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 ball gown, 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.
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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Maxi Dress:
Spend the day at the beach or by the pool relaxing in an 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.
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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.
