Today Logo

July 5, 2024, 9:00 PM UTC

By Chelsea Traber Burns

As a mom of two boys who is still breastfeeding, my checklist for new fashion pieces has become very practical: affordable, flexible enough to play with the kids, and easily accessible for nursing. Simple, but it doesn’t exactly lend itself to pulled-together professional styles. With these restrictions and my work-from-home setup, most of my dresses and more “office” items have been put aside and don’t usually catch my eye when shopping.

That is, until I got the opportunity to get my hands on this Free Assembly Utility Dress from Walmart. The price was right, and the style was classic. It seemed like a dress that could fit my lifestyle — a rare find at this point! — so I had to give it a try.

Free Assembly Belted Utility Dress

Belted Utility Dress

$34.00

What we like

Shaping
Flattering

Something to note

Sizes/colors are limited

Colorways: 4 | Sizes: XS-XXL | Fabric: 100% cotton

Why I like this utility dress

The classic silhouette suits me

I’ve come to find that most dresses come in one of two silhouettes: pillowcase (oversized) or cling wrap (you get the gist). There’s nothing wrong with either, but that’s why I was elated to find this classic shape that cinches in at the waist and flares out to an A-line skirt, giving me a more balanced best of both worlds.

I love that you can dress this dress up or down and make small tweaks to make it your own. For instance, the sleeves are a bit of a cap sleeve, but I rolled them up to show more of my shoulder. For another occasion, I took off the included belt to swap in a leather one just to change up the style. I also did this with shoes — heeled clogs for a baby shower versus my favorite Birkenstocks for a walk around the block.

There are only four colorways, but there’s something for everyone—two solids and two patterns. I honestly had a hard time choosing which color to buy because they’re all so good. Sizes in certain colors are limited, but I’m so happy with the “Jelly Bean Combo” that I chose. (Plus, in my current mom-of-little-ones era, I love a pattern because it hides stains so well!)

I don't have to compromise on comfort

I can confidently say this dress is pretty true to size. I’m 5’4” and around 120 pounds, and I opted for a S. That said, the sizes can be flexible because the fit is very forgiving with the A-line skirt and elastic waist. I also love that it’s 100% cotton, which I believe is what allowed me to comfortably wear it from morning to night.

But my favorite part about this dress might be the fact that someone who complimented me on it, asked if it was from Anthropologie. That, in my book, might be the best compliment you can get.