Antonio Melani Set

When I first stepped into the polished world of corporate fashion, I found myself drowning in a sea of uninspired separates and cookie-cutter blazers. That all changed the day I discovered my first Antonio Melani set—a perfectly tailored jacket and skirt combo in the most sublime shade of midnight blue. The moment I slipped it on, something shifted. I stood taller. I felt more confident. I looked like the professional woman I aspired to be.

That was five years ago, and since then, my collection of Antonio Melani sets has grown to become the backbone of my wardrobe. These aren’t just clothes; they’re investments in my professional image and personal confidence. Through countless client meetings, presentations, and after-work events, these sets have proven themselves to be the most versatile and worthwhile investment pieces in my entire closet.

If you’re considering taking the plunge into Antonio Melani territory but aren’t quite sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve learned the ins and outs of this premium Dillard’s exclusive brand through years of personal experience, and I’m excited to share everything I know—from what exactly constitutes an “Antonio Melani set” to how to care for these investment pieces so they’ll serve you faithfully for years to come.

What Exactly Is an Antonio Melani Set?

When I talk about an Antonio Melani “set,” I’m referring to coordinated pieces designed to work perfectly together while maintaining the flexibility to mix and match with other items in your wardrobe. Typically, these sets include some combination of the following:

• A tailored blazer or jacket
• Matching pants or skirt (sometimes both are available for the ultimate in versatility)
• Occasionally, a coordinating blouse, shell, or dress

The magic of these sets lies in their cohesive design—the pieces are created to complement each other perfectly in terms of color, fabric, and styling. But unlike the matchy-matchy sets of decades past, Antonio Melani sets feel thoroughly modern. The individual pieces stand beautifully on their own, giving you multiple outfit options from a single purchase.

My first set consisted of a structured blazer with subtle peplum detailing at the waist and a pencil skirt that hit just at the knee. The pair cost me $320—not an insignificant amount for someone early in their career—but the cost-per-wear over the years has made it one of my most economical fashion decisions.

Where to Find These Coveted Sets

One of the first things to understand about Antonio Melani is that it’s a Dillard’s exclusive brand. This exclusivity is part of what makes these pieces special, but it also means your shopping options are somewhat limited.

When I’m hunting for a new Antonio Melani set, I always start at:

• Dillard’s retail locations: Nothing beats trying these pieces on in person to appreciate the exceptional fit and fabric quality
• Dillard’s online store: Perfect for when I know my size and want to browse the full selection
• Dillard’s outlet stores: Where I’ve scored some incredible deals on last-season sets

I’ve occasionally found Antonio Melani pieces on resale platforms like Poshmark and ThredUP, which can be treasure troves for discontinued styles or rare finds. The brand retention value is impressive—these pieces often sell for close to their original retail price even when pre-owned, which speaks volumes about their quality and desirability.

One spring, I was desperately searching for a particular linen blend blazer and pant set that had sold out in my size. After weeks of stalking the Dillard’s website, I finally found the exact set on Poshmark, unworn with tags still attached. The seller had purchased it on sale but never wore it, and I was able to negotiate a price that was about 30% below retail. That set became my go-to for summer client meetings for the next three years.

The Investment Question: Are Antonio Melani Sets Worth the Price?

Let’s address the elephant in the room—Antonio Melani sets aren’t cheap. Depending on the pieces and fabrication, you can expect to invest anywhere from $250 to $500 for a complete set. For many of us, that’s a significant clothing expenditure that requires justification.

After years of wearing these sets in various professional contexts, I can say with complete confidence: yes, they are absolutely worth the investment. Here’s why:

1. The quality is exceptional. From the precision of the stitching to the substantial feel of the fabrics, these pieces are built to last. I have sets from five years ago that still look nearly new.
2. The fit is transformative. There’s something about the way Antonio Melani pieces are cut that just works for a wide range of body types. The proportions are thoughtfully designed to flatter and enhance.
3. The versatility is unmatched. Each piece can be styled dozens of ways, effectively giving you multiple outfits from a single purchase.
4. The impression they make is noticeable. I’ve received more compliments on my Antonio Melani sets than on any other workwear I own. There’s a polish and sophistication that elevates your entire professional presence.

