• Open-collar V-neckline sits wide across the décolletage, giving the bodice a polished, open feel without plunging too deep
• Faux leather trim traces the collar and neckline edge, adding a clean contrast detail that draws the eye upward
• Fitted long sleeves and a nipped-in waist give the bodice a close, structured hold before releasing into the skirt
• The midi skirt falls in deep, sewn-down pleats that open out as you walk - there's genuine movement here, not just volume
• Midi length hits below the knee, sitting at a point that works equally well with knee-high boots or block-heeled courts

The faux leather trim at the collar is what sets this dress apart from a straightforward knit midi. It's a small detail, but it shifts the whole mood - turning what could read as purely casual into something far more considered. The bodice fits closely through the waist, and the pleated skirt has a satisfying weight to it, swinging rather than floating. That combination of structure above and movement below means it never looks stiff on the body. Style it as the model does here, with tall suede knee-high boots - the boot shaft meeting the hem creates a long, unbroken line that works particularly well for autumn and winter. For a family gathering or a relaxed lunch out, keep accessories simple: a small structured bag and delicate stud earrings let the dress do the talking. The open collar also makes it a natural candidate for layering - a fine roll-neck underneath extends its season without losing the neckline's shape.