Once Upon A Time: Design Inspiration and Size Guide

‘Once upon a time’—or perhaps in a time that never was—a curious collection emerged, as though it had been dreamt into existence. This was no ordinary array of frocks and finery. No, this was something altogether more interesting… fashion with a twist in its tale. A collection for the creatives, the Kittens who love to play with fashion, dressing as though life was an endless masquerade.

It’s the kind of wardrobe you would not expect to find lurking where the fig trees grow, their branches curving against the sky.

But there, nestled between their roots, lives a curious girl with wild hair and secretive eyes. Her life is packed into vintage suitcases scattered like treasure among the undergrowth. Some say she’s a little odd, but her fashion? Impeccable! Layers, frills, jabots and waistcoats, stripes and velvet ribbon—every look tells a story that might not make sense… but feels so right.

For those who fancy a bit of drama, the ‘Once Upon A Time’ Classic Blouse offers a touch of delightful disorientation—one moment a perfectly respectable piece for layering, the next, a statement of bold mischief. And to tie it all together? The most decadent of Jabot Collars, just begging for a brooch to set off the ruffled layers!

The 'Once Upon A Time' Wiggle Skirt with its luxurious bustle adds just the right touch of drama. One might wonder if it has a mind of its own—swaying with a knowing smirk as you wiggle by. And should you prefer the full-skirted delight of a grand entrance, the ‘Once Upon A Time’ Full Dress awaits.

And then, dear Kitten, there’s the 'Once Upon A Time' Vest - with a Bustle!—because why should skirts have all the fun? Dapper, daring, and delightfully nonsensical, this waistcoat-inspired wonder is a sharply tailored wink to the past, cinched just so. Pair it with the ‘Once Upon A Time’ Crop Flounced Jacket—a confection of precision and playfulness—for a look that’s layered, lavish, and just a little bit rebellious - perfect for when one must make an entrance… or a dramatic escape!

Coming Soon: The Next Chapter in the ‘Once Upon A Time’ Story…

This is a collection made for layering—designed to mix, match, and reinvent with every wear. After all, it’s not every day one adds a Jabot Collar to their wardrobe! The next chapter in this curious story will reveal even more enchanting combinations… from blouse beneath waistcoat, to jacket over bustle skirt and beyond, this collection has more secrets to reveal. Think elegant jabots, faux fur flourishes, and the perfect pieces to wear beneath (or atop) your favourite designs—from structured vests to ruffled blouses and flounced jackets. Who knows what tales your outfit will tell?

Yes, indeed, this collection is not at all passive —it is an invitation. To what, you ask? Well, that depends entirely on you…

But of course, seeing is believing...

Before you set off on your next adventure, let’s make sure everything fits just right! Whether you’re drawn to pin-up wiggles, cinched waists, or sweeping flared skirts—this collection has you covered. Think layers, ruffles, flounces… buttons, stripes, and just the right touch of faux fur. It’s everything a layer-loving Kitten dreams of, with a little drama in every step.   As always, the ever-stylish Kittens of Kitten D’Amour have tried on these enchanting designs and are ready to share their own fit notes and favourite styling tips. Read on for their advice—after all, who better to guide you through this most curious collection than those who wear it best?

Adrienne Kitten

Adrienne's Measurements: Bust 114cm / Waist 93cm / Hip 119cm / Height 169cm

Elegant, playful, and ready to accessorise at a moment’s notice, Adrienne was instantly charmed by the Once Upon A Time Collection. The bold stripe, the frill details, the flattering silhouettes—it all brought a hint of Alice in Wonderland whimsy to her wardrobe, with just the right balance of sophistication and fun.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Full Dress – Size 14:
Worn in her usual Size 14, the 'Once Upon A Time' Full Dress offered a beautifully true-to-size fit with an elegant below-the-knee hem and a soft, structured bodice. The flared skirt created a lovely swish when walking—made even better by the discovery of pockets. Adrienne loved the adorable stripe print, especially for its subtle nod to her favourite Disney film, Alice in Wonderland (with Peter Pan as a close second). She’s already planning to style it with bright handbags, statement shoes, and maybe even a flower crown—this dress is practically begging for playful accessories!

