Diamonds are great and all, but if you ask us, dresses are a girl’s best friend. They’re versatile, comfortable and fun for both work and casual days. With so many options out there, it can be tricky to navigate which styles and cuts will suit you best. Our Stylists put together this amazing guide with a simple approach to finding the best dress for you.
Types of dress waistlines
Where the waist falls on a dress determines a lot about the fit, shape and styling of a dress. From the high profile of empire to the low-riding, drop-waist style and beyond, how do you know which is right for you? We’ve got the details to help you figure it out.
|
EMPIRE WAIST Just under your bust |
A-LINE Fitted at your natural waist |
DROP WAIST Sits at the upper hip |
A-line dress
The term “A-line dress” debuted with Christian Dior’s 1955 spring collection—and we’ve been obsessed with this simple silhouette ever since. A-line dresses are fitted from shoulders to your waist, and then gradually flare out to the hem. The magic in this shape is that it’s versatile: it pairs well underneath a blazer or cardigan for work, with heels and statement jewels for a more formal look—even with sneakers and a crossbody bag for a casual feel. This dress is often considered the most universal dress shape, and it’s a timeless piece for any wardrobe. Stylist Jordan agrees: “We love an A-Line dress because this silhouette is an easy go-to for all occasions.”
Empire-waist dress
Empire dresses (pronounced ahm-peer, from the French) have been around since Napoleon (1815!) and are making a comeback (Bridgerton, anyone?). Empire dresses have a fitted bodice, then fall loosely from the bust down. This style is designed to highlight a woman’s decolletage (that’s fashion talk for “neckline”) and flow freely through the gathered skirt. This style is a favorite for just about everyone.
Drop-waist dress
The drop-waist dress came to fashion in the 1920s, when the dress of the day had a low belt or cinch and a hemline between the ankle and knee. The name comes from the location of the waist being “dropped” below your natural waist, often at the hip level with a straight-cut designed to give the illusion of an elongated waist. The key to a proper fit for a drop-waist dress? Look for one that lighty skims the body.
Find your favorite dress shape
Now that you’ve got a handle on the waistline, let’s look at dress shape and style. There are a lot of great dress options out there, from casual to workwear to formal. To help you navigate, our Stylists have narrowed it down to their top 5 favorite dress styles to add to your rotation. Bookmark this page to refer to when shopping, or request your fave styles in a Fix and see what your Stylist recommends for you!
 |
What is a fit + flare dress?Cue the confetti drop: The fit-and-flare dress is a timeless piece that looks great on everyone. This classic style is a version of the A-line dress with more flair in the flare—fitted through the bodice and flaring out right above the hip, accentuating the waist.
How to style a fit + flare dress:Because of its balanced proportions, this dress is truly a winner for every body type. To complement this style, start with the right footwear: classic pumps or strappy sandals elevate the look for formal events, while ankle boots or ballet flats offer a more casual, everyday vibe. Layering is key: a cropped cardigan or tailored blazer accentuates the fit + flare’s tailored silhouette without overwhelming it.
