40 Different Types of Dresses For Women

With its snug fit and frilled waistline, peplum dresses beautifully accentuate curvaceous figures. This style of dress is rather versatile and can look either sexy or sophisticated, depending upon the cut. If you want to dress to impress on a first date, choose a plunging black, thin-strapped peplum dress. For a work meeting, put on a long-sleeved, belted midi peplum dress in a chic jewel tone.

40 Types of Dresses Every Woman Should Know

When it comes to finding a dress to wear on a night out, the options are endless. Certain outfits flatter certain body types, weather, and occasions, so it can be overwhelming to try and tackle the choices alone. Here is your guide to all dress types, for any occasion.

1. Midi Dress

Sitting between a maxi and a mini dress, the midi is what everyone needs for the times when you’re unsure of the formality of an event. This style can have any neckline or sleeve length, so it’s great for any body shape. Pull-on tights and ankle boots for a perfect winter look, or grab a pair of flats and a cute straw hat and have a stylish picnic!

2. Mini Dress

The scandal broke loose in 1965 when model Jean Shrimpton wore a mini shift dress to the Melbourne Cup, showcasing her bare legs and hat-free head to the world. Nowadays, mini dresses are far more mini and far less scandalous, and they’re a great way to capture attention and showcase your pins! This dress is ideal for anyone who wants to put emphasis on their legs and make the world stop and turn! If you’ve got it, flaunt it!

3. Maxi Dress

Spend the day at the beach or by the pool in a relaxing in the effortless maxi dress. This style is suited best for a more casual setting; however, the fabric hits the floor (or at least your ankles), giving the impression that you’re dressed up. Make the perfect lazy outfit by adding sandals and long-hanging jewelry into the mix, and everyone will wish they were as stylish and comfy as you are!

4. Off the Shoulder

Take the plunge and keep your shoulders exposed in an off-the-shoulder dress. These dresses showcase your shoulders, while maintaining a sleeve or ruffle on the bicep. The off-shoulder style is great for those who want to exhibit their shoulders and arms but don’t want the commitment of a strapless look.

5. Shift Dress

The shift dress was a massive trend in the early 1960s and has a simple, boxy shape. It is a short and typically sleeveless dress that hangs from the shoulders. It’s ideal for those who have a lean, column-esque body shape, as they appear straight. You can style this dress with a mid-length duster jacket and a pair of slingback heels or even knee-high boots, to give it that real ‘60s flair! This shape is the ideal blank canvas for color blocking or print detail.

6. A-Line Dress

An A-line dress fits at the hips and gradually flares out towards the hem, which makes the dress look like an “A” shape. It is perfect for a casual setting, and you can dress it up or down with ease. This style is best suited for pear-shaped bodies, as it shows off your lovely shoulders and adds a feminine touch to your lower half.

7. Wrap Dress

The wrap dress features a front closure by wrapping one side of the dress across the other and tying the fabric at the waist or back. Often seen by the likes of Kate Middleton, this style has a classic silhouette that is perfect for athletic body shapes, as it creates the illusion of an hourglass figure, even if you don’t have one naturally.

8. Halter Dress

A halter dress is ideal for summer. Featuring a strapless or sleeveless upper half, with a tie around the neck. Some halter necks don’t have a bow but fabric secured around the neck. This style of dress is most flattering for those who wish to show off their ample shoulders.

9. High-Low Dress

A high-low dress is a form of asymmetrical dress. They are typically longer at the back, and shorter at the front. This shape works with casual dresses as well as the ballgowns. It is the perfect style for anyone who wants to show off their sexy pins, and they’re best paired with high heels or platforms, so the back of the dress doesn’t drag on the floor.

10. Sheath Dress

A sheath dress is form-fitting, it has a straight cut and is nipped at the waistline, with no visible seam. It sits at the knee or just above and is ideal for a business event or a night out. This dress style is perfect for those who want to put their gorgeous curves in the spotlight, as it flatters those with an hourglass figure.