I remember hesitating before purchasing my first set, wondering if I could justify the expense when there were certainly cheaper options available. Five years and countless wears later, those cheaper alternatives would have been replaced multiple times over, while my Antonio Melani pieces continue to serve me beautifully.

A Style for Every Professional: Types of Antonio Melani Sets

What I love most about Antonio Melani sets is the range of styles available to suit different workplace environments and personal preferences. Over the years, I’ve collected several different types:

The Classic Suiting Sets

These are the workhorses of the collection—impeccably tailored blazers with matching skirts or pants in traditional suiting fabrics. They feature clean lines, timeless silhouettes, and sophisticated neutral colors. My navy pinstripe set falls into this category and has seen me through more job interviews and important presentations than I can count.

The Statement Sets

For those days when you want to command attention, Antonio Melani offers sets in bold colors and distinctive patterns. I have a crimson red skirt suit that I save for days when I’m leading client presentations or speaking at industry events. The rich color communicates confidence without being overwhelming.

The Seasonal Fabric Sets

One of my favorite things about the brand is how they adapt their classic styling to seasonal-appropriate fabrics. Their lightweight linen blend sets are perfect for summer, while wool-blend options keep me polished and warm during winter months. The tropical weight wool blazer and pant set I purchased last fall transitions beautifully across three seasons.

The Dress-and-Jacket Combinations

For days when I want a more feminine look while maintaining professionalism, Antonio Melani’s dress and matching jacket sets are perfect. I have a sheath dress with a coordinating cropped jacket in a subtle tweed that’s my go-to for important meetings where I want to project both authority and approachability.

Styling Magic: From Office to Evening

The true beauty of Antonio Melani sets is their versatility. I’ve worn pieces from the same set to morning board meetings and evening cocktail events with just a few styling tweaks. Here’s how I transform my sets for different occasions:

For Conservative Office Environments

When I’m meeting with traditional clients or working in more formal settings, I wear the full set as designed—blazer, matching bottom, and a simple silk shell or button-down underneath. Pearl earrings and classic pumps complete the professional look.

For Creative Workplace Settings

In more relaxed or creative environments, I’ll break up the set. The blazer might be paired with dark denim and a graphic tee, or the skirt with a casual sweater and ankle boots. This approach maintains professionalism while adding a touch of creative personality.

For After-Work Events

Transitioning from day to evening is where these sets truly shine. For post-work dinners or networking events, I’ll often swap the daytime shell for a silky camisole, add statement jewelry, and change into more dramatic shoes. The structure of the Antonio Melani pieces provides the perfect foundation for evening enhancements.

Last year, I had a particularly challenging day that included a morning client presentation followed by an industry award ceremony in the evening. I wore my Antonio Melani black and white tweed set with a simple white shell and nude pumps for day, then transformed the look for evening by swapping in a black silk camisole, statement earrings, and red heels. I received compliments at both events, despite wearing essentially the same outfit.

Finding Your Perfect Fit: Sizing in Antonio Melani Sets

One question I’m frequently asked by friends considering their first Antonio Melani purchase is about sizing. In my experience, the brand runs fairly true to size, though there are some nuances worth knowing:

• Blazers tend to have a tailored, slightly fitted silhouette. If you’re between sizes or prefer a more relaxed fit, sizing up is recommended.
• Pants typically offer a mid-rise that sits comfortably at the natural waist. The leg shapes vary from slim to wide depending on the style.
• Skirts often feature a classic pencil shape with just enough stretch to be comfortable for all-day wear.

The brand offers sizes 0-16 in most styles, with some pieces available in petite sizing as well. This range accommodates most body types, though I’ve found that the cut tends to favor hourglass and pear-shaped figures particularly well.

