Tess’s dad says that dresses are only for tea parties and fancy occasions. Tess believes that dresses are for any time.
Elizabeth Pulsford’s well-written rhyming text shows us all the things that Tess can do while wearing her dresses that are adorned with flounces, frills and floofy sleeves. In fact, she says there’s nothing she can’t do.
Tess’s self-confidence combined with her epic imagination is an inspiration for readers to be themselves.
Janet Samuel’s illustrations are lively and detailed with a wonderful sense of movement, capturing Tess in all her twirling, whirling, tree climbing glory. She has beautifully brought to life the elements of Tess’s imagination including dragons, unicorns, and mermaids.
There is an adventure on every page turn, and children will enjoy spotting Tess’s four-legged friend on each spread. Eventually we see Tess dressed in a pair of shorts and a t-shirt… but only because it’s laundry day!
This is a gorgeous book that may result in a shopping trip to buy more dresses.
Title: Dresses are for Messes
Author: Elizabeth Pulsford
Illustrator: Janet Samuel
Publisher: Five Mile, $24.99
Publication Date: June 2026
Format: Hardback
ISBN: 9781923457713
For ages: 3+
Type: Picture book