‘Once Upon A Time’ Crop Flounce Jacket – Size 14:
Also in her usual Size 14, the Crop Flounce Jacket had a hint of stretch for an ultra-comfortable fit. The sleeves were a standout feature—soft, flattering, and finished with a delicate frill at the cuff that added just the right amount of charm. Adrienne adored the versatility of this piece, calling it effortlessly classy and perfect for layering over not just the matching dress, but countless other outfit combinations. A true styling staple for cool mornings, date nights, or café catch-ups.

🖤 Adrienne’s Fit Notes:

• Both pieces fit true to size with no need to size up or down.
• The jacket has a soft, stretchy feel and a flattering sleeve length.
• The dress is both elegant and fun, with a flared shape and functional pockets.
• Perfect for layering and made for accessorising.

Kay Kitten 

Kay's Measurements: Bust 79cm / Waist 65.5cm / Hip 91cm / Height 172cm

Chic, creative, and always with an eye for detail, Kay—one of our talented Head Office Kittens—stepped out from behind the scenes to bring her signature style to the Once Upon A Time collection. From waist-snatching vests to oh-so-versatile jabots, every piece delivered that unmistakable Kitten flair. Her verdict? These designs don’t just fit—they belong in every wardrobe.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Full Dress – Size 4:
Kay found the Full Dress to be a firm but flattering fit in her usual Size 4. The contrasting belt detail stood out beautifully against the bold stripe print, giving it a unique, high-impact finish. She styled it with the Lace Blouse layered underneath—though it also looks incredible worn on its own.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Lace Blouse (Black) – Size 4:
This blouse was a surprise favourite for Kay. Made from soft, breathable lace, it offered comfort without sacrificing style. She loved how well it paired with the vest and Full Dress but noted it also looked beautiful worn solo, thanks to the softly ruffled neckline and included singlet.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Full Skirt – Size 4:
Kay was instantly smitten with the ‘Once Upon A Time’ print—"photos don’t do it justice!" she said. The Size 4 fit perfectly at the waist, with a firm hold and a modest, under-the-knee tea length that she loved.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Classic Blouse – XS:
A classic for a reason! This blouse in XS was breathable, extremely comfortable, and allowed easy movement—making it ideal for both styling up and daily wear. Kay notes that there is no stretch in this fabric.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Vest – Size 4:
One of Kay’s standout favourites. With a beautifully tailored fit, the vest cinched her waist and created a flattering silhouette. The bustle detail at the back added a fun, unique twist she couldn’t get enough of—polished yet playful!

‘Once Upon A Time’ Jabot Collar (Black):
“Oh my goodness,” she said—and for good reason! Kay loved the jabot for its sheer versatility. It paired effortlessly with the Classic Blouse, the Lace Blouse, and even pieces from older Kitten collections, adding instant drama to any look.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Lace Blouse (Off-White) – Size 4:
Just as comfortable and flattering as the black version, this blouse became another must-have for Kay. Soft, stretchy, and easy to layer with or without the included singlet.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Tea Length  Classic Skirt  – Size 4:
A cold-weather dream. This tea-length skirt was thick, durable, and wonderfully warm—Kay loved it as a winter staple. It held shape well and offered excellent structure without feeling heavy.