One aspect I particularly appreciate is the consistency of sizing across different styles and seasons. Once you determine your Antonio Melani size, you can generally count on it remaining the same across different pieces—a rarity in women’s fashion that makes online shopping much more reliable.

When I first discovered the brand, I was between sizes, fluctuating between a 6 and an 8 depending on the cut. After trying both, I found that I consistently preferred the fit of the size 8 in Antonio Melani blazers, which gave me just enough room through the shoulders and bust while still maintaining a defined waist. For bottoms, I can wear either size comfortably, depending on the specific style and how I want it to fit.

Luxury in the Details: Materials Used in Antonio Melani Sets

What initially drew me to Antonio Melani—and what keeps me coming back—is the quality of the materials. These aren’t fast-fashion pieces made to last a season; they’re crafted from premium fabrics designed for longevity and beautiful drape.

The most common materials you’ll find in Antonio Melani sets include:

• Wool blends: These offer the structure and polish of wool with added stretch for comfort and ease of movement. My winter sets in this material resist wrinkles beautifully through long days.
• Linen blends: For summer, their linen-blend pieces provide breathability while incorporating enough synthetic fiber to minimize the excessive wrinkling pure linen is known for.
• Tropical weight wool: This magical fabric is lightweight enough for year-round wear in many climates while maintaining the elegant drape wool is known for.
• Luxe crepe: Many of their dressier pieces utilize a substantial crepe that moves beautifully and resists showing wear.
• Stretch twill and gabardine: These cotton-blend fabrics offer the perfect combination of structure and comfort for everyday professional wear.

What I’ve noticed across all these materials is thoughtful construction—lined pieces where appropriate, substantial enough to hang well without being heavy, and remarkably resistant to the pilling and wear that plagues less expensive brands.

My oldest set features a blazer lined in the smoothest satin that still feels luxurious after countless wears. The attention to these hidden details makes all the difference in how the garments wear over time.

Caring for Your Investment: Maintaining Antonio Melani Sets

When you invest in quality pieces, proper care ensures they’ll serve you well for years to come. I’ve developed a routine for my Antonio Melani sets that has kept them looking nearly new despite regular wear:

Everyday Care

• I always hang blazers and jackets on proper wooden hangers as soon as I remove them. This maintains the shape of the shoulders and prevents wrinkles.
• Skirts and pants are hung on clip hangers, careful to position the clips where any potential marks won’t show.
• I use a clothing brush after each wear to remove any dust or surface debris before it can settle into the fabric.

Cleaning Protocol

• Despite what the care label might suggest, I rarely dry clean my sets unless they’re visibly soiled. Over-cleaning can break down fibers and reduce the lifespan of quality garments.
• For most pieces, spot cleaning and airing out between wears is sufficient. I keep a quality fabric spot remover on hand for minor emergencies.
• When dry cleaning is necessary, I use a reputable cleaner that specializes in designer clothing and specifically request light pressing to avoid crushing textured fabrics.

Storage Solutions

• During the off-season, I store pieces in breathable garment bags with cedar blocks to deter moths.
• Before storing, I ensure everything is perfectly clean and completely dry to prevent any discoloration or mildew issues.

This might sound like a lot of effort, but it’s become second nature—a small investment of time that protects my financial investment in these pieces. The result is a collection of sets that continue to look pristine and professional year after year.

Finding the Deals: Discounts on Antonio Melani Sets

While Antonio Melani sets are worth their full retail price in terms of quality and longevity, I’m always on the lookout for opportunities to add to my collection at a discount. Over the years, I’ve discovered several reliable ways to save:

• Dillard’s semi-annual sales: These typically occur in January and June, offering substantial discounts on past-season merchandise.
• Dillard’s additional percentage off clearance events: These unannounced events can take already-reduced items down to truly impressive prices. Some of my best finds have come from these sales.
• Dillard’s credit card promotions: Cardholders occasionally receive special discount days or points offers that can be applied to Antonio Melani purchases.
• Dillard’s outlet stores: These carry past-season Antonio Melani pieces at reduced prices, though selection can be hit-or-miss.