11. Peplum Dress

For those who love a playful style, a peplum dress is perfect. The detail can be below the waist, under the bust, at the hips, or around the neck or shoulders. The fit and flare silhouette of the peplum shape has its origins from Greek antiquity. For a day to night look, you can swap flats for a pair of hot heels, adding height to your figure, making your legs look super long and your waist nipped in and tiny.

12. Sweater Dress

Keep it casual with a sweater dress! This dress is knitted, it can be form-fitting or loose, and it comes in different lengths. It is perfect for all body types as there are so many different silhouettes. You can pair it with thigh-high boots to keep your pins warm, or add a sneaker for a fresh casual look!

13. Pencil Dress

If you’re heading out somewhere and you’re trying to impress someone, the pencil dress is the one for you! Named after the pencil shape, a pencil dress is typically nipped in at the waist, with a hem that hits below the knee and has no frills or flounce. This silhouette is great for a little black dress or a go-to for a date night. You can switch things up a bit by opting for a plunging neckline or keep it fresh and sexy with a turtleneck.

14. Shirt Dress

Keep it cool and casual with a shirt dress. Defined as a loose-fitting dress, it features a shirt collar and a button-down front. This style comes in different lengths, and sometimes has a nipped in waist. The focal point of a shirt dress is the collar and button-down front. It’s super easy to dress up or down, grab some chunky ankle boots or sneakers and you’ll be ready for a night out or a night at the beach!

15. Slip Dress

Unleash your inner grunge girl with a slip dress. You would typically wear this style as an undergarment; it is usually satin, with a V-neck line, spaghetti straps, and lace. You can dress it up or down with a pair of barely-there heels or chunky boots. Keep it casual by pairing this dress with a basic T-shirt or a white shirt underneath, to give it that real ‘90s feel!

16. Smock Dress

A smock dress is a gorgeous go-to for anyone in a rush! Super comfy to wear, a smock dress is usually loose-fitting. It can have long sleeves or be strapless, so it’s super versatile. Dress it up or down with a leather jacket and cute ankle boots for a perfect transitional outfit!

17. Ballgown

Be the belle of the ball with a ballgown! It is a formal dress that hits the floor, it is perfect for a fancy event such as a black tie dress code premier or a ball. This style comes in many different forms, from a princess silhouette, with a prominent pouffy skirt, all the way to the mermaid silhouette. A ball gown is a dress to wear when you’re ready to make a real entrance, and wow the whole room!

18. Mermaid Silhouette Dress

A style of a ballgown, the mermaid silhouette is the perfect dress for a black tie occasion. As the name suggests, the mermaid dress is long and straight from the top all the way to the middle of the thigh or calf, where it flares out into a wide skirt, as a mermaid’s tail would. If you have an hourglass or pear-shaped figure, opt for the tight-fitting silhouette. For column-esque bodies, you can go for a profile that’s a bit looser on the waist and hips.

19. T-shirt Dress

The ultimate casual dress, the T-Shirt dress is the one that you can go for when you’re stepping out to brunch or the movies. Much like a regular T-shirt, the round neck and loose-fitting silhouette sit just above the knee. Of course, you can also find a T-shirt dress with a pencil skirt silhouette, but the focus is on the T-shirt neckline. This look is perfect for any body type, so get creative, as this dress is a real blank canvas for any season!

20. Tea Length Dress

This classic style has its modern origins from Edwardian times when fabric became lighter which made it popular to wear indoors, around friends, often while drinking tea. This silhouette has a full circle skirt that hits at the mid-calf. A vintage-inspired silhouette, a tea length dress is perfect for those who are on their way to a semi-formal event or wish to add some classical Hollywood drama into their outfit. Pair it with cute flats or classic low heel pumps for a full Audrey-inspired get up.

