Antonio Melani Roxanne Dress

My Personal Journey with a Wardrobe Game-Changer

When it comes to finding that perfect dress that seamlessly transitions from boardroom to ballroom, my search ended with the Antonio Melani Roxanne Dress. After years of collecting pieces that either worked for work or for play—but rarely both—I’ve finally discovered a true wardrobe investment that delivers unparalleled versatility and timeless style. Today, I’m sharing everything you need to know about this remarkable dress, from its impeccable design to styling tips that will elevate your look for any occasion.

As someone who’s spent countless hours searching for the perfect dress that doesn’t compromise on quality, comfort, or style, I can confidently say that the Roxanne Dress has become my go-to recommendation for friends and family alike. Let me take you through my comprehensive guide to this exceptional garment.

Understanding the Antonio Melani Brand: A Brief Background

Before diving into the specifics of the Roxanne Dress, it’s worth understanding the brand behind this creation. Antonio Melani has established itself as a premium women’s fashion label known for its sophisticated designs and exceptional craftsmanship. The brand focuses on creating timeless pieces that emphasize feminine silhouettes while maintaining a contemporary edge.

I first discovered Antonio Melani during a shopping trip with my mother about six years ago. She had been loyal to the brand for years, praising their consistent sizing and quality construction. What began as a mother-daughter shopping day turned into my personal love affair with a brand that understands how to make women feel confident and polished.

The Antonio Melani collection typically features elegant dresses, tailored separates, and refined accessories that cater to the professional woman who doesn’t want to sacrifice style for function. The Roxanne Dress perfectly embodies this philosophy, which is why it’s become such a staple in my wardrobe.

The Exquisite Design of the Antonio Melani Roxanne Dress

From the moment I first laid eyes on the Roxanne Dress, I was struck by its sophisticated design elements. The dress features a flattering A-line silhouette that skims the body in all the right places without being constricting. The carefully placed seams create a subtle structure that enhances the natural curves while maintaining a professional appearance.

One of the most distinctive features of the Roxanne Dress is its neckline. The slightly scooped neck provides a feminine touch without being revealing, making it appropriate for professional settings while still offering a touch of elegance. The neckline is finished with a delicate binding that adds a refined detail to the overall design.

The sleeves of the Roxanne Dress deserve special mention. They fall at that perfect three-quarter length that’s universally flattering and practical year-round. Not too short for air-conditioned offices, not too long for warmer days—it’s this thoughtful design element that exemplifies Antonio Melani’s understanding of a working woman’s needs.

The dress falls just at or slightly below the knee, depending on your height. This length strikes the perfect balance between professional and versatile, allowing you to wear the dress in virtually any setting without feeling over or underdressed.

What truly sets the Roxanne Dress apart is its subtle back vent, which provides ease of movement without compromising the clean lines of the dress. This small but significant detail shows the level of consideration that goes into the functional aspects of the garment—a hallmark of quality design.

Fabric and Construction: The Foundation of Quality

The moment you touch the Roxanne Dress, you’ll understand why it commands its price point. The fabric is a substantial yet breathable blend that primarily features a high-quality polyester with just the right amount of stretch from added elastane. This combination creates a material that holds its shape throughout the day while still allowing for comfortable movement.

I’ve owned my Roxanne Dress for nearly two years now, and despite regular wear, it shows minimal signs of aging. The fabric resists wrinkles remarkably well, making it an ideal choice for travel or long workdays. After a full day of meetings, I can still transition to an evening event without needing to change or press the dress.

The construction of the dress speaks to Antonio Melani’s commitment to quality. Each seam is precisely finished, with no loose threads or uneven stitching to be found. The hidden back zipper operates smoothly and is reinforced to prevent the fabric from catching—a small detail that signals thoughtful construction.

The dress is fully lined with a soft, lightweight material that prevents transparency and adds to the overall comfort. This lining also helps the dress glide over undergarments without clinging, creating a smooth silhouette regardless of body type.

Perhaps most impressively, the Roxanne Dress maintains its shape after multiple wearings and cleanings. This resilience is a testament to the quality of both the materials and construction techniques employed by Antonio Melani.

Available Colors and Seasonal Variations

When I first purchased the Roxanne Dress, I opted for the classic black version, knowing it would provide maximum versatility in my wardrobe. However, I was delighted to discover that Antonio Melani offers this style in a range of sophisticated colors that change seasonally.