My most remarkable deal came during an additional 40% off clearance event, where I found a stunning emerald green blazer and pant set that had been reduced from its original $375 to $225, and then with the additional discount, came to just $135. The set was from the previous fall season but in a classic cut that remains perfectly current.

I’ve learned that patience and flexibility are key when hunting for deals on these sets. Being open to colors or styles you might not have initially considered can lead to fantastic discoveries at excellent prices.

Popular Stars: Bestselling Antonio Melani Sets

Through conversations with sales associates and my own observations of what consistently sells out quickly, I’ve identified some perennial favorites in the Antonio Melani collection:

• The Stella Blazer and Matching Separates: This slightly fitted blazer with distinctive seaming details pairs with both a pencil skirt and slim pants. It’s available every season in different fabrications and colors.
• The Harper Pantsuit: With a more relaxed, slightly longer blazer and wide-leg trousers, this set offers a modern silhouette that works beautifully across body types.
• The Charlotte Dress and Jacket: This sheath dress and cropped jacket combination consistently appears in seasonal fabrications and is perfect for more formal workplace environments.

My personal favorite, which I recommend to anyone new to the brand, is the Stella blazer with its matching pencil skirt. The proportions are impeccable, and it manages to be both completely classic and subtly modern at the same time.

Antonio Melani for Special Occasions: Beyond the Office

While I primarily wear my Antonio Melani sets for work, they’re equally valuable for special occasions that call for polished attire:

• Professional events: Industry conferences, networking receptions, and awards ceremonies all call for exactly the type of sophisticated presence these sets provide.
• Job interviews: Nothing communicates competence and attention to detail like a beautifully tailored suit set.
• Important personal occasions: I’ve worn my sets to everything from parent-teacher conferences (when I want to make an impression) to court appearances for a friend’s adoption proceedings.

The sets that transition most beautifully to formal occasions tend to be those in luxurious fabrics like crepe or with special details like subtle embellishment or interesting textures. My black crepe set with satin lapels is technically office-appropriate but has served me beautifully at evening events when paired with the right accessories.

How Do Antonio Melani Sets Compare to Other Designer Options?

Having tried professional wear across various price points, I can offer some perspective on how Antonio Melani sets compare to both higher-end designer options and other mainstream brands:

Compared to luxury designer suiting (think Hugo Boss, Theory, or Brooks Brothers), Antonio Melani offers comparable quality and fit at a significantly lower price point. The main differences I’ve noticed are in the exclusivity of fabrics and some of the finer construction details, but these differences rarely impact the overall appearance or longevity of the garment.

When compared to other department store brands in a similar price range (like Tahari or Calvin Klein), Antonio Melani consistently offers superior fabric quality, more thoughtful design details, and better overall construction. The fit is also notably more flattering across different body types.

Against budget-friendly options like those found at mass retailers, there’s simply no comparison in terms of quality, fit, or longevity. While the initial investment is higher, the cost-per-wear makes Antonio Melani the more economical choice over time.

The Color Palette: Available Shades in Antonio Melani Sets

One aspect of Antonio Melani sets that I particularly appreciate is their thoughtful color palette. Rather than chasing fast-fashion trends, the brand offers:

• Core neutrals: Black, navy, charcoal, and camel appear every season in their classic styles, making it easy to build a foundational wardrobe.
• Seasonal neutrals: Each season brings sophisticated variations like burgundy or olive for fall, blush or ivory for spring.
• Statement colors: Jewel tones like sapphire, emerald, and ruby appear regularly, offering vibrant options that remain professional.
• Subtle patterns: Pinstripes, glen plaids, and herringbone patterns add interest while maintaining versatility.

I’ve found that their color selection tends toward the rich and complex rather than bright or trendy shades. The navy isn’t just navy—it’s a deep, inky tone with depth. The red isn’t fire-engine bright but a sophisticated crimson with subtle blue undertones that flatters a wide range of skin tones.