21. Cocktail Dress

As the name suggests, a cocktail dress is a choice for a schmaltzy party or drinks at the bar. A cocktail dress is a blend of formal and casual, it hits just at the knee and is perfect for cocktail dress code events. This is a versatile dress, with different necklines and silhouettes, so you can find the ideal dress to suit you.

22. Denim Dress

When you’re not in the mood to squeeze into your jeans, slip on a cute denim dress! Just as the name suggests: this type of dress is made of denim. They come in a wide range of styles, with long sleeves and a button-down front, or a pinafore with pockets. This casual-cool style is effortless, chic, and suitable for many occasions.

23. Pinafore Dress

A pinafore dress is a collarless, strapless dress with medium-sized straps on the shoulder. You can wear it with a shirt or a turtleneck underneath. This cute little dress is a great way to showcase your figure without having to squeeze into something too tight!

24. Bardot Dress

Named after the blonde bombshell, Bridgette Bardot, this dress radiates decadence and sophistication. With an off-the-shoulder motif, these dresses are complete with a sleeve that sits just below the shoulders, giving you the impression that you’ve slipped the sleeves off just a little!

25. Tube Dress

If you’re ready to make an entrance while making an impact, show off your assets in a tube dress! Tight, form-fitting, and strapless. This dress is the ideal style for summer nights when you want to look sexy and seductive, without compromising on keeping yourself cool. This dress is great for all body types, as the figure-hugging silhouette amplifies your best features!

26. Qipao Dress

This traditional Chinese dress dates all the way back to the 17th century during the Manchu rule. Stunning in design, the Qipao features a high neck and a straight skirt. Traditionally made of silk, they are complete with delicate embroidery. The modern Qipao became popular in the West in the 1920s, and features a high slit on one or both legs, with a variety of different sleeve types. This dress is a stunning glimpse into the intricate and awe-inspiring Chinese culture.

27. Long Sleeve Dress

For those chilly winter nights, opt for a dress with long sleeves. This style is not only a smart choice for freezing nights, but they’re also incredibly sexy and alluring. Long-sleeved dresses come in a range of different silhouettes, so no matter what style you’re after, whether it be a bodycon, ballgown or a midi dress, there is something perfect for you! These dresses are ideal for those who wish to keep their arms covered.

28. Bell-Sleeve Dress

A bell-sleeve dress identifies itself with the sleeve ending at the mid-forearm or wrist, with a flare flowing down towards your hands. The sleeve is shaped like a bell, hence the name. These dresses come in different silhouettes, but the focal point is the sleeves.

29. Strapless Dress

Show off those gorgeous shoulders with the help of a strapless dress. The first modern strapless dress is said to have originated in the 1930s by designer, Mainbocher. As the name suggests, this style has no sleeves or straps, and it sits just above the bust, relying on your body’s contour to keep up. If you don’t feel like showing skin, you can always rock these dresses with a T-shirt underneath or a skivvy.

30. Blazer Dress

The blazer dress is the perfect ensemble to wear when you need to talk business, but have fun at the same time! These dresses look like a blazer, but they are worn as a dress. The style is typically double-breasted, giving the appearance that you’re wearing a men’s blazer. It’s versatile and perfect for any season, so rock it with low rise sneakers of a pair of ankle boots.

31. Empire Waist Dress

The empire waist dates all the way back to the 18th century. The dress gathers under the bust at the slimmest part of the torso, creating a flattering effect. If you’re smaller on the top part of your body, this dress will pinch the top of your abdomen and flare at the bottom. It’s perfect for petite girls, as it elongates bottom half giving the appearance of wickedly long legs.

32. Sun Dress

Catch those rays and wow everyone in a sundress. This garment is best worn in the warmer months, as it’s loose-fitting with spaghetti straps and a wide neckline. These dresses are often tighter around the waist and have a fuller skirt. Sundresses are soft, light, and feminine, best seen in a stunning floral pattern or pastel color.

