Universal Standard is a plus size contemporary brand focused on providing you great quality items that are mainstays in your wardrobe. There are pieces in every person's wardrobe that are mainstays, and Universal Standard is all about providing great quality pieces that will never go out of style. If you want clothing straight from the runways, you won't find that here. What you will find are great dresses, button ups, pants, and even coats that are pure classics.

Universal Standard is a fairly new brand, but they are making their presence known. The brand just finished a 12 city tour focused on looking for their next model, as well as hosting a pop up shop. Hosting pop up shops in different cities is a great way to see and try on items in person. The brand is online, but I know for me when I am interested in a new brand having the opportunity to feel and try on the clothes really makes the difference. No two brands fit the same so having the option to try is always an added bonus.

I was given an opportunity to try one of their pieces from their upcoming collaboration collection with Danielle Brooks (acclaimed actress from Orange Is The New Black). The USxDB collection features three pieces in collaboration with the actress. I went with the Dani Sweater Dress in Aubergine. Since the temps are dropping, I wanted to get a piece from the collection that would be extremely versatile despite the changes in weather. This sweater dress was a no brainer. What I love most about the dress, is that you can switch up the collar. I am wearing it like a cowl neck sweater dress since it was chilly today, but you can also wear it as a hoodie (like I did below), or completely off the shoulder.

I decided on Aubergine since I need some more color in my winter wardrobe. I gravitate heavily towards blacks and greys in the winter, and this was my chance to break the cycle. The dress is made of wool and cashmere so on this chilly day here in NYC, I was warm. It's the perfect length for me to wear as is, or with a great pair of leggings. From reading reviews from other blogger boo's that attended their pop up shops their sizing was true to size, so I went with a M which is a 18/20. I won't lie, I was extremely impressed with the quality of the dress. There are a lot of brands that are contemporary but the quality is not there. This is not the case. The quality is impeccable, and yes the price tag is up there, but there are some things I am willing to spend a little more on if I know it will stand the test the time. This dress is definitely an item that is worth it.

The collection will be available online tomorrow so definitely check it out!