This approach to color ensures that pieces remain relevant and wearable for many years, another factor that enhances their value as wardrobe investments.

What Real Women Say: Customer Reviews of Antonio Melani Sets

Beyond my personal experience, I’ve gathered insights from colleagues, friends, and online reviews about Antonio Melani sets. The consensus highlights several consistent themes:

The Positives:

• Exceptional fit that requires minimal tailoring for most women
• Superior fabric quality compared to similarly priced brands
• Versatility across different professional environments
• Longevity of style and construction

One colleague who purchased her first Antonio Melani set on my recommendation recently told me, “I’ve never had a suit that fits so well right off the rack. I feel like it was made for me.”

The Considerations:

• Higher initial investment than some budget-friendly alternatives
• Limited size range compared to some inclusive brands
• Primarily designed for professional rather than casual environments

A common sentiment I’ve heard repeated is that once women try their first Antonio Melani set, they rarely go back to other brands for their core professional wardrobe.

The Price Spectrum: What to Expect to Invest

To give you a concrete idea of the investment required, here’s a breakdown of current price points for Antonio Melani sets:

• Blazers/Jackets: $159-$249, depending on fabric and details
• Matching Pants: $89-$149
• Matching Skirts: $79-$129
• Coordinating Dresses: $129-$199

This means a complete two-piece set typically ranges from $238 to $398, with most falling around the $300 mark. Three-piece sets (blazer, skirt, and pants in the same fabric) represent the best value, offering maximum versatility for around $400.

While not inexpensive, when viewed as cost-per-wear over the lifespan of these pieces, the value becomes apparent. My most-worn set has been in regular rotation for four years, which breaks down to less than $1.50 per wear—and it still looks almost new.

Inclusive Sizing: Options for All Body Types

An important consideration for many women is whether Antonio Melani sets are available in a range of sizes. The brand typically offers:

• Regular sizes: 0-16 in most styles
• Petite sizes: 0P-14P in select styles
• Women’s sizes: 14W-24W in a more limited selection of styles

The Women’s collection (their term for plus sizes) offers many of the same beloved styles as the regular line, though the selection is somewhat more limited. The fit in these sizes is thoughtfully adapted to flatter fuller figures rather than simply being scaled-up versions of the smaller sizes.

One area where I feel the brand could improve is in offering tall sizes for women who need additional length in sleeves and pants. Currently, those needs must be addressed through alterations.

Hunting for Bargains: Where to Find Antonio Melani Sets on Sale

For the budget-conscious shopper who still wants the quality of Antonio Melani, here are my tried-and-true strategies for finding these sets at reduced prices:

• End-of-season sales at Dillard’s: January and July typically see the deepest discounts as seasonal merchandise is cleared out.
• Dillard’s clearance centers: These outlet locations carry past-season merchandise at significantly reduced prices.
• Online resale platforms: Sites like Poshmark, ThredUP, and eBay often have pre-owned Antonio Melani pieces in excellent condition.
• Subscribe to Dillard’s emails: They’ll notify you of upcoming sales events and special promotions.

I’ve developed the habit of visiting my local Dillard’s at the beginning of each season to try on and note the styles I love. Then, rather than purchasing immediately, I wait for sales unless I have an immediate need. This patience has allowed me to build my collection at a considerable discount.

Styling Secrets: Making the Most of Your Antonio Melani Sets

The true magic of these sets lies in their versatility. Here are some of my favorite styling approaches:

Creative Mixing

Don’t feel confined to wearing pieces only with their matching counterparts. The black blazer from one set might pair beautifully with the gray pants from another, extending your wardrobe options exponentially.

Layering Strategies

Experiment with different layers beneath your blazers—silk shells, fine knit sweaters, even high-quality t-shirts for more casual environments can change the entire feel of the outfit.

Accessory Transformations

I keep a collection of accessories specifically chosen to work with my Antonio Melani sets. Swapping a minimalist pendant for a statement necklace or changing from subtle studs to shoulder-dusting earrings completely transforms the look.

