Reformation Noele Dress (similar to the style here)
If you’ve spent any time scrolling for a wedding guest dress, holiday outfit or 'just because I want to look expensive' dress, you’ve almost definitely landed on Reformation. It’s one of those brands that sits in that very specific space of effortless, slightly sexy, very 'that girl in Notting Hill' dressing, but with a price tag and sizing reputation that raises a lot of questions.
I’ve worn Reformation for years now (everything from summer weddings to last-minute dinners where I needed to look put together in 10 minutes flat), so I wanted to put together a proper, honest, deep dive into Reformation dresses, Reformation sizing, and whether they’re actually worth it.
Let’s get into it.
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Who are Reformation?
Reformation started in Los Angeles with a pretty simple but powerful idea: make clothes that are both beautiful and more sustainable than traditional fast fashion.
They built their name on:
- Flattering, feminine silhouettes
- Vintage-inspired cuts with a modern twist
- Lower-impact fabrics and more transparent production practices
- A very 'cool girl' aesthetic that feels effortless but polished
In short: it’s the brand you buy when you want to look like you didn’t try too hard but still look like you absolutely understood the assignment.
Reformation Dresses Review (from real wear experience)
I’ll be honest, Reformation dresses are not throw on and forget pieces in the same way a jersey dress might be. They’re more structured, more intentional, and often more fitted.
But when they work, they really work.
What I consistently notice:
- The silhouettes are incredibly flattering (especially around the waist and bust)
- The fabrics feel lightweight but premium
- They photograph beautifully (important if you’re wedding guest dressing)
- They tend to feel more expensive than their actual price point
My personal favourites tend to be:
- Slip dresses for summer weddings like the Lilibeth Silk Dress
- Midi floral dresses for events where I want to feel polished but not overdressed like this beautiful Astrid dress
- More tailored styles for dinners and evening occasions like the Deniz Dress
When I wear Reformation I feel effortlessly put together.
Reformation Sizing – What is it really like?
Right, let’s talk about Reformation sizing.
This is one of the most searched questions online for a reason.
Does Reformation run small?
Short answer: yes, often slightly.
Long answer: it depends entirely on the style.
- Fitted dresses (especially silk or structured bodices): tend to run small
- Stretch or smocked styles: more true to size
- Mini dresses: can be quite snug through hips and bust
- Midi dresses: usually more forgiving
If you are between sizes, I almost always size up in Reformation, particularly for anything with a zip or fitted waist.
Are Reformation dresses true to size?
Not consistently. And I think this is where people get frustrated.
The most reliable approach is:
- Check garment measurements (not just dress size)
- Read reviews on the specific item
- Don’t assume your size is universal across styles
Reformation is one of those brands where you might be a UK 8 in one dress and a UK 10 in another.
Are Reformation dresses worth it?
This is the question everyone really wants answered.
In my opinion: yes they are but selectively.
They’re worth it if:
- You want occasionwear that feels elevated and timeless
- You struggle to find flattering dresses on the high street
- You value fit, cut, and silhouette over trend-led pieces
They’re less worth it if:
- You want ultra-flexible sizing
- You prefer low-maintenance fabrics that don’t crease
- You’re looking for everyday throw-on basics
Think of Reformation as investment occasionwear, not everyday fashion.
Are Reformation dresses good for wedding guests?
Yes, this is arguably where they shine most.
A Reformation wedding guest dress usually gives:
- Effortless elegance like the beautiful Daniela Silk Dress
- Photogenic prints and silhouettes like the Oren Silk Dress
- A slightly fashion-forward feel without stealing attention
They sit in that perfect sweet spot of looking amazing without outshining the bride.
Do Reformation dresses crease easily?
Yes, some do.
Especially:
- Linen blends
- Silk-style fabrics
- Lightweight viscose pieces
If you’re travelling, I’d always hang them up immediately and steam rather than iron where possible. They’re beautiful, but not low-maintenance and this is obviously not limited to Reformation, it's the fabric that makes it that way.
Is Reformation sustainable?
Reformation positions itself as a sustainability-led brand, and they are more transparent than many mainstream fashion labels.
They focus on:
- Lower-impact fabrics
- Deadstock materials where possible
- More responsible manufacturing
- Tracking and publishing environmental impact data on products
However, like all brands in this space, 'sustainable' is not an absolute, it’s more about progress over perfection.
Where to buy Reformation in the UK
Most people in the UK shop directly via Reformation online store.
They also occasionally stock in premium retailers, but the full range is almost always online.
Final thoughts: why Reformation keeps pulling me back
Every time I think I’ve found alternatives to Reformation, I end up circling back.
Because what they do really well is consistency in aesthetic, those clean lines, flattering waists, and that slightly undone elegance that works for weddings, dinners, holidays, and everything in between.
Yes, the sizing can be inconsistent. Yes, you sometimes need to play trial and error. But when you get the right piece, it becomes one of those dresses you keep reaching for because it just does something to how you feel in it.
And ultimately, that’s why Reformation still earns its place in my wardrobe.
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