The permanent collection typically includes black, navy, and a rich burgundy that the brand calls “merlot.” These core colors offer exceptional wearability and can be styled for virtually any occasion.

Seasonal colors add excitement to the collection, with past offerings including emerald green, cobalt blue, and a stunning blush pink that I added to my collection last spring. The fall/winter collections tend to feature deeper jewel tones like forest green or plum, while spring/summer brings lighter options like soft coral or sky blue.

For those looking to make a bolder statement, Antonio Melani occasionally releases the Roxanne Dress in subtle patterns. I’ve seen a gorgeous pinstripe version and a subtle herringbone that adds visual interest while maintaining the dress’s professional appeal.

It’s worth noting that not all colors are available year-round, and limited edition colors often sell out quickly. If you spot a seasonal color that speaks to you, I’d recommend purchasing promptly rather than waiting for a sale.

Where to Purchase the Antonio Melani Roxanne Dress

The most reliable place to purchase the Antonio Melani Roxanne Dress is through Dillard’s, the exclusive retailer for the brand. You can find the dress both in physical Dillard’s stores and on their website. I’ve found that the in-store experience allows you to appreciate the fabric quality and try multiple sizes to find your perfect fit.

However, the online shopping experience at Dillard’s is equally seamless, with detailed size charts and customer reviews that help guide your selection. I’ve purchased Antonio Melani pieces both in-store and online and have been pleased with both experiences.

For those who prefer secondary markets, the Roxanne Dress occasionally appears on platforms like Poshmark or eBay, particularly in discontinued colors. These can sometimes be found at a discount, though I’d recommend careful verification of authenticity and condition when purchasing through these channels.

It’s worth mentioning that Antonio Melani does not currently operate its own standalone stores or direct-to-consumer website. While this limits purchase options somewhat, it does ensure consistent pricing and availability through Dillard’s established retail network.

Price Point and Value Proposition

Let’s address the elephant in the room—the Roxanne Dress isn’t inexpensive. Typically priced between $149 and $179 depending on the season and specific design details, it represents a significant investment for many shoppers. However, after owning several pieces from various price points, I can confidently say that the Roxanne Dress offers exceptional value through its versatility, durability, and timeless design.

When I calculate the cost-per-wear of my Roxanne Dresses, they emerge as some of the most economical items in my wardrobe. I’ve worn my black version to client meetings, conferences, dinner parties, and even a theater opening—each time receiving compliments on my polished appearance.

The dress requires minimal maintenance, saving on dry cleaning costs compared to more delicate garments. Its classic design means it doesn’t fall victim to rapidly changing trends, giving it longevity in your wardrobe that fast fashion simply cannot match.

For those working within a budget, I recommend watching for Dillard’s semi-annual sales, which typically occur in January and June. During these events, the Roxanne Dress can sometimes be found at 30-40% off retail price. Signing up for Dillard’s rewards program can also provide advance notice of these sales and occasional special pricing for members.

Sizing and Fit: Finding Your Perfect Roxanne

One of the aspects I appreciate most about Antonio Melani is the consistency of their sizing across different styles. The Roxanne Dress typically runs true to size, though there are a few nuances worth noting when selecting your size.

The dress is available in standard misses sizes 0-16, with some colors also offered in petite sizes. For reference, I wear a size 8 in most American brands, and the size 8 Roxanne fits me perfectly. The slightly structured fabric offers enough give to accommodate minor fluctuations in weight without appearing too loose or too tight.

For those between sizes, I generally recommend sizing up rather than down in the Roxanne Dress. The A-line silhouette is forgiving, and a slightly larger size can always be taken in by a tailor if necessary. Sizing down may result in pulling across the bust or shoulders, which affects both comfort and the clean lines of the dress.

The dress is designed to skim rather than cling to the body, creating a flattering silhouette for a wide range of body types. The defined waist provides shape without being restrictive, while the A-line skirt smooths over the hips and thighs.

For petite frames (under 5’4″), I recommend considering the petite sizing, which adjusts not only the length but also the proportions of the dress to better suit smaller frames. At 5’7″, I find the regular length hits just at my knee, which I consider ideal for versatile wear.

Occasion Versatility: From Office to Evening

The true magic of the Roxanne Dress lies in its chameleon-like ability to transition between occasions with simple styling changes. This versatility is what initially sold me on the investment, and it continues to impress me with each wear.