Footwear Flexibility

The same suit set can project completely different vibes when paired with classic pumps, modern ankle boots, or even clean white sneakers for a contemporary casual approach.

One of my favorite styling discoveries was pairing the pants from my pinstripe set with a simple white t-shirt and leather jacket for weekend outings. The quality of the pants elevates the casual elements, creating a perfectly balanced look that’s put-together without being overdressed.

Office-Appropriate Excellence: Antonio Melani Sets for Work

If professional attire is your primary concern, Antonio Melani sets excel in workplace-appropriate design. Several features make them particularly well-suited to office environments:

• Appropriate coverage: Blazers provide full coverage with flattering proportions, skirts hit at or just above the knee, and pants offer a range of professional silhouettes from slim to wide-leg.
• Thoughtful details: Pockets are placed to be functional without adding bulk, closures are secure, and slits or vents are designed for ease of movement while maintaining modesty.
• Professional color options: Even their boldest colors remain office-appropriate, and patterns are subtle enough for conservative environments.

In more traditional fields like law, finance, or corporate leadership, these sets meet all the unspoken requirements of professional dress codes while still offering enough personality to avoid the dreaded “corporate uniform” feel.

Finding Your Perfect Fit: Sizing Guidelines

Selecting the right size is crucial to getting the most from your Antonio Melani investment. Here are my recommendations based on years of experience with the brand:

Know Your Measurements

Before shopping, take fresh measurements of your bust, waist, hips, and inseam. Antonio Melani’s size chart is generally accurate, but knowing your exact measurements helps when deciding between sizes.

Consider Your Body Shape

• If you’re fuller in the bust or shoulders, you might size up in blazers.
• If you have a pronounced waist-to-hip ratio, the curvy fit pants might be your best option.
• If you’re straighter through the middle, their classic fit styles will likely work better.

Try Before You Buy When Possible

While online shopping is convenient, if you’re new to the brand, visiting a Dillard’s location to try different styles and sizes can save time and potential returns in the long run.

I typically wear a different size in the jacket than in the pants or skirt with Antonio Melani sets—size 8 on top and size 6 on the bottom. Knowing this consistent pattern makes it much easier to shop confidently, even online.

My Personal Antonio Melani Journey: Why I’m a Convert for Life

When I reflect on my journey with Antonio Melani sets, what stands out isn’t just the quality of the clothing but how these pieces have been silent partners in my professional development. They’ve given me confidence in situations where I felt out of my depth, helped me project competence when I was the youngest person in the room, and allowed me to focus on my work rather than worrying about my appearance.

There was a pivotal client presentation early in my career where I was the only woman on the team. I wore my navy Antonio Melani set with a silk shell and felt completely equipped to command the room. A senior executive later commented not on my appearance but on my confident presence—exactly the effect great professional clothing should have. It enhances without distracting.

Over the years, as my collection has grown, these pieces have become something of a professional uniform for me—not in the sense of wearing the same thing every day, but in having a consistent level of polish and quality that identifies me as someone who cares about details and presentation.

The Verdict: Are Antonio Melani Sets Your Next Wardrobe Investment?

After living with and loving these sets for years, here’s my honest assessment:

Antonio Melani sets are ideal for:

• Professionals who need a polished, authoritative wardrobe
• Women looking to invest in fewer, better pieces rather than constant replacements
• Anyone who appreciates quality construction and materials
• Those seeking versatility across different professional and social contexts

They might not be the right choice for:

• Those who rarely need formal or business attire
• People who prefer very trendy, of-the-moment styling
• Shoppers with extremely limited clothing budgets who need immediate solutions

For me, these sets have proven to be one of the wisest wardrobe investments I’ve made. The confidence, versatility, and longevity they provide make them the foundation of my professional wardrobe and a true pleasure to wear day after day, year after year.

Whether you’re building your first professional wardrobe or looking to elevate your existing collection, Antonio Melani sets offer that rare combination of quality, style, and value that makes them worth every penny of their investment.