33. Kimono Dress

This traditional Japanese gown dates over a thousand years ago when the word “kimono” meant a piece of clothing. Now, the kimono is one of the most widely recognized garments, characterized by its long sleeves and a wraparound closure. While the traditional kimono is still prevalent today, the modern kimono dress can have a slit in one leg, wraparound design and long sleeves.

34. One Shoulder Dress

Whether you’re indecisive or it’s just cold outside, you can always opt for a one-shouldered dress! A one-shoulder dress is a form of asymmetrical dress, characterized by the single shoulder. Choose from a full-length sleeve or one strap; however, you wish to wear it, you’ll make a statement. The asymmetry of the garment will attract attention for all the right reasons; you’ll look stunning!

35. Handkerchief Hem Dress

Add a twist to the asymmetrical dress with a handkerchief hem. These hems are designed to appear as though several handkerchiefs were held at the center, flowing down in the skirt. The style of handkerchief hems can be found at any length, with any neckline. It can be subtle or pronounced, and is a beautiful way to show off your gorgeous pins!

36. Asymmetrical Dress

An asymmetrical dress is an excellent option for those who aren’t sure of the formality of an event or party. An asymmetrical dress will have two sides of a different length. Sometimes the dress is longer at the back than the front, or shorter on one side. You can also find asymmetrical dresses that are sleeveless on one side and with a long sleeve on the other side. There are so many variations of asymmetrical dresses that flatter any body shape!

37. Bandage Dress

Popularised in the ’90s by French designer Hervé Léger, the bandage dress has a similar silhouette to the bodycon shape. However, its evolution is closer to shapewear. The dress got its name due to its ‘bandage’ construction, consisting of layers of knitted tape that hug the curves in all the right places.

38. Pouf Dress

Nipped in at the waist and pleated into a full skirt, the pouf dress is sweet and girly. Very 1950s in design, this style is famous for its “poufiness” in the skirt. You can go full throttle down the feminine road by pairing it with cute pumps and pearls, or you can make it rocker chic with sneakers and a leather jacket.

39. Tulle Dress

The tulle dress is what you’d typically see in a Disney film. Tight-fitting at the top and waist, it flows like a dream below the waist, giving the effect of a full princess-esque gown. This dress is made for anyone, as it accentuates your shoulders and arms. The princess silhouette is a traditional and historic-inspired dress, for those who wish to be a princess for a day!

40. Bodycon Dress

The bodycon is a tight-fitting dress that hugs your figure and accentuates your assets. They’re often made of stretchy material and are perfect for a night out on the town. This dress is ideal for those with an hourglass figure, as it flatters the beautiful curves!

Types of Dresses FAQs

What is the most popular type of dress?

It’s hard to nail down the most popular type of dress because fashion trends and body types influence it. However, there is one style that every dress wearing person should have — a Little Black Dress. This doesn’t have to be little, but you should have one black dress in your wardrobe that you feel fantastic wearing. It should be a style that suits your body, and that can be dressed up to meet different occasions. If you have one of these, you’ll always have something to wear at the drop of a hat.

What are the different types of dresses?

Dresses are one of the most versatile garments, with dozens of different styles, lengths, hems, waists, and sleeves. Dress lengths can generally be divided into mini, midi, tea, and maxi. When it comes to waist styles, there are wrap, a-line, peplum, empire, and princess, among others. Then some dresses mimic other clothing items. These include t-shirt, sweater, pencil, shirt, slip, blazer, and smock. Of course, you can also divide dresses by occasions, including cocktail and ballgown, and through culture with styles like qipao and kimono. Sleeve variations can include off-the-shoulder, tube, long, bell, halter, strapless, and one shoulder. Next, hems are another feature, with high-low, mermaid, asymmetrical, Bardot, and pouf dresses available. Lastly, other dress styles include shift, bodycon, sheath, denim, pinafore, sundress, and bandage dresses. With so much choice, there’s a dress type to suit everybody.