In a professional setting, the Roxanne Dress projects confidence and competence without trying too hard. I typically pair it with closed-toe pumps in a coordinating color and simple pearl or gold stud earrings for client meetings or presentations. A structured blazer can be added for more conservative environments or cooler days.

For after-work events, I simply swap my daytime accessories for something with more presence—statement earrings, a bold bracelet, or a metallic clutch can transform the dress instantly. Exchanging office-appropriate pumps for strappy heels completes the transition from day to evening.

Weekend brunches or casual social gatherings call for a more relaxed interpretation. I’ve found that pairing the Roxanne with a denim jacket and flat sandals or ankle boots (depending on the season) creates an effortlessly chic look that doesn’t feel overdressed for casual settings.

For formal occasions, the simplicity of the Roxanne creates a perfect canvas for luxurious accessories. A crystal necklace, metallic heels, and an elegant updo elevate the dress for evening affairs. I’ve worn my navy Roxanne to multiple wedding rehearsal dinners with different accessory combinations, and it’s never failed to look appropriate and stylish.

Styling Tips for Maximum Versatility

After nearly two years of incorporating the Roxanne Dress into my regular rotation, I’ve discovered countless ways to style it for different looks and occasions. Here are some of my favorite combinations:

For a classic office look, I pair the black Roxanne with a camel colored fitted blazer, black leather pumps with a moderate heel (around 2.5 inches), and delicate gold jewelry. This combination works year-round and never fails to look polished and professional.

In transitional seasons, I layer a thin turtleneck underneath the burgundy Roxanne, add opaque tights in a coordinating color, and finish with ankle boots for a sophisticated fall or winter ensemble. This layering technique extends the wearability of the dress through colder months.

For summer events, the blush pink Roxanne pairs beautifully with nude sandals and a statement necklace in mixed metals. This combination feels fresh and feminine without being overly sweet.

When traveling for business, I rely on the navy Roxanne with a white blazer, creating a nautical-inspired look that transitions well from day meetings to dinner. The wrinkle-resistant fabric means it emerges from my suitcase ready to wear with minimal touching up.

For holiday gatherings, the emerald green seasonal version looks festive yet sophisticated when paired with gold accessories and black suede pumps. A simple change to sparkly earrings adjusts the formality level as needed.

The versatility of the Roxanne Dress extends to outerwear pairings as well. I’ve found it works beautifully with a trench coat for rainy days, a tailored wool coat for winter, or a lightweight cardigan for air-conditioned environments.

Maintenance and Care: Ensuring Longevity

With a garment of this quality and price point, proper care is essential to ensure its longevity. The care label on the Roxanne Dress typically recommends dry cleaning, which is certainly the safest option for maintaining the fabric’s structure and finish.

However, I’ve discovered through careful experimentation that the dress can sometimes be successfully hand washed in cold water with a gentle detergent like Woolite. After hand washing, I roll the dress in a clean towel to remove excess moisture, then lay flat to dry, gently reshaping as needed. A light steam afterward restores the crisp appearance.

That said, I still recommend dry cleaning for deep cleaning or if the dress has visible stains. The investment in proper cleaning helps preserve the color vibrancy and fabric structure over time.

Between wearings, I hang my Roxanne Dresses on padded hangers to maintain their shape and prevent shoulder distortion. For storage between seasons, I use a breathable garment bag to protect from dust while still allowing air circulation.

Minor pills can be gently removed with a fabric shaver designed for delicate materials. I check for loose threads or minor repairs after each cleaning to address any issues before they become more significant problems.

With proper care, the Roxanne Dress maintains its appearance remarkably well. My oldest version shows minimal signs of wear despite regular use over multiple years—a testament to both the quality of the garment and the effectiveness of appropriate maintenance.

Comparing the Roxanne to Other Antonio Melani Styles

While the Roxanne holds a special place in my wardrobe, Antonio Melani offers several other dress styles that might better suit different preferences or body types. Understanding how the Roxanne compares to these alternatives can help you make an informed decision.

The Roxanne features a more structured silhouette compared to the Sofia dress, another popular Antonio Melani style. The Sofia offers a softer drape and slightly more relaxed fit through the waist and hips, making it a good alternative for those who prefer less definition in their garments.

For those seeking more dramatic details, the Victoria dress includes similar quality construction but adds elements like asymmetrical hemlines or statement sleeves that create more visual interest. While these details make the Victoria less versatile for conservative environments, they do offer more personality for creative workplaces or social occasions.