Accentuate the positive: Great for showing off your bust, waist and arms |
 |
What is a slip dress?A slip dress is sleek and minimalist, typically made from lightweight, drapey materials like silk or satin. It features thin spaghetti straps and a bias-cut, often figure-skimming silhouette. How to style a slip dress:Originally worn as undergarments, slip dresses have evolved into fashionable pieces popular for their effortless elegance and versatility. For a casual look, take a cue from the ‘90s and layer over a cool tee with a denim jacket and sneakers. Take it to work with a cardigan or blazer. For a more elegant vibe, pair it with heels and statement jewelry. Accentuate the positive:Great for showing off your collarbone, shoulders and arms |
 |
What is a shift dress?Also called a column dress, a shift is characterized by its simple, straight silhouette that hangs loosely from the shoulders with a subtle swings at the knee. Easy and free to move in, the shift dress professional, comfortable and stylish—an absolute workwear essential. How to style a shift dress:This simple style doesn’t need much to dress it up. For work, add simple earrings, a blazer and leather loafers. For a casual outing, ballet flats or Mary Janes with a denim jacket and crossbody bag will do the trick. Accentuate the positive:Great for showing off your arms and calves |
 |
What is a wrap dress?This incredibly flattering style came to the spotlight in the 1970s. A wrap dress is characterized by its front closure which wraps across the body and ties at the waist, creating a V-neckline and adjustable fit. How to style a wrap dress:The wrap dress is known for its versatility, as it’s easy to style up or down. For a daytime look, pair with leather flats. Heels or booties create a more polished look—the knee-length fit makes this style perfect for day-to-night styling. And don’t be afraid to go for the bold. This iconic silhouette gets even better in bright patterns or color. And here’s a little Stylist’s secret: for the same shape and waist cinch with a more secure neckline, reach for faux wrap dress styles. |
 |
What is a sheath dress?The sheath dress is form-fitting and often features a straight or slightly tapered shape. It typically falls slightly above the knee, exuding sophistication and elegance. This elevated style is great for date nights, cocktail parties and everything in between. How to style a sheath dress:When styling a sheath dress, make the most of the style’s tapered shape and opt for classic cocktail accessories, such as heels and a clutch. A structured jacket and handbag complete the ensemble, creating a refined and timeless look suitable for various occasions.
|
Find Your Length
From sky-high to floor-grazing, get a (ahem!) leg up on which lengths you’ll love. Our Stylist Jordan gives her best tips to help you feel confident branching out to new heights.
MINI DRESS
The traditional rule of thumb for a mini dress is that it should be “fingertip length,” where your fingers hit your thighs when your arms are straight down at your sides—this is a practical way to make sure you have enough skirt to sit on. Want to buck tradition? Go as short as you like and layer over cheeky bike shorts or opaque tights, pair pair with tall boots. Do you love showing off your legs? Are you feeling fun and flirty? Then make your dress a mini.
Styling tip:
“Add bold jewelry and white sneakers to give your mini dress a trending, street-style look.”
-Stylist Jordan
KNEE-LENGTH DRESS
The classic knee-length dress is self-defining: a dress with a hemline designed to fall right at the wearer’s knees. This length is a staple in business casual and professional settings and is elegant for a night out. It also keeps you comfortable with easy-breezy movement in the skirt.
Styling tip:
“Accentuate your waist and add structure by pairing a thin belt with your knee-length dress.”
-Stylist Jordan
MIDI DRESS
Midi dresses are any length that falls below the knee but above the ankle. Midi dresses are a versatile piece that deserve a spot in every wardrobe. Stylist Jordan recommends throwing a blazer over your midi dress for work (leave it in the car for a night out). A hem that falls just below the knee will accentuate curves when paired with a killer heel.
Styling tip:
“To elongate the midi dress silhouette, opt for pointed-toe flats, heels or even knee-high boots.”
-Stylist Jordan
MAXI DRESS
The maxi dress falls between the wearer’s ankle and the floor to create a long, flowing look. Great news: this length looks awesome on every body type and is as comfortable as it gets. Stylist Jordan encourages petite women not to shy away from the maxi, and to ask your Stylist for a maxi option that will work with your height. The maxi is a perfect summer dress, as the light fabric lets the breeze flow. It’ll also serve you well in cooler temps when paired with a jean jacket or sweater (add boots and tights and take it right through winter). Add a platform sandal to keep the dress hem from dragging and style on point.
Styling tip:
“Maximize your boho vibes with layered accessories like bangles, necklaces and a raffia tote”.
-Stylist Jordan
Find your fave dress in a Fix
Ready to find your perfect dress? Take note of the waistline, hem length and style combo that’ll best suit your life and style goals. Our expert Stylists are here to help. Take your style quiz, schedule a Fix and tell your Stylist about your ideal dress features in your Fix Note. Sit back and relax while they make you best dress-ed. Shipping, returns and exchanges are always free.