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40 Different Types of Dresses For Women

• Ana Roberts
• February 24, 2023

If you’re looking for a dress to wear out, there are endless different dress styles to consider. From trendy designs to flattering shapes, looks, cuts, and lengths, picking the right dress outfits can be a challenge. With so many types of dresses on the market, even the most seasoned fashionistas may feel overwhelmed trying to find a frock that is suitable for their figure and lifestyle. To make shopping easy and simple, we’ve compiled a list of all the different types of dresses for women to know about. Complete with names, this guide will help you get the best short and long dress styles for any occasion. From shift to a-line to wrap, shop these dress types to explore stylish outfits that will flatter your body type and look cute on you.

• 1 Different Dress Styles
  • 1.1 A-Line Dress
  • 1.2 Shift Dress
  • 1.3 Bodycon Dress
  • 1.4 Halter Dress
  • 1.5 Wrap Dress
  • 1.6 Asymmetrical Dress
  • 1.7 High-Low Dress
  • 1.8 Sheath Dress
  • 1.9 Peplum Dress
  • 1.10 Empire Waist Dress
  • 1.11 Sweater Dress
  • 1.12 Pencil Dress
  • 1.13 Slip Dress
  • 1.14 Smock Dress
  • 1.15 Ball Gown Dresses
  • 1.16 Princess Silhouette Dress
  • 1.17 Mermaid Silhouette Dress
  • 1.18 T-Shirt Dress
  • 1.19 Tea Length Dress
  • 1.20 Cocktail Dress
  • 1.21 Denim Dress
  • 1.22 Pinafore Dress
  • 1.23 Mini Dress
  • 1.24 Midi Dress
  • 1.25 Maxi Dress
  • 1.26 Off The Shoulder Dress
  • 1.27 Bardot Dress
  • 1.28 Tube Dress
  • 1.29 Qipao Dress
  • 1.30 Long Sleeve Dress
  • 1.31 Bell-Sleeve Dress
  • 1.32 Strapless Dress
  • 1.33 Shirt Dress
  • 1.34 Blazer Dress
  • 1.35 Sundress
  • 1.36 Pouf Dress
  • 1.37 Kimono Dress
  • 1.38 One Shoulder Dress
  • 1.39 Handkerchief Hem Dress
  • 1.40 Bandage Dress

  Different Dress Styles

  A-Line Dress

  The defining features of an A-line dress are a fitted bodice and a much wider skirt. This elegant silhouette, popularized in the 1950s, looks incredible on any figure, no matter your shape or size. A-line dresses are a rather chic option for work attire, especially when paired with leather pumps and statement earrings.

  

  Shift Dress

  Due to shift dresses often being associated with the 1960s, this classic dress style is particularly popular among women who have an interest in vintage fashion. Popular variations of the mod dress usually include rounded collars or a bold geometric pattern. That being said, there are ways to pull off a shift dress that will have you looking cute. However, you’ll have to modernize your closet with some beautiful statement pieces and accessories.

  Start off with a solid color sleeveless shift dress, preferably black or white, in a lightweight fabric like cashmere or linen. To finish off the look, put on silver layered necklaces and matching hoop earrings. As for shoes, go for a pair of black peep-toe stilettos with an ankle strap.

  

  Bodycon Dress

  The bodycon is a trendy and sexy tight-fitting dress for women who want to accentuate their curves and assets. If you don’t happen to be a celebrity who is famous for her shapely body, this dress can be a bit intimidating. After all, skin-tight cuts aren’t always the most forgiving. However, there are a few simple ways to feel confident while rocking the figure-hugging ensemble.

  For starters, most bodycon dresses are made of stretchy material that can accommodate most body types and sizes. Otherwise, put on some shapewear to smooth any imperfections and achieve a sleek silhouette. Another trick to conceal a slightly bloated belly is to tie a jacket or flannel shirt around your waist. This is also an easy way to make the dress look more casual during the day.

