ve been expanding into other clothing items beyond dresses. There have also been rumors about potentially making shoes too! Some of the other items of theirs I have are…

The Quilt Coat, which I own in 2 colors because I love it that much.
The Kit Top, aka the perfect white blouse.
The Bea Jacket and the Olivia Skirt, which are my ultimate fun power suit.

What’s next on your list?

I’m hoping to snag an Elizabeth in the next drop! It’s like a short version of the Ellie, so I think it’ll be perfect for summer.

Any other question that wasn’t addressed here…

DM me on Instagram! I’m always down to chat Nap Dresses.

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Categories: Beauty, Fashion & Style, Lifestyle, Shopping

September 2021 Favorites

I feel like everyone loves a good favorites post. It’s so interesting to see what other people are loving enough to dedicate a whole post to raving about them. They’re also a great way to find new items to try out! I keep a running list in my phone of stuff I’ve really been enjoying lately for posts like this. I’m sure you’re all antsy to get past my rambling and into the post, so I’ll jump right in!

Disclaimer: Some of these links may be affiliate links, meaning if you make a purchase using them, I may earn a small commission. This comes at no extra cost to you, and it helps me keep my blog running! I really appreciate anyone who shops with my links, and I’d be super grateful if you use them!

Clothing Rack: This is the number one thing I’ve received questions about on Instagram since moving into my new apartment. It’s in my little office area and in the background any time I take a mirror selfie. It serves two functions: 1. extra storage for my clothes since closet space is limited (because now I share one with another person) and 2. a display for my prettiest dresses. I feel like having a clothing rack of nice clothes is the ultimate “fashion blogger” decor piece! This gold one from Amazon is a great price (under $100), was super easy to put together and holds a lot! I get so many compliments when people see it behind me on Zoom calls. And pro tip: there are two important factors to making it look styled and not like just some extra clothing storage. First, use nice, matching hangers. I like these! Second, try to stick to a color palette with the clothes you put on it so it looks cohesive. Mine is mainly pinks, blues, purples and whites, which I think compliment each other very nicely.

Matching Pajama Sets: Someone on TikTok called matching pajama sets key to leveling up your life and wow. I totally agree! It’s such a small thing (to the point where it feels kinda silly), but it feels like such a “self care” thing to change into one before bed instead of just wearing a big T-shirt. They can be as affordable or spendy as you want, too! I have these (which I got on clearance) and these (less than $25!), which are on the cheaper side. However, I’m dying for a more splurge-worthy set from somewhere like Printfresh or Lake Pajamas!

Benefit Cheek Tint: To be fully transparent, I was gifted this in a PR box in exchange for an Instagram post earlier this summer. That obligation was filled well before this blog post went live. I was not paid or compelled to write this post. With that being said, I love this stuff and have used it basically every day since I bought it. I have pretty pale skin, so I feel like a ghost without blush or bronzer to add some dimension to my face. This adds the perfect amount of rosiness without looking too over the top, but it’s buildable so you could definitely more if you need more color. I also find that cream or liquid blush stays on longer than powder blush does!

Nap Dresses: I feel like I can’t go a day without telling people how much I love the Hill House Nap Dress. I’m basically a Nap Dress evangelist at this point. I’m literally wearing one right now! I wrote a whole blog post review about my first Nap Dress (which includes a discount link). To sum things up: I started this summer with one Nap Dress. Now I have seven of them. Am I obsessed? Yes! But is it bad for anyone? Maybe my wallet…but I feel so cute and comfy! You need a Nap Dress. I need more of them. Everyone needs a Nap Dress!

Huggie Hoop Set: My ears are double-pierced, but the spacing between the holes is uneven on each side, so I’m a little limited as to what kinds of earrings I can wear. Basically, I either have to wear very small studs or thin hoops. This set from Amazon is awesome, and I’ve been wearing the crystal pair in my second hole multiple times a week! It looks great with the braided pair in the set or even a pair of bigger hoops or drop earrings. Bonus: the set of three is under $15!

Long-Lasting Lipstick: Something that just screams “I have my life together” to me is wearing lipstick. Bonus points if you have a signature shade! I recently picked up this lipstick in a Target order, and I’ve since purchased two more shades. It lasts for so long but doesn’t feel drying or flaky! I have the colors Change is Good (reddish pink), Keep It Fun (mauve) and Seek Adventure (bright pink). I have heard that the shade Achieve It All is a dupe for the famous Charlotte Tilbury Pillowtalk lipstick, so that’ll be my next pick.

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Categories: Fashion & Style

Hill House Nap Dress Review (with Outfit Inspo and a Discount Code!)

