Sainsbury's has seen a surge in demand for its £12 vintage-inspired tea dress, which has been ordered more than 100 times in the past 48 hours. The dress, available in pink and blue, is a budget-friendly alternative to similar styles worn by Princess Kate.
Design and Popularity
The tea dress features a fitted bodice, nipped-in waist, and softly flared skirt, a silhouette that became fashionable in the 1940s and remains a wardrobe staple. According to Who What Wear, a colourful and demure tea dress is a firm favourite of Princess Kate. In June, she wore a strawberry-red Rodarte tea dress with tiny white hearts at a Cancer Research UK reception.
While the Princess's dress carries a considerable price tag, the Sainsbury's version costs under £12. The pink version is the stronger seller, with only three sizes remaining at £11.25, though further stock may be available in stores. The blue dress, at the same price, comes in sizes 6, 8, 10, 16, 18, 20, 22, and 24.
Customer Reviews
The dress boasts an impressive four stars out of five on the Sainsbury's website. One customer shared: "Really lovely dress, great length for short women! Got in pink also! Fit is flattering and has pockets. Only just one negative it requires ironing after washing." Another added: "Lovely length for petite frame. As others said, small across the bust, so size up."
A third commented: "Lovely dress, but unfortunately too small around the chest. Nice colour and style, but for me, being plus size with a larger chest, not great shame." Someone else said: "I bought this in the blue as I previously bought the dress in pink. So pleased with fit material and comfort."
Styling and Alternatives
Sainsbury's description reads: "From our latest summer edit, our pink tea dress comes in a classic striped print and in a flattering mini length. Complete the summery look by pairing it with mule sandals." Both shades can be teamed with Sainsbury's Cream Woven Slip On Mule Sandals for £20, available in sizes 3 to 8.
For those seeking a dress more reminiscent of Princess Kate's style, Marks & Spencer stocks a Printed V-Neck Midi Tea Dress in red-and-white polka dots for £30. Alternatively, the Brave Soul midi tea dress in blue floral ditsy print at ASOS costs £21.25.