  

  Halter Dress

  The halter dress had its day in the sun in the early 2000s, but as with most trends of the decade, this modern dress style is slowly making a comeback. The dress’s sexy silhouette usually emphasizes a woman’s shoulders and decolletage. Halter dresses are best suited for more casual occasions like going to the beach or having a night out dancing with friends.

  

  Wrap Dress

  Legendary designer Diane von Furstenberg introduced the wrap dress in the 1970s and consequently revolutionized the world of fashion. For decades, the frock has become a staple in women’s wardrobes and there’s no secret why. The dress is figure flattering, looks professional, feels comfortable, and is suitable for social and formal occasions alike.

  

  Asymmetrical Dress

  Fashionistas everywhere have an appreciation for asymmetrical dresses. One of the most popular variations of the asymmetrical trend is a high-low dress. While this is a classic choice, it is a bit on the safer side. For women seeking an edgy or seductive outfit, try a midi dress with an uneven hem and a deep thigh slit.

  

  High-Low Dress

  Speaking of high-low dresses, you really can’t go wrong with this feminine style. While still rather demure, the playful cut subtly shows off your legs. That being said, the dress is appropriate for events where you need to look more conservative, like attending a Church service or at a family dinner. For a sophisticated look, choose a high-low dress with a subtle hemline in a solid color or understated pattern.

  

  Sheath Dress

  Sheath dresses are a favorite among members of the royal family, as the style has been worn by Princess Diana, Meghan Markle, and Kate Middleton. However, you don’t need to be royalty to look absolutely stunning in this sleek ensemble. A sheath dress complements all body types and styles. This type of dress is ideal for professional women, especially when paired with a fitted blazer.

  

  Peplum Dress

  With its snug fit and frilled waistline, peplum dresses beautifully accentuate curvaceous figures. This style of dress is rather versatile and can look either sexy or sophisticated, depending upon the cut. If you want to dress to impress on a first date, choose a plunging black, thin-strapped peplum dress. For a work meeting, put on a long-sleeved, belted midi peplum dress in a chic jewel tone.

  

  Empire Waist Dress

  Empire waist dresses highlight the narrowest part of your waist and billow out. For this reason, the dress is particularly popular among pregnant and postpartum women. The comfortable ensemble is perfect for casual outings and looks gorgeous paired with block heel sandals and a wide brim hat.

  

  Sweater Dress

  During the winter months, the weather is simply not suitable to wear a dress out in public. The exception being, however, is the sweater dress. This cozy garment comes in a variety of styles, with the most popular being a figure-hugging turtleneck midi. Another on-trend look is a neon mini sweater dress with balloon sleeves. Rihanna also recently proved that a slightly shapeless sweater dress with a thigh slit is rather becoming. Regardless of the style you choose, sweater dresses always look great when paired with sheer black tights and a pair of chunky boots.

  

  Pencil Dress

  Similar to the pencil skirt, a pencil dress is a chic look, best suited for those who prefer sleek styles. This should be considered a wardrobe staple, as it can be worn with anything and anywhere, from your place of work to the bar.

  

  Slip Dress

  For better or worse, there has been a major resurgence in ’90s and 2000s fashion trends, with one of the major ones being slip dresses. While the slinky dress is quite literally an undergarment, it is a rather alluring look. However, if you want to be a bit more covered up you can always wear a fitted turtleneck under your slip dress. Similarly, you can put a chunky sweater over the garment.

  

  Smock Dress

  While smock dresses are usually associated with children from the Victorian era, this style is rather becoming on women of any age. However, those who are petite may be hesitant to wear the voluminous garment, as it can overwhelm a shorter frame. To remedy this issue, choose a smock dress with a shorter hemline. Pair the breezy ensemble with wedge sandals to elongate your legs.