🖤 Kay’s Fit Summary:

• Wears Size 4 in all fitted styles
• Wears XS in general sizing
• Lace Blouses are soft, stretchy, and flattering with or without the singlet
• Skirts are firm at the waist, modest in length, and beautifully shaped
• The Vest adds dramatic definition—waist-snatching and standout
• The Jabot is a must-have styling piece—endlessly versatile across collections

Ashlee Kitten and Isabella Kitten

Ashlee's Measurements: Bust 87cm / Waist 64cm / Hip 91cm / Height 173cm

Ashlee—our radiant Pacific Fair Kitten from the Gold Coast—brought her signature poise and playful charm to the Once Upon A Time Collection. Each design she wore offered a little stretch in all the right places, keeping her comfortable while creating a beautifully defined silhouette. As someone with longer legs, she was especially impressed by the thoughtful cut and length of the skirts—the full skirts felt just right!

‘Once Upon A Time’ Vest – Size 8:
Fitted and fabulously shaped, the ‘Once Upon A Time’ Vest in Size 8 offered Ashlee a “snatched” silhouette while still being comfortable thanks to the subtle stretch in the fabric. It sat beautifully through the waist and layered perfectly over both blouses and dresses.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Stripe Full Skirt – Size 8:
The Full Skirt was a standout for Ashlee. She often finds this style sits too short on her, but the Once Upon A Time design struck just the right balance—flattering, structured, and with a length that felt elegant on longer legs. True to size at the waist, with just enough room to twirl

‘Once Upon A Time’ Full Dress – Size 8:
In her usual Size 8, the Full Dress fit like a dream—comfortable yet tailored, with a hint of stretch that offered ease of movement while keeping everything perfectly in place. A timeless cut with a modern, playful twist.

🖤 Ashlee’s Fit Summary:

• Wears Size 8 across all pieces.
• True to size with a comfortable stretch.
• Beautifully shaped through the waist and bodice.
• Skirt length and shape are ideal—even for longer legs.
• Structured, versatile, and made to flatter.

Isabella's Measurements: Bust 91cm / Waist 77cm / Hip 90cm / Height 155cm 

Warm, friendly, and cute as a button, Isabella—one of our darling Pacific Fair Kittens—brought her signature sweetness to the Once Upon A Time Collection. The result? Outfits that made her feel confident, polished, and perfectly herself!

‘Once Upon A Time’ Maxi Dress – Size 8:
Though she typically wears a Size 10 in dresses, Isabella sized down to a Size 8 for a more fitted, shapely silhouette. The fabric’s stretch made this possible without sacrificing comfort, and the cut through the bust and waist gave a graceful, flattering effect.

🖤 Isabella’s Fit Summary:

• Maxi Dress: Sized down to Size 8 for a firmer fit (usually wears Size 10)
• Lace Blouse (not shown): True to size in Size 10
• Full Skirt (not shown): Sized down to Size 10 (usually wears Size 10–12 in skirts)
• Comfortable stretch in each piece allows for flexible fit
• Classic silhouettes with a polished finish

Lily Kitten

Lily's Measurements: Bust 87cm / Waist 67cm / Hip 89cm / Height 168cm

Effortlessly elegant with a flair for whimsy, Lily—one of our dreamy Melbourne Boutique Kittens—brought a touch of fairytale charm to the Once Upon A Time Collection.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Maxi Dress – Size 8:
Lily found the Maxi Dress beautifully comfortable, thanks to its silky smooth lining and stretch throughout. The empire-style waistband sat just below the bust, giving her vintage elegance with a modern twist. While the Size 8 fit comfortably, she noted she could have sized down for a firmer fit. Styled with the ‘Folklore’ Follies Straw Hat, she felt ready for an autumn stroll!

‘Once Upon A Time’ Wiggle Dress – Size 8:
A confident, curve-loving fit! Lily loved how the Wiggle Dress hugged her figure while still feeling comfortable, thanks again to that soft lining. She particularly adored the bust detailing and rich purple velvet ribbon, calling this design a standout for showing off the ‘Once Upon A Time’ print in all its glory. Perfectly paired with the ‘Once Upon A Time’ Crop Flounce Jacket for cooler days .

