20 Types of Dresses That’ll Never Go Out of Style, According to Fashion Experts

The Gist

Dresses are the ultimate proof that timeless style never goes out of fashion.

From figure-flattering shifts, sultry minis to flowy maxis, there’s a style of dress to suit your needs.

We asked fashion experts Diarra Bousso and Diana LoMonaco what their favorite types of dresses are and how they like to style them.

Dresses are the ultimate proof that timeless style never goes out of fashion. The sheer number of dress styles available today—from figure-flattering shifts to flowy maxis—demonstrates just how versatile this wardrobe staple really is. Whether you’re gearing up for a special event or simply looking for something easy to throw on, the right dress can seamlessly adapt to any occasion. As fashion experts will tell you, the key to a perfect dress is versatility.

« As a designer, I appreciate dress styles that cater to different occasions and body types, » says Diarrablu founder Diarra Bousso. « Dresses that offer both style and comfort while accommodating the changing weather and allowing for versatile layering are ideal, » she adds. And she’s not the only fashion pro who thinks that. In fact, Diana LoMonaco, founder of Classic Six, echoes this sentiment.

Meet Our Expert

Below, find a list of 20 types of dresses that you can easily add to your ‘fit rotation—straight from Bousso and LoMonaco.

Turtleneck Dress

Turtlenecks are synonymous with chilly temps, and a sweater dress strikes a perfect balance between chic and cozy. « Turtleneck dresses exude fall sophistication, » says Bousso, who recommends pairing this type of dress with ankle or knee-high boots, depending on the neckline.

Flowy Maxidress

Conversely, if you’re looking for a dress that’s perfect for warmer months, consider an airy maxidress. Since these garments are lightweight, they’re also really breathable. Plus, opting for a lighter shade—like white or pastels—won’t call in the sun rays.

Nap Dress

Repopularized by Hill House, a brand that keeps the style fresh by dropping new silhouettes and prints each season, you’ll spot at least one nap dress variation in outfit rotations from early spring to fall. It’s a comfy look that’s still playful and structured enough to be a fashion statement.

Shirtdress

A genre-defying style chameleon, shirtdresses evolved from an oversized menswear-inspired silhouette and now feature a wide range of fits and silhouettes. Mini and midi shirtdresses have a causal vibe that can be dressed up with heels or down with sneakers while maxi shirtdresses have become formal event staples. Whatever length you choose, LoMonoca cites this type of dress as one of the easiest to style causally or more formally.

Wrap Dress

Among all types of dresses, a wrap dress just might be the most classically timeless silhouette. It’s definitely, as Bousso puts it, « a true wardrobe essential. » There are many reasons the wrap dress boasts decades of icon status, and Bousso sums its virtues up nicely, saying, « Its adjustable fit allows for versatility and comfort, making it suitable for both formal and casual settings. I love how it accentuates the waist and offers a hint of playfulness with its crossover front, and it looks beautiful across all size ranges. » Here, here.

Tips

Wondering which shoes to wear with which dresses? Consider ballet flats for a minidress, kitten heels for a mididress, and cowboy boots for denim dresses.

Long-Sleeved Minidress

With a short hemline balanced by more coverage on top, a long-sleeved minidress is perfect for occasions with a conservative-leaning dress code that might exclude other minidresses. « The long sleeves play with the proportions of a mini skirt, » says LoMonaco, adding that this type of dress looks equally put together when worn with shoes ranging from sneakers to stilettos.

Denim Dress

Denim remains a staple material in fashion because it’s wildly versatile. One way to put an innovative spin on a tried-and-true textile is by wearing it in an unexpected way—i.e., a dress. While the one photographed here is an elevated version, you can also opt for something more dressed-down, like a minidress.

Slip Dress

This celebrity summer favorite is a true chameleon among dresses. It can transform into a slinky skirt when worn under a sweater, become part of a rock concert uniform, and carry you from day to night with the help of a blazer. Thanks to its traditionally loose fit, a lingerie-inspired slip dress can also be layered over shirts and tees for a more modest—not to mention warmer—outfit.