The Roxanne has a more modest neckline compared to the Natalie dress, which features a V-neck design. For those who find boat or scoop necklines less flattering for their frame, the Natalie might be worth considering as an alternative.

In terms of fit, I’ve found the Roxanne to be slightly more generous through the hips compared to some other Antonio Melani sheaths. This makes it particularly suitable for pear-shaped figures or those who carry weight in their lower body.

Customer Reviews and Common Feedback

Before investing in my first Roxanne Dress, I spent considerable time researching customer reviews, both on Dillard’s website and through conversations with other Antonio Melani enthusiasts. The consistent themes in these reviews align with my personal experience.

Positive reviews frequently mention the exceptional versatility of the dress, with many customers echoing my experience of transitioning seamlessly between occasions. The quality construction and fabric durability also receive consistent praise, particularly from professionals who wear the dress regularly.

The most common criticism relates to the price point, though most reviewers ultimately conclude that the value justifies the investment. Some petite customers mentioned needing alterations for proper fit, suggesting that the petite sizing option might not perfectly accommodate all smaller frames.

Several reviews specifically highlighted the comfort of the dress during long wear, noting that unlike many structured garments, the Roxanne remains comfortable through full days of wear without sacrificing its polished appearance.

Interestingly, many reviews mentioned receiving compliments when wearing the dress, something I’ve experienced as well. The clean lines and elegant simplicity seem to register as “put together” without appearing ostentatious or trying too hard.

Alterations and Customization Options

While the Roxanne Dress fits beautifully off the rack for many women, alterations can enhance the fit for an even more polished appearance. I’ve had minimal alterations done to my collection, but there are several common modifications that can perfect the fit for your body type.

The most frequent alteration is hemming, particularly for petite women who purchase the standard size due to color or availability limitations. The clean lines and A-line shape make hemming relatively straightforward for an experienced tailor.

For women with narrower shoulders or smaller busts, taking in the bodice slightly can create a more customized fit. The princess seams of the Roxanne make this adjustment relatively simple while maintaining the integrity of the design.

Those with a pronounced waist-to-hip ratio might benefit from minor waist adjustments to prevent gapping at the back. This alteration requires more skill but can significantly enhance the fit for hourglass figures.

When considering alterations, I recommend wearing the undergarments and shoes you’ll typically pair with the dress to your tailor appointment. This ensures accurate measurements and appropriate length determination.

Most alterations for the Roxanne Dress range from $20-60 depending on the complexity and your local market. Even with these additional costs, the enhanced fit and extended wearability make alterations a worthwhile investment for a garment you’ll wear frequently.

Accessorizing the Antonio Melani Roxanne Dress

The clean, classic lines of the Roxanne Dress create an ideal canvas for accessories, allowing you to dramatically change the look and feel of the dress through thoughtful pairings. This adaptability has allowed me to create dozens of distinct looks from the same foundational piece.

For jewelry, the neckline of the Roxanne works beautifully with both statement necklaces and more delicate pieces. I find that a 16-18 inch necklace sits perfectly against the scooped neck, while longer pendants create a flattering vertical line. The simplified silhouette also accommodates statement earrings without appearing cluttered or overwhelming.

Belt options add another dimension to the Roxanne’s versatility. While the dress doesn’t come with a belt, adding a slim leather belt at the natural waist creates definition and introduces an additional color or texture to the look. I particularly enjoy pairing my navy Roxanne with a cognac leather belt for a subtle color contrast.

Scarves offer endless possibilities for customizing the Roxanne. A silk scarf tied at the neck creates a professional, slightly retro aesthetic, while a lightweight pashmina draped over the shoulders adds both warmth and color for transitional seasons.

Handbag pairings depend largely on the occasion. For work, I typically carry a structured tote or satchel that complements the clean lines of the dress. Evening events call for a clutch or small crossbody bag, preferably in a metallic finish or with subtle embellishments that elevate the overall look.

Footwear Pairings for Every Season

The versatility of the Roxanne Dress extends to footwear options, with suitable pairings for every season and occasion. The midi length works particularly well with various shoe heights and styles, allowing for significant wardrobe flexibility.

For spring and summer, I recommend nude or metallic sandals with a moderate heel for a lengthening effect that doesn’t compete with the dress. Flat sandals in a coordinating color also work beautifully for more casual interpretations.

Fall calls for pumps or ankle boots, depending on the desired level of formality. I particularly love pairing my burgundy Roxanne with cognac leather pumps for a rich autumnal combination that transitions well between professional and social settings.