‘Once Upon A Time’ Crop Flounce Jacket – Size 8
Lily wore this jacket across multiple looks, and in each, the Size 8 fit like a dream. It buttoned up neatly while still allowing freedom to move. She was especially charmed by the shoulder pads, pleats, and soft frill at the hem—calling it a perfect mix of modern whimsy and vintage glamour.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Lace Blouse (Black) – Size S
Though she typically wears a Medium, Lily opted for a Size Small for a more fitted silhouette. The stretch lace and soft feel made this an easy, comfortable choice—even in the smaller size. She layered it over the included singlet, which hugged her shape perfectly.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Stripe Skirt – Size 8
In her usual Size 8, the Stripe Skirt offered a flawless fit. Lily loved the slim waistband, crisp stripes, and, of course, the sturdy pockets. Always one for a bit of drama, she added a petticoat underneath to enhance the skirt’s fullness and give the look even more glamour.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Jabot Collar – Stripe
The perfect finishing touch. Lily paired the striped Jabot with her lace blouse and skirt ensemble, calling it “straight out of a whimsical tea party in Wonderland.” A statement accessory she’ll be styling again and again.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Crop Flounce Jacket – Size 8
She completed the look once more with the Crop Jacket layered on top, proving just how versatile this piece can be. Worn open or buttoned, it tied the outfit together with a polished vintage edge.

🖤 Lily’s Fit Summary:

• Wears Size 8 in all fitted designs
• Chose Size S in the Lace Blouse for a closer fit (typically wears Medium)
• Maxi Dress has stretch and a vintage-inspired empire waistline
• Wiggle Dress is comfortable, flattering, and beautifully detailed
• Stripe Skirt fits true to size, perfect with a petticoat
• Jabot adds instant whimsy and vintage charm
• Crop Flounce Jacket offers structure with a touch of softness—ideal for layering

Valentina Kitten 

Valentina's Measurements: Bust 100cm / Waist 84cm / Hip 100cm / Height 160cm

A little dramatic, a touch eccentric, and effortlessly stylish—Valentina felt right at home in the 'Once Upon A Time' Collection. With its tailored vests, ruffled blouses, and theatrical stripes, it’s made for Melbourne days filled with coffee, colour, and creativity. For her, it’s all in the details.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Vest – Size 10
The standout piece for Valentina, the Vest in Size 10 cinched her waist beautifully and added a sharply tailored layer to every ensemble. She was especially taken with how it shaped her figure—highlighting curves she hadn’t expected. Paired with the little collar detail, it became a fast favourite, making her feel polished, playful, and a little bit powerful.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Lace Blouse in Off-White – Size 10
Delicate, romantic, and just a little ghostly in the best way, the Lace Blouse in Size 10 fit Valentina perfectly. With enough room to layer comfortably under vests and dresses, it quickly became one of her favourite pieces. She especially adored the subtle, considered details woven into the design—and how effortlessly it elevated every look.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Full Skirt – Size 10
In a Size 10, the Full Skirt sat comfortably at Valentina’s waist and offered a generous, satisfying swirl. The fabric had a beautiful weight to it—something she noted would make it a dream to wear during Melbourne’s cooler months. She styled it with both the Classic and Lace Blouses, switching things up depending on her mood (and the ever-changing weather).

‘Once Upon A Time’ Full Dress – Size 8
Valentina wore the Full Dress in a Size 8, finding it comfortably fitted through the bodice with just the right amount of structure. She layered it over the Lace Blouse in Off White and loved how the soft ruffles at the neckline peeked through, adding a gentle elegance that softened the bold lines of the dress. For her, it struck the perfect balance between strong silhouette and delicate detail.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Classic Blouse – Size M
Valentina selected the Classic Blouse in a Size M and styled it with the Off White Jabot and Full Skirt. She loved how it brought together Victorian sensibility with a splash of playful mischief. For her, the striped print was especially charming—bold, theatrical, and just quirky enough to make a statement.