T-Shirt Dress

A simple T-shirt dress is always great to have on hand for errands, lounging, or low-key nights out. Best of all? It’s equally cool when worn with a varsity jacket and kicks or heels and a statement bag. The allure of this type of dress is the same as the allure of a basic white tee: it’s effortless, classic, and easy.

Leather Dress

Another unexpected material not typically seen in dresses is leather or pleather. The textile tends to read as edgy or sexy, but when worn over a white T-shirt, it’s a bit more on the casual side. Here, fashion influencer Emilie Joseph dons white pumps to avoid leaning all the way into a casual look.

Sheath Dress

This relatively conservative dress style is as much of a staple in business casual settings as it is at weddings and semi-formal daytime parties. Well-fitted, but not clingy, from shoulder to hemline, it operates a lot like a blank canvas, allowing you to highlight statement accessories, create a striking monochromatic ensemble, or fly, quietly and luxuriously, under the radar with a minimalist outfit.

Bodycon Dress

Bodycon doesn’t automatically refer to club wear. Rather, a bodycon dress is one with a bit of structure or support that hugs (and celebrates) your curves. It also happens to be one of the best types of dresses for layering, whether under an oversized blazer, a snuggly flannel, or a roomy button-down shirt.

A-Line Dress

A classic A-line silhouette is practically foolproof. Appropriate for any occasion and season (with the right styling, of course), you can wear a sleeveless version on its own during summer months, over a long-sleeve tee in the fall, or a fitted sweater in the winter. Looking to DIY the silhouette? Simply incorporate a belt.

Strapless Mididress

Elegant and unique, a strapless mididress toes the line between provocative sensuality and reserved dignity. It shines as a cocktail dress for a formal event or a red hot date night look and, like all essential types of dresses, can be radically transformed with the right outerwear layers.

Tips

Given that this is a strapless style, you’ll want to try on the garment to ensure that you’ve got all the support you need in the bust area. If you don’t, consider investing in a well-made strapless bra.

Sweater Dress

« As the weather gets chillier, a sweater dress becomes a must-have, » says Bousso. While the primary characteristic of this type of dress is its texture, that doesn’t mean you’re limited to a single silhouette. « Whether it’s a cowl neck, or V-neck style, sweater dresses provide both warmth and style, » Bousso says, adding that « you can accessorize with scarves and knee-high boots for a complete fall ensemble. »

Shift Dress

Similar to sheath dresses, but with a looser fit throughout, shift dresses are a type of dress that run the gamut from minimal to opulent. Add a slightly more minimal shift dress to your closet and amp it up with accessories. That said, a dramatically embellished or boldly printed shift dress is equally as timeless.

One-Shoulder Maxidress

For more formal occasions, a one-shoulder maxidress is a great option. « The off-the-shoulder maxidress holds a special place in my heart, » says Bousso. « The neckline adds a touch of romance and elegance, while the maxi length creates a sense of drama and grandeur. »

LBD

Last but certainly not least is the iconic LBD. If there’s one dress you keep in your closet, it should be this one. For maximum versatility, shop for a little black dress that hits above the knee and has subtle, rather than easily recognizable, details so you can reinvent it over and over again.

Sundress

A summer staple, sundresses are both practical and stylish. While they’re typically short-sleeved or sleeveless, a long-sleeved number—like the trending butter yellow one shown here—is ideal when temps aren’t too high (try for early or late in the season). Accessorize with a pair of shades and platform peep-toe sandals for a garden party-ready outfit.

Halter Dress

Depending on how high the neckline falls on your halter dress, it can read as conservative or sexy. The dress is versatile, meaning, it’s for anyone. However, since halters minimize width, those with broad shoulders may find it especially appealing. Consider pairing your dress with sneakers to lend your look an air of effortlessness.

Read the original article on InStyle