You might have heard of the nap dress or the brand Hill House. If you haven’t, maybe you’ve seen a photo of someone wearing one on Instagram. Even if you have no idea what I’m talking about, have no fear! Today, I’ll be giving you a crash course in all things nap dress, including what they are, how to purchase, my review and styling inspiration!

Blog post graphic featuring the title and a photo of a girl in a dress

What is the Nap Dress?

Hill House Home, the brand behind this all, boasts that they are the “home of the original Nap Dress.” But what is this piece of clothing? What’s with all the hype behind it?

As the name may suggest, the nap dress is a dress so comfortable, you could literally wear it as pajamas and take a nap in it. The silhouettes are loose and flowy, and the fabrics are soft, lightweight and breathable. They’re known for giving you serious comfort, while also looking stunning and serving total Bridgerton vibes.

Because of their amazing reputation, these dresses sell out very quickly every time there’s a new drop. The next one is actually on Wednesday at noon, so if you’d like to get your hands on one, have an alarm set! If you’d like to save a bit, I have a referral link for $20 off your first purchase. This post isn’t sponsored (anyone can get one of these codes), but if you use my code, I do get a discount on my next Hill House purchase. Some of these links may also be affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission if you make a purchase.

My Review

Fit & Sizing

I have the Ellie dress, which the brand recommends sizing down in, so that’s what I did. For reference, I’m typically a size small in most brands. My bra size is a 32A up top, so I’m smaller there, and on the bottom I’m usually between a size 2 or a size 6. In my Ellie dress, I got a size extra small and it fits great! The fit is definitely roomier because of the flowy skirt and the smocked bodice, so I think sizing down would work fine for most people, but I have heard some people buy their normal size with no problems. Each item on the website has its own sizing guide, so I would recommend checking those out if you’re unsure.

Comfort

In this regard, I can definitely say that the nap dress lives up to the hype. The fabric is very soft, and like I said above, it has a generous fit that’s in no way constricting or uncomfy. I haven’t yet, but I can totally see myself actually taking a nap in it. I’ve worn this dress for hours with no comfort issues. And a bonus point on comfort: the straps are wide enough where you can wear a normal bra instead of a strapless one and not worry about having the straps show. The bottom line: the nap dress is a very appropriate name for a super comfy garment!

Wearability

The nap dress is on the pricier side, so you may be wondering how “wearable” it is. I know with some more expensive garments, I’ve found myself getting scared to wear them because the washing instructions are so specific that I’m nervous to ruin them. The nap dress’s washing instructions said to machine wash cold with like colors and then tumble dry on low. I spilled iced tea on mine a few weeks ago (on brand, right?), and when I washed it, I did it in a delicates bag on a delicate cycle in cold water, then air dried it on a drying rack. The stain came out easily, and I didn’t notice any changes to the fit or fabric after washing. I did have to steam it after it was dried, which brings me to my next point in wearability: wrinkles.

If you know me, you know that one of my biggest (and admittedly kinda silly) pet peeves is when someone wears super wrinkled clothes. It’s not so much seeing this in everyday settings on random people; I know that things happen, especially when you’re out and about all day or commuting somewhere. However, I hate seeing other influencers and content creators post photos of clothes that look like they just pulled out of their clean laundry pile that’s been sitting around for days. It’s so easy to take the extra 5 minutes to steam a garment, and after that, they look so much better! All of this is to say that because the nap dress is cotton, it does wrinkle. However, I’ve found that if I give it a quick steam after washing, it looks a lot better than if I just left it all wrinkly. It does wrinkle, but they come out very easily and quickly!

Final Opinion

I totally recommend getting a nap dress. I love mine so much! It’s super comfortable, and I love the silhouettes that they come in. It’s one of those pieces of clothing that’s super easy to throw on and go, but it still looks amazing. If you’re hoping to pick one up during the next drop (which you totally should!), you can use this link for $20 off!

Styling Ideas

So now that I’m sure I’ve convinced you to purchase a nap dress, here’s the fun part: outfit ideas! The silhouettes and prints may make the dress seem very formal, but it’s super easy to dress up or down. For example, I’ve styled it two different ways below: one casual and one dressy. These are just two ways to style it, but the possibilities are nearly endless! Both of these are great options for the summer, but when the weather cools down, it looks super cute with a denim jacket too. I’ve also seen them layered over a turtleneck for a winter-y spin too!

Casual Nap Dress Look

Dressy Look

Discount Link

I know I already gave it above, but to end this off, I want to share my discount link in its own separate section for easy finding. It’s $20 off for you, and then 20% off for me as well. I’m not being paid to say this or anything; anyone can get one of these discount codes. It’s a great deal, though, which is why I wanted to share! As a reminder, the next nap dress collection drops on Wednesday, June 16th at noon eastern, so if you want one, be online then!

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