Fashionable, comfortable, and versatile - what's not to love about a shift dress? If you're looking for an easy go-to look that you can dress up or down, a shift dress is an answer. What's more, these fun and flirty dresses are perfect for every season and figure type.
But with so many rocking shift dress ideas, it can be hard to know where to start. Luckily, we've put together the ultimate guide on how to style a shift dress for any occasion.
What is a Shift Dress?
A shift dress is a dress that hangs straight down from the shoulders and does not cinch at the waist and tends to stop right above the knees. Traditionally, shift dresses for women are sleeveless but they have evolved over the years to include long sleeves and of varying lengths. Its straight silhouette makes it versatile as it can be dressed up or down, making it perfect for any occasion.
Who Made the Shift Dress Famous?
The 1920s gave birth to the shift dress, known as the flapper dress back then. It was designed to be comfortable and easy to move in - perfect for dancing the night away! Unlike the dresses with fitted waists and large skirts that dominated that era, the shift dress made a mark for its simplicity and boyish silhouette. Naturally, the shift dress became a popular staple in the 1920s. With the liberating feeling it provided women, it became a symbol of the changing times- a fashion-forward way for women to assert their financial and social independence.
Despite the shift dress originating in the 1920s, its comeback was in the 1960s. From the fashion icon Audry Hepburn to Jean Shrimpton at the Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne, the shift dress became a style that was worn by many. And its chic yet simple style has carried its weight in the fashion world, with the shift dress remaining a wardrobe staple even today.
How Can I Make My Shift Dress More Flattering?
If you're looking to add a bit more shape to your shift dress, there are a few easy ways to do so. Here are three ways to make a shift dress for women more flattering:
Add A Belt
It's simple, really! Adding a belt to your shift dress is an easy way to add some definition to your waistline and create a more hourglass-like silhouette. Just make sure that the belt you choose is not too bulky - a thin leather or fabric belt will do the trick.
Make Sure It's Well-Tailored
Your body is unique and beautiful in its own way. So finding a shift dress that fits you well is key to ensuring that it flatters your figure. A well-tailored shift dress will highlight your best assets and will not only make you feel confident but also look amazing.
Choose The Right Neckline
The neckline of your shift dress can also make a big difference in how flattering it is. If you're looking to accentuate your curves, opt for a shift dress with a V-neck. This will help to create the illusion of a slimmer waist.
Can an Apple Shape Wear a Shift Dress?
Most definitely!
A shift dress can be incredibly flattering on an apple shape or for our curvy-confident ladies. The key is to choose a shift dress that hits right at the knee or below to create the illusion of a longer and leaner silhouette. You can also add a belt to help define your waistline or opt for a shift dress with a V-neck to draw attention to your curves.
5 Ways To Style Shift Dresses For Women
Now that you know all there is to know about shift dresses, it's time to start styling! Here are five shift dress ideas to get you started:
Professional & Chic
Whether you're headed to the office or have a meeting to attend, you can easily style your chic long-sleeved black shift dress for a professional look. Simply add a black jacket and pair it with closed-toe heels. A black shift dress offers a timeless look that remains professional in any setting.
Wild Night Out
For a night out on the town, opt for an animal print dress or a vibrantly patterned shift dress. Then, you can add some fun and sexy heels to make your look pop. Or better yet, take your look to the next level by adding a black jacket and statement earrings.
Summertime Fun
Summertime is all about carefree fun. And what better way to show that than with a shift dress? For a casual summer look, pair a tropical print long-sleeved shift dress with some flats or sandals. Or if you're headed to the beach, add a straw hat, a sling bag, and some sunglasses.
Spring Florals
As the weather starts to warm up, embrace the changing season with a bold peacock shift dress. Add a denim jacket and some sneakers for a casual look. Or dress it up with heels and a statement necklace for a more sophisticated vibe. And never shy away from wearing black in Spring. A black shift dress can be a timeless piece that you can rock all year round.
Laid Back & Casual
Whether you're running errands or spending time with friends, a Jersey black shift dress is a perfect choice for a laid-back and casual look. Simply pair your long-sleeve shift dress with some sneakers or flats and you're good to go. If you want to add a bit of edge to your look, throw on a denim jacket.
Ready To Rock Your Shift Dress?
From the 1920s to the modern era, the shift dress has remained a fashion staple. And there's no wonder why - it's comfortable, flattering, and can be styled for any occasion. So whether you're looking for a professional or casual look, a shift dress is always a good choice.
And now that you know all there is to know about shift dresses, it's time to start shopping for your perfect one. And don't forget to have fun with these shift dress ideas! After all, fashion is all about expressing your unique sense of style.
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