Dresses are clothing pieces that help women feel more feminine and attractive. They are easy to put on, comfortable, and flatter the figure in the best possible way. No wonder dresses are often the go-to garment during special occasions, from first dates and weddings to job interviews and parties.
Perhaps you are one of the many women who love wearing dresses. If so, you are probably familiar with A-line, empire-cut, and maxi dresses. You may even have a couple of sweater dresses for casual get-togethers and glamorous gowns for formal affairs in your closet. But did you know that these pieces are merely samples of the most popular dress styles? You may not realize it, but there are tons of other dress types at your disposal.
So, the next time you shop for dresses, you may want to go for more unique styles to expand your collection. If you want to know your options, read on. This piece will give you a rundown of eight dress types that you may not know about. And because you should always look and feel your best while wearing them, we have also included style ideas to satisfy your inner fashionista.
Trapeze
Popularized by Yves Saint Laurent in 1958, the trapeze dress is one of the most comfortable and easy-to-wear one-piece garments. This dress style features a triangular cut that starts from the shoulders and flares out around the legs. It flatters practically all body types because of its loose and flowy body and a hemline that ends slightly above the knees.
Trapeze dresses can be styled in many ways. For one, you can try the art of layering. Look for a short trapeze dress in vivid hues like royal blue or fuchsia pink, and wear black opaque tights for women underneath. Complete the chic and modern look with a pair of black pointed lace-up ankle boots. Do you want something more glamorous? Try a black halter neck trapeze dress with sexy black strappy heels. Add a splash of color with a turquoise statement necklace.
Peplum
The peplum dress is characterized by a flared ruffle attached to the waistline to create an illusion of an hourglass shape. This design has been widely used since the Archaic Period. And while it has floated in and out of the style scene in the 1980s and 1990s, the peplum dress remains one of the most flattering dress styles for all body types as it helps create a lovely silhouette.
Peplum dresses look incredible on their own. All you need is a pair of heels to elongate your legs and a matching bag, and you are good to go. For evening events, you can add a stylish belt that complements the dress for a more waist-slimming effect and added glam.
Slip
The slip dress, a style that closely resembles an undergarment or innerwear, became a hot trend in the 1990s thanks to style icons like Madonna and Courtney Love. You will surely love slip dresses if you are a fan of minimalist and uncomplicated styles that you can slip on and off effortlessly.
There are a lot of things you can do with a slip dress. You can pair it with a dark tailored blazer and matching heels for a chic look. How about adding a bit of contrast? Wear a leather jacket over your feminine slip dress and finish the grunge vibe with platform boots. You can also transform your slip dress into a casual outfit by simply wearing a white t-shirt underneath the dress and slipping into comfy white sneakers.
Peasant
Peasant dresses became in demand in the late 1960s to early 1970s as women looked for a more practical and comfortable alternative to the constricting designs popularized by the prior decade. The long and loose sleeves, wide neckline, and flowy body of peasant dresses offer complete freedom of movement. Additionally, they are perfect for concealing flabby arms and belly bulge in the most pleasing way.
Are you looking for a relaxed yet fashionable outfit for casual get-togethers? Try wearing a long peasant dress with strappy sandals or wedges. You can also go for a short peasant dress then pair it with skinny jeans. Finish the look with ankle boots and eye-catching chandelier earrings.
Handkerchief
Also known as the shark bite dress because of the uneven “bites” at the hem, the handkerchief style is undoubtedly a must-have piece in your wardrobe. This dress is light and flowy and has a flattering asymmetrical hemline that creates a slender and lengthier silhouette. More importantly, the handkerchief dress is ultra-versatile. You can wear them when meeting friends for coffee and other informal meet-ups or when going out on dates and parties.
Opt for a sleeveless handkerchief dress in bright prints and colors that fit your mood when the weather is warm for that extra boost in energy. Pair it with strappy heels to create an illusion of longer legs. Transform this outfit from casual to glam by wearing a structured blazer over the dress, putting your hair up, and applying bright red lipstick.
Coat
As the name suggests, a coat dress resembles an overcoat. It has a standard A-line cut skirt and a bodice with wide lapels and front fastening like a blazer. This professional-looking design first emerged in the early 1900s, and its popularity hasn’t tempered since then. You can see them still being worn by celebs, royals, and other influential women.
Wear this elegant dress at the office to exude a powerful vibe. Simply pair it with leather ankle boots and a matching clutch. You can also sport it as an ordinary jacket by wearing it over a neutral dress and keeping the buttons open. Complete the look with stilettos in the same hue as your coat and accessorize with a long necklace.
Tunic
If you are a fan of loose-fitting and oversized shirts, you will undoubtedly love tunic dresses. Inspired by the tunics that women wore during ancient times, tunic dresses are ultra comfy garments that are easy to dress up and down to suit any occasion. They are also perfect for traveling because they are made with light fabrics that you can readily squeeze into your luggage.
Go around town looking fresh and relaxed with a plain white tunic dress with a side slit design. Pair it with washed skinny jeans and lace-up sneakers. Complete the look with a beaded necklace and oversized sunglasses. You can also wear a tunic dress on its own with a pair of high heels, especially if you want to highlight your gorgeous legs.
Blouson
A blouson design is a flowy and breezy dress with a cinched waistline and blouse-like bodice. It is an ideal style if you want a less-obvious way of flaunting your slim waist. When you choose the right color, fabric, and skirt length, a blouson dress can be the ideal outfit for attending parties, romantic dinners, and even casual events.
Go for a simple red blouson pleated dress that falls below your knees to create a sexy vibe without showing too much skin. Complete the sophisticated look with silver strappy heels and a metallic clutch bag. If you want a more laid-back outfit, choose a long floral blouson dress and pair it with wedge sandals in a neutral hue. Too cold? Wear a denim jacket or long, beige cardigan over the dress to keep you warm.
The dress types discussed above are just a few of the many styles you may not know about. Or maybe you have seen them but are unfamiliar with their design names. Either way, you may want to include these dresses in your collection to have more stylish and flattering options in your wardrobe. Wear them on various occasions and have fun experimenting with different styles that suit your mood and personality. After all, fashion is all about self-expression.