Winter styling often includes knee-high boots and opaque tights for warmth without sacrificing style. Black suede boots with the emerald Roxanne create a sophisticated cold-weather ensemble that remains office-appropriate while providing practical warmth.

Year-round, a classic pointed-toe pump in a neutral shade creates a timeless pairing that works for virtually any setting. I keep black, nude, and navy options in my collection to coordinate with various Roxanne colors.

For those who prefer flats, the Roxanne pairs beautifully with pointed-toe ballet flats or loafers for a comfortable yet polished appearance. The A-line silhouette maintains its flattering proportions even without the height added by heels.

The Investment Value: Cost Per Wear Analysis

When evaluating the value of a higher-priced garment like the Roxanne Dress, I find it helpful to consider the cost per wear rather than focusing solely on the initial price tag. This perspective has helped me make peace with investing in quality pieces rather than accumulating cheaper alternatives.

Let’s consider a typical black Roxanne Dress purchased at full price for $169. If worn once weekly for work (approximately 50 wears per year) and occasionally for special events (adding another 10-15 wears annually), you could easily accumulate 60+ wears in the first year alone.

At 60 wears, the cost per wear drops to less than $3 per use in the first year. With proper care, the dress easily maintains its appearance for 3+ years of regular wear, potentially bringing the cost per wear below $1 over its lifetime.

Compare this to a lower-quality dress priced at $60 that might last through 20 wears before showing significant signs of wear or falling victim to changing trends. That less expensive dress actually costs $3 per wear without providing the versatility or longevity of the Roxanne.

For those who practice capsule wardrobing or minimalist fashion approaches, the Roxanne represents an ideal investment piece. Its classic design and exceptional versatility allow it to serve as a foundation for countless outfits while maintaining its relevance season after season.

Seasonal Adaptations for Year-Round Wear

One of the most impressive aspects of the Roxanne Dress is its adaptability throughout changing seasons. With thoughtful layering and accessories, this dress truly becomes a year-round wardrobe staple.

In spring, the Roxanne pairs beautifully with a lightweight cardigan or cropped jacket for variable temperatures. Pastel accessories bring seasonal freshness to even the most neutral dress colors.

Summer styling calls for minimal accessories and open footwear. The breathable fabric keeps you comfortable in air-conditioned environments without appearing too heavy for the season. The three-quarter sleeves provide ideal coverage for over-zealous office air conditioning without being too warm for outdoor transitions.

Fall is perhaps my favorite season for the Roxanne, particularly in jewel tones like burgundy or emerald. Layered with a tailored blazer or lightweight wool cardigan, the dress creates a sophisticated autumnal ensemble that transitions seamlessly from office to evening.

Winter requires more substantial layering, but the clean silhouette accommodates these additions without appearing bulky. Opaque tights, tall boots, and a well-structured coat transform the Roxanne into a practical yet polished cold-weather option.

The fabric weight of the Roxanne strikes an ideal balance—substantial enough to hang beautifully and provide modest coverage while remaining comfortable across seasons. This versatility significantly enhances the value proposition of the dress.

Conclusion: Why the Roxanne Dress Deserves a Place in Your Wardrobe

After extensive wear across multiple seasons and occasions, I can confidently recommend the Antonio Melani Roxanne Dress as a cornerstone investment for any professional woman’s wardrobe. Its exceptional versatility, quality construction, and timeless design create genuine value despite the higher initial price point.

What makes the Roxanne truly special is its ability to solve so many common wardrobe dilemmas. The “what to wear” question becomes significantly simpler when you have a garment that transitions effortlessly between contexts with minor accessory changes.

The dress embodies what I’ve come to value most in my wardrobe—pieces that serve multiple purposes, maintain their appearance over time, and consistently make me feel polished and confident. In a world of fast fashion and disposable clothing, the Roxanne represents a refreshing commitment to quality and longevity.

If you’re considering adding this dress to your collection, I recommend starting with a core color like black or navy that will provide maximum versatility. Once you’ve experienced the exceptional wearability of your first Roxanne, you might find yourself, like me, adding seasonal colors to your collection as your budget allows.

Ultimately, the Antonio Melani Roxanne Dress exemplifies the perfect balance of form and function—a wardrobe investment that continues to deliver value wear after wear, season after season, year after year. In my journey toward a more intentional, quality-focused wardrobe, the Roxanne has earned its place as an essential foundation piece that I reach for time and again.