Ali & Jay

Amazon is going to rule the world one day. The company seems to have its hands in every industry -- even fashion. Today's dress is from the Amazon brand, Ali & Jay, and was purchased for just $30.

Outfit Details

Dress: Ali & Jay Sleeveless Striped Midi Dress

When it comes to summer dresses, I'm all about ease. I want to put on a dress, no ironing required, and have the flexibility to wear it with any type of shoe (flats, sandals, etc.). This dress hits all the right notes...  and it's super cute, too.

Sizing advice: I've never bought anything from the Ali & Jay brand, so I wanted to pass on some sizing information. In my opinion, the dress runs true to size. I got an Extra Small, but probably would have been fine in a Small, too. The top stretches and the material flows easily over the hips, so either way, you should be fine. But I would order your normal size.

Shoes: Prada Bow Tie Platform Sandals (no longer available)

The neutral color scheme of the dress, with black, ivory and beige stripes, means it will work with black, nude or even white or ivory shoes. I had my pick of shoes to wear with this dress today, but I liked these Prada platform sandals best. They help 'dress' up the look, while wearing flats may have made it too casual. I can definitely see myself wearing this dress not only to work, but for weekend outings, too.

If you like this design, it's also available as a wide-legged jumpsuit. You can shop all items from the Ali & Jay brand on Amazon's website.

The Hankie Hem

I was introduced to the "hankie hem" when I purchased today's dress. A hankie hem is basically a fancy way to talk about an uneven hemline with hanging corners. The overall effect resembles a handkerchief... thus, the name!

I will always think of my dad when I think about handkerchiefs, mostly because he almost always had one with him when I was growing up. (He and I both suffer from bad allergies.) I'm not sure when he stopped carrying one... maybe when he realized they were not exactly hygienic. Ha!

Today's dress is also special because it represents another great deal I found on Amazon.com.

• Retail Value: $138
• Purchase Price on Amazon: $24.56

That's more than 80% off. Score!

Outfit of the Day Details

Dress: Taylor Dresses Hankie Hem Lacey Applique Fit and Flare Dress

The dress is still available on Amazon in most sizes, though it's listed at full-price again. It's just a waiting game now. You will have to strike when the price drops again (and it inevitably will).

Sandals: Manolo Blahnik Cellin Double T-Strap Patent Leather Sandals (no longer available)

I love black and white dresses because it allows you to be much more free, color wise, with your accessories. Today, though, I opted just for simple black shoes, though red sandals would have added a nice pop of color.

If you like t-strap sandals, here are some similar Manolos available at Saks.