🖤 Valentina’s Fit Notes:

• True to size across every piece.
• Blouses are comfortable through the bust and perfect for layering.
• The skirt and dress offer a structured fit with room to move.
• The vest defines the waist while still being easy to wear.

From espresso-fuelled mornings to velvet-draped evenings, this collection is ready to be styled your way. For Valentina, the fun was in the details—and the endless mix-and-match possibilities.

“I can’t stop thinking about it.”

Honestly, neither can we.

Deb Kitten 

Deb's Measurements: Bust 80cm / Waist 68cm / Hip 90cm / Height 155cm

Petite and full of sparkle—Deb, our pocket-sized Kitten from Chermside - brought her signature vintage flair to the Once Upon A Time Collection. Deb found this collection true to size, flattering, and full of thoughtful design features—especially for fellow petite Kittens.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Wiggle Dress – Size 4:
Though the Size 4 looked stunning in photos, Deb found the fit a little too snug for comfort. With its ingenious ruching at the bust, the Wiggle Dress offered surprising flexibility across bust sizes, but Deb would recommend opting for a Size 6 if you're between sizes or prefer a little extra movement. Elegant, curve-hugging, and easy to walk in—it’s a classic wiggle silhouette with a clever twist.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Lace Blouse (Off-White) – Size 6:
Soft, stretchy, and beautifully detailed, the Lace Blouse in Size 6 was a standout for Deb. The frill around the neckline sat low enough to offer bust coverage, allowing the option to wear it with or without the included singlet. Comfortable and easy to wear, this piece layered beautifully with both skirts and vests.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Stripe Full Skirt – Size 6:
The Stripe Full Skirt in Size 6 sat comfortably at Deb’s waist, with a flattering A-line shape and just the right amount of volume. Despite her petite height (155cm), the length was spot on—no alterations needed!

‘Once Upon A Time’ Vest – Size 4:
Deb styled her Lace Blouse and Skirt with the Vest in Size 4, which looked lovely, but felt snug when layered. For comfort and a little more breathing room, she’d recommend sizing up to a 6—especially if pairing with blouses or planning to wear it buttoned.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Maxi Dress – Size 6:
Deb wore the Maxi Dress in her usual Size 6 and found it a beautiful fit. The shaping around the bust flattered her frame, even with her petite proportions. At 155cm, she was thrilled that the floor-length design still worked for her height without needing adjustment. A sweeping silhouette with timeless charm—ideal for more formal occasions or styled up with bold accessories.

🖤 Deb’s Fit Summary:

• Wears Size 6 in most pieces
• Wiggle styles run snug—if between sizes, she recommends sizing up
• Lace Blouse: soft, stretchy, and modest—wear with or without the singlet
• Vest and Jacket in Size 4 were snug—Size 6 is preferred for layering
• Maxi Dress suited her 155cm height beautifully without needing alterations
• Jersey Top (not pictured) worn in XS and ideal for Size 4–6 fit

