Looking Like a Princess Every Day isn't Just a Fairytale

I don't know about you, but I grew up loving every fairytale story I ever read about or saw in the movies. Even now, as an adult, I still love all things princess related. And I'm clearly not alone. I'm not sure if you've recently seen Lili Reinheart as she promotes her upcoming movie The Love Hypothesis. While her looks promoting the movie in general are a tribute to legendary romance movie heroines, one in particular has taken the internet by storm. The dress she wore paying homage to one of my favorite movies and performances - Drew Barrymore's portrayal of Cinderella in the 1998 movie Ever After - has captivated millions, including me. Her Rodarte gown echoes the dress Drew wore in the iconic scene where she attends the ball. The silvery creation features an off-the-shoulder and empire silhouette, along with the puff sleeves and intricate beadwork that made that iconic dress both unique, ethereal, feminine and regal.

But dressing like a princess isn't just for royalty - whether on or off screen. There's a way to look majestic without also looking like you're wearing a costume. Even if you're chronially ill. I'll be honest - this is a look I wear often. A lot of princess and fairytale-inspired clothes are actually very sensitive body friendly. There's no better feeling than leaving the house in something that makes you feel like a princess. In fact, that's often my barometer for selecting anything from an outfit to accessories to jewelry. If I'm feeling like a princess when I'm wearing it, then it's a yes. But I digress. Here are some styles that'll have you feeling like the princess you are in the most comfortable way.

A smocked dress/babydoll top

Some of my favorite pieces fit this description. One is a dress with a smocked bodice. I got it in a floral print to increase the feminine factor. Where the smocking ends, the material just skims over the body, making it both easy and flattering to wear. I wear it with cute sneakers, because my feet can't wear anything else right now. The other is a smocked babydoll top with sleeves that can be worn either off the shoulder or as a tank. The smocking is incredibly comfortable, and the babydoll silhouette means that it floats over the stomach area, which can be sensitive for many of us. In both cases, the ruffle and smocked details also add femininity and a definite princess vibe. I pair the top with leggings and cute sneakers so it's still modern. And now that it's fall, you can pair the tank with a cozy, delicate cardigan, or get the long sleeve version. So if you can snag a smocked dress or smocked babydoll top with some ruffle or tiered detail, it will be comfortable, easy to wear, and fit for a princess.

Empire waist dress

Nothing says "fairytale" more than an empire waist. Not to mention that it is regarded as one of the most universally flattering silhouettes. It should hit just under the bust, which happens to be the narrowest part of our bodies. The material just flows from there, skimming over the parts of us that are often the most sensitive. Not only is it figure flattering and ultra comfortable, it also evokes a regal air. Remembering Ever After, I think most - if not all - of the gowns worn in that movie had an empire waist. It instantly evokes an ethereal, majestic, feminine vibe. And so will you when you wear it! Pair it with your favorite ballet flats and you'll be ready for a meet-cute with a prince!

Off the shoulder silhouette

In my opinion, the off the shoulder silhouette is the most romantic of them all. It is the epitome of both femininiy and regality. Whether wearing an off the shoulder top or dress, doing so adds drama and sophistication of majestic proportions. If you select this silhouette in a knit, cotton, cotton-spandex blend (for extra stretch), or other comfortable material, it will be soft and forgiving, and have all of the style, and none of the structure and discomfort. Getting one in a delicate, feminine color or print, or, in contrast, a royal blue or purple hue, will only add to the fairytale vibes. As far as bras are concerned, you can wear a comfortable one in the same color as your top or dress, making it look like you have a tank on underneath, or get a super comfortable wireless strapless bra. Some of them are made with soft cotton and almost look like tube tops, which means you'll get all the benefit of a bra but none of its uncomfortable features.

Whimsical accessories

If you're low on energy, you can also invoke royalty through the accessories you wear. Maybe a necklace with a crown, glass slipper or carriage pendant if you're going for a more overt princess vibe. You could also do floral or butterfly inspired earrings, necklaces or rings. A headband with flower detail can add some fairytale whimsy as well. If you or someone you know is good with hair, a french braid - whether single, pigtail or around the crown in a headband style - adds a touch of romance to any look. Even a regular braid can achieve that fairytale aesthetic, too. Another option would be wearing your hair down with tiny braids her and there. They even sell headbands with braids already on it, and clip-in braids, so if you're unable to wield a brush or do a braid, all you have to do is match your hair color to the headband or clip-in and you'll be instantly transformed into a maiden.

So there it is, miladies, surefire styling tips to bring fairytale vibes into your everyday life, no fairy godmother necessary. Until next time, stay fabulous!