For ages, different types of dresses have been a vital element of every fashion-loving woman’s wardrobe. With so many types of dresses to choose from, it can become a little daunting when shopping for the ideal dress style for yourself. But you know what truly works in your favour? Figuring out your personal style and experimenting with different cuts, silhouettes and lengths. Here are the top 15 most promising dress styles to explore if you want to build a fashion wardrobe that caters to all your dressing needs, from casual to formal to high-end fashion-approved.
Sheath Dress: One of the classic types of dresses, a sheath dress is an absolute must-have in every fashion wardrobe. The sleek silhouette of the sheath dress not only makes it a flattering choice suitable for office wear but also doubles up as a popular casual wear option. This form-fitting style cinches the waist, creating the hourglass silhouette desired by many women. The sought-after dress style can be explored in a melange of colours, necklines and sleeve styles to suit personal preferences.
Maxi Dress: If there is one dress that has a chokehold on fashion-admiring women globally, it has to be the maxi dress. The ankle-length hemline offers a modest yet elegant option for women to wear all year round. Whether you are travelling, lounging at home or heading out for a quick grocery haul, you can always rely on different types of long dresses to keep you comfortable and put-together.
A-Line Dress: An A-line dress is marked by its silhouette resembling the alphabet. This common silhouette features a fitted bodice with a flared skirt, creating an A shape. This particular silhouette has withstood the test of time and stayed relevant through fashion evolution. The universally flattering silhouette and its versatility make it a wardrobe must-have, allowing easy transitions from casual to dressy with the right accessories.
Wrap Dress: When Diane Furstenberg came up with the idea of designing a wrap dress in the 1970s, she had no idea that this simple yet functional dress style would evolve to become a crowd-pleaser. The wrap dress type is one of those silhouettes that hug the body in the right places to create a flattering shape. And let’s not even get started on the versatility it offers. From impromptu picnics to dress-up events, you can style your wrap dress to match the occasion’s dress code.
Slip Dress: Evolved from underdresses or petticoats, slip dresses have now become an indispensable part of the fashion-forward woman’s wardrobe. It was once considered a utility garment, but today it is worn as a stand-alone piece for various occasions and settings. Layer it with your favourite kaftan and stilettos for chic brunch attire, or wear it on its own for a sultry party look.
Bodycon Dress: One of the daring types of dresses, a bodycon dress, is for those who can handle attention like true fashionistas. A bodycon dress fits you like a glove, creating a glamorous and bold hourglass silhouette. These can be worn for almost any occasion but are best suited for casual outings, parties and wedding ceremonies. Elevate your bodycon dress with appropriate accessories, shoes, jackets for women and bags to create fashion-forward looks.
Empire Waist Dress: The empire waist silhouette is especially popular in wedding and bridesmaid dresses, as it drapes beautifully on everyone. This silhouette is marked by a fitted bodice that flares out right under the bust. The empire waist imparts an elongated look to the wearer, as it gives the illusion of a higher waistline. This particular style looks effortless when combined with plunging or V-necklines and cut sleeves.
Shirt Dress: Inspired by the classic button-down, shirt style of dresses offer a classic yet laid-back vibe to your everyday looks. This type of dress combines structured tailoring with vibrant prints and colours to create a casual wardrobe essential. For a classic everyday look, style your shirt midi dress with your favourite sneakers, or achieve a more polished look by adding a waistbelt, nude pumps and a leather bag.
Blazer Dress: Modern, iconic and timeless—a blazer dress is a quintessential fashion garment to have in your wardrobe. Mimicking the classic silhouette of a blazer, this dress is an absolute must-have for fashion-loving women. Style it with a contrasting waistbelt and strappy heels to create a power look, or wear your blazer dress with chunky loafers and printed socks for a bold statement.
One-Shoulder Dress: As the name suggests, a one-shoulder dress has only one shoulder or sleeve, creating a charismatic asymmetrical look. This design detail is perfect for all sorts of occasions and settings, ranging from casual everyday wear to selective party scenes. Depending on your style and fashion preferences, you can choose different hemlines. While short dresses are more suitable for casual wear, floral midi dress designs and long dresses are more appropriate for refined formal events.
Shift Dress: Who knew a boxy silhouette with an undefined waistline could be this popular? Shift dresses carry a silhouette that is comfortable and iconic, and thus, mass-pleasing. The simple, nonchalant silhouette is loved by women for days when they want to look together but don’t want to wear anything too tight. Shift dresses are often combined with shorter hemlines to create a casual yet chic vibe.
High-Low Dress: This one is a playful and sophisticated silhouette that features an asymmetrical hemline that is shorter in the front and longer in the back. If you are not confident with shorter hemlines, a high-low dress is a great option to confidently ease into them. With these dresses, you can show off your legs while keeping your look modest and playful.
Cocktail Dress: Cocktail dresses strike the perfect balance between a casual and formal look. These dresses come in different silhouettes and lengths, catering to unique needs and fashion preferences. If the invite mentions a dress code, you can adhere to that. Otherwise, it truly depends on the wearer to make a choice. From shorter ones with elegant details to embellished long dresses, you can freely choose an ideal cocktail dress to match your style and occasion.
Fit and Flare: A classic and timeless silhouette in all senses, the fit-and-flare dress has a long association with fashion-loving women. This versatile dress can be worn and styled for various occasions and can be transitioned from day to night looks. Based on your fashion preferences, you can choose different iterations of the dress and create a tailor-made look.
Halter Neck Dress: Halter neck dresses are such an essential for creating summer-appropriate holiday looks. If you are planning to travel during the summer, you have to pack your halter dress. Whether a flowy maxi or a flared mini, halter neck dresses are crucial travel essentials. If you are proud of your shoulders and want to show off that bare back, then halter dresses are your best bet.