Sarah Kitten 

Sarah's Measurements: Bust 95cm / Waist 81cm / Hip 90cm / Height 155cm

Effervescent and always perfectly styled, Sarah—our radiant Chermside Kitten—brought her signature sparkle to the 'Once Upon A Time' Collection. With layering, drama, and feminine details at every turn, Sarah found this collection true to size and a joy to style.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Classic Blouse – Size 10:
Sarah began her styling journey with the Classic Blouse in Size 10. The fit was true to size, and she loved how it paired perfectly with skirts, vests, and jabots. While the fit worked well for her frame, she noted that the fabric had minimal stretch—so for guests with a fuller bust, sizing up might offer a more comfortable fit across the chest.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Full Skirt – Size 10:
The Full Skirt in Size 10 sat beautifully at Sarah’s waist, providing just the right amount of structure and volume. A classic, full silhouette with the kind of swish that makes every step a little more fun.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Vest – Size 10:
Layered over the Classic Blouse and Full Skirt, the Vest added tailored definition. Sarah wore her usual Size 10 and found the fit perfect—structured, flattering, and ideal for layering without feeling bulky.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Crop Flounce Jacket – Size 10:
To complete her look, Sarah added the Crop Flounce Jacket in Size 10. With a high neckline and feminine frill detail at the hem and cuffs, the jacket added the perfect touch of polish. She appreciated the comfort and ease of movement thanks to the slight stretch in the fabric.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Maxi Dress – Size 10:
Sarah slipped into the Maxi Dress in her usual Size 10 and found it true to size with a flattering cut across the bust and waist. The shaping worked beautifully, offering a sleek silhouette with just enough drama in the length. At 155cm tall, she was thrilled to find the full-length design still worked without overwhelming her petite frame.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Wiggle Dress – Size 10:
The Wiggle Dress was another perfect fit. With clever ruching at the bust and a touch of stretch in the fabric, Sarah felt the Size 10 offered both comfort and a curve-enhancing silhouette. Easy to walk in and the ideal length for her height, it’s a style she’d happily wear from day to night.

🖤 Sarah’s Fit Summary:

• Wears Size 10 in all tailored pieces
• Size Small in general sizing (suitable for Size 8–10)
• Striped Classic Blouse has limited stretch—consider sizing up for fuller busts
• Vest and Jacket layered beautifully in her usual size
• Maxi and Wiggle Dresses fit true to size and worked well for her petite height
• Comfortable, flattering, and full of mix-and-match potential

Peta Kitten 

Peta's Measurements: Bust 98cm / Waist 76cm / Hip 96cm / Height 164cm

Bold, bubbly, and always ready to make a statement, Peta—our city-chic Kitten from Brisbane’s QueensPlaza boutique—was hopping mad to try the 'Once Upon A Time' Collection. With her love of wiggle silhouettes and flair for dramatic finishing touches, this collection ticked all the boxes!

‘Once Upon A Time’ Full Dress – Size 10:
Though she usually wears a Size 8 in full-skirted styles, Peta found the Full Dress more comfortable in a Size 10. The fabric has a touch of stretch, but she preferred the extra room for easy movement and layering. The silhouette still gave her all the shape she loves, just with a little added comfort.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Classic Blouse – Size 10:
The Classic Blouse in Size 10 was a playful favourite, especially when styled with the removable Once Upon A Time Jabot Collar in black. This dramatic little accessory transformed the look completely—and with black, off white, and stripe options, Peta loved how easy it was to add a touch of flair to any collared blouse.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Wiggle Dress – Size 10:
True to her usual wiggle size, Peta found the Wiggle Dress in Size 10 to be a perfect fit. It offered great stretch and was easy to walk in, with a length that worked beautifully for her petite height. Elegant, comfortable, and wonderfully curve-enhancing—everything a wiggle should be.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Crop Flounce Jacket – Size 10:
Peta paired her Wiggle Dress with the Crop Flounce Jacket in Size 10. With a high neckline, flattering flounce, and stretch in the fabric, it completed the look with ease. She suggested that those with a narrow waistline might consider sizing down for a more tailored fit, but found it comfortable and chic in her usual size.

‘Once Upon A Time’ Wiggle Skirt – Size 10:
Peta wore the Wiggle Skirt in Size 10 and loved the amount of stretch—making it a comfortable, wearable option that still showed off her shape. The signature bustle added a striking detail, and she styled it with the Lace Blouse in Size 10, which featured soft, stretchy lace and a handy built-in singlet. The hardest part? Choosing between the black or off-white version!

🖤 Peta’s Fit Summary:

• Wears Size 10 across all styles shown.
• True to size in wiggle silhouettes with generous stretch.
• Full Dress runs a little smaller—Peta sized up for a more comfortable fit.
• Crop Jacket fits true, though sizing down may suit those after a cinched look.
• Blouses layer easily and elevate every look—especially with a jabot!