  

  Ball Gown Dresses

  A good rule of thumb is if you have a chance to wear a ball gown, take the opportunity to wear this gorgeous formal type of dress. After all, there’s rarely an occasion to wear a flowing, full-length dress and you’ll look like absolute royalty. However, some styles of ball gowns are at the risk of appearing somewhat immature. To ensure that the gown is as chic and sophisticated as possible, choose a silk or satin dress with a plunging neckline.

  

  Princess Silhouette Dress

  Like ballgowns, princess silhouette dresses certainly make a statement and can really only be worn at formal events. This specific silhouette is popular for wedding dresses. It should be noted that brides who don’t necessarily want to look like Cinderella on their wedding day, can still wear princess dresses. The trick is choosing a strapless dress with a boned bodice and minimal or no embellishments.

  

  Mermaid Silhouette Dress

  Another popular bridal gown is a mermaid silhouette dress. This dress is fitted and gradually widens, resembling a mermaid. Typically, mermaid dresses are either strapless or off-the-shoulder and are made out of taffeta.

  

  T-Shirt Dress

  For an effortlessly cool look, try a T-shirt dress. This casual style has a grunge influence, making it a perfect look for those who have an appreciation for alternative styles. While many brands manufacture T-shirt dresses, a much cheaper option is to peruse the men’s section at a thrift store for an oversized band shirt. To elevate the on-trend look, wear fishnet stockings, platform leather boots, and a chain necklace.

  

  Tea Length Dress

  The distinct hemline of a tea length dress speaks to the femininity of the 1950s. This charming dress is often considered prim and proper, and generally worn at formal debuts, classy garden parties, and weddings.

  

  Cocktail Dress

  A cocktail dress is a semi-formal garment that is suitable for black tie events. When choosing a cocktail dress, you’ll want to consider your body type. Petite women may want to opt for a sleek, slinky number like a black cowl neck, thin-strapped midi dress. Curvy girls may want to wear a plunging, beaded maxi dress in a muted hue with a cape back and a cinched-in waist. If the event you are attending is outside or held during the winter season, feel free to wear a floor-length faux fur coat. Not only will it keep you warm, but it will also give your look additional glamour.

  

  Denim Dress

  The denim dress is a casual yet structured frock inspired by the boho fashion of the 1970s. The current trend for denim dresses calls for an A-line dress with a patchwork pattern and a frayed hem. This garment is best worn when strolling through a farmers market or having a picnic on a Spring day.

  

  Pinafore Dress

  Pinafore dresses share a similar silhouette to overalls or dungarees, making the garment rather playful and cute for young girls. While the pinafore might be too youthful for women over a certain age, there are simple ways to ensure that your pinafore dress will look completely age-appropriate and chic. The traditional style with this dress is a shirt or turtleneck under. We recommend wearing a ribbed long-sleeved white t-shirt underneath a simple black pinafore. Finish off the look with gold hoop earrings, a black pebbled leather purse, and a pair of square toe, snake print ankle boots. Voila, instead of looking like a kid on the playground, you’ll look like a Fashionista headed to a New York Fashion Week show.

  

  Mini Dress

  If you don’t mind turning heads, wear a mini dress in the spring and summer. First introduced in the 1960s, this sexy number is sure to put your legs on full display. You can always make the alluring ensemble a little more conservative, by simply putting on a pair of opaque tights.

  

  Midi Dress

  Many women reach for midi dresses for casual events during the warmer months. The hemline is extremely flattering and relatively modest. However, its length can also make it difficult to find shoes that will complement the ensemble. A good rule of thumb is to completely avoid boots. Instead, this breezy look calls for ankle strap sandals or even a pair of platform tennis shoes.

  

  Maxi Dress

  Throwing on a maxi dress is an easy way to look polished and put together while still being comfortable. While this style comes in a countless number of cuts and colors, a timeless option is a figure-hugging black sleeveless maxi dress.

  

  Off The Shoulder Dress

  An off-the-shoulder dress is subtly sexy and shows off just the right amount of skin. As of late, this style is rather trendy and can look cute as a casual outfit. If you want to keep up with the fashionistas, pick an off-the-shoulder mini dress with long sleeves in vegan leather material.

  

  Bardot Dress

  A Bardot dress is considered to be a specific kind of off-the-shoulder dress with a cut that is inspired by the iconic French actress, Brigitte Bardot. To look like the 1960s icon, consider wearing a striped Bardot dress with ballet flats and a wide cloth headband.

  

  Tube Dress

  As with slip dresses, the tube dress is another late 90s trend that is coming back in style. Quite a few people may be apprehensive about the look, fearing that the dress will look dated. However, a tube dress in a solid color with a hemline that hits just below the knee will always look chic and timeless.

  

  Qipao Dress

  Modern Qipao dresses are inspired by traditional Chinese dresses of yesteryear. As of late, the beautiful garment has been spotlighted by both fashion magazines and popular bloggers. While a mini Qipao dress is certainly a stunning look, if you are looking for something more formal, choose a sleeveless maxi dress with Chinese Jacquard fabric and a mandarin collar.

  

  Long Sleeve Dress

  A long-sleeved dress paired with an oversized sweater, sheer tights, and over-the-knee boots is the ideal autumn outfit. Long sleeve dresses can also be suitable for the spring or summer when styled well. For example, a white A-line puff-sleeved mini dress would be appropriate for warmer weather.

  

  Bell-Sleeve Dress

  If you happen to find yourself inspired by 1970s fashion trends, bell-sleeve dresses are right up your alley. This retro style calls for a short hemline and a fun boho pattern, like a bold floral print or a paisley design.

  

  Strapless Dress

  To properly pull off the strapless dress trend, you’ll want to find one with a square neckline and fitted bodice. For formal events, go for a satin strapless midi dress with a pleated skirt. For an everyday look, try a jersey knit bandeau maxi dress with ruched detailing.

  

  Shirt Dress

  While shirt dresses are comfortable and relatively casual, this kind of outfit can be workplace-appropriate for women. A particularly professional option is a fit and flare midi shirt dress with quarter length sleeves. You can look cute, trendy, and like an executive with the perfect shirt dress.

  

  Blazer Dress

  Blazer dresses are a sexy take on the menswear trend, which has completely taken over the runways in recent years. While you can’t go wrong with a traditional black blazer dress, don’t be afraid to spice up the look. Fierce options to consider include a neon pink or animal print blazer dress.

  

  Sundress

  Once the winter season ends, it’s time to shed bulky layers and flaunt your figure in a sundress. For the summer season, consider wearing a mini sundress with a straight neckline and embroidered floral pattern. It should also be noted that this dress style in a bright color looks incredible against sun-kissed skin. Ultimately, sundresses are pretty, fashionable, and fun to wear out during the day.

  

  Pouf Dress

  Pouf dresses are typically made out of tulle or taffeta and have a voluminous skirt. This dress is often worn with a petticoat for added volume. Pouf dresses are typically worn to black tie events, like formal dances.

  

  Kimono Dress

  Wearing a kimono dress essentially feels like you are wearing a fancy robe out in public. This kind of dress exudes sophistication and is an excellent option to wear to weddings. To stay up-to-date with the top style trends, you should choose a plunging mini kimono dress in a bright orange color.

  

  One Shoulder Dress

  Also known as the cold shoulder, the one-shoulder dress is a versatile style with a sexy cut. This dress can even be worn to the office when paired with a linen blazer and leather loafers.

  

  Handkerchief Hem Dress

  Fashionistas tend to gravitate toward handkerchief hem dresses due to its unique cut. The specific silhouette is best styled with bohemian accessories like woven leather bracelets and turquoise necklaces.

  

  Bandage Dress

  Like the bodycon, bandage dresses are known for their skintight fit and can be quite daunting for the average woman. That being said, the style can look wonderful on all body types. The secret is choosing a bandage dress in a solid color and thick fabric.

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