40 Types of Dresses

Many factors come into play when dress buying, whether a new purchase for a special occasion or just a day-to-day piece with many shapes to discover. Get the dress code perfected with different dress styles for various occasions. Apply your personal style to classic pieces once adorned by Hollywood icons or inject some playful energy with contemporary shapes. With a rich history of experimenting with length, shapes and cuts to create iconic silhouettes, find a compiled list of the most popular dresses and advice on when and where to show off your style credentials.

1. Mini Dresses

Originally adorned by stars in the sixties making a girl power statement the mini dress remains a staple. The mini length can give petite frames the illusion of long legs for a model moment. Look at how modern icons such as Ariana Grande style minidresses with knee-high boots for style props. Whether dressing up or opting for casual attire the mini dress remains a piece found in every woman's wardrobe.

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2. Midi Dresses

The midi dress is the ideal go-to length with the hemline usually hitting the calf for the perfect in-between with mini and maxi styles. This length is ideal for formal events so you can show off your heels whilst wearing a feminine full skirt. Mix it up with form-fitting shapes or flowing pieces decorated with signature prints for an ultra-statement look.

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3. Maxi Dresses

Usually defined by floor-length and ankle-length full-length hemlines the maxi dress is a must-have silhouette for every woman's wardrobe. Whether opting for low-key ensembles with jersey and linen long dresses for women are ideal for the warmer months. For summer maxi dresses opt for designs decorated with patterned floral motifs for a floaty bohemian look.

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4. Occasion Dresses

Just received an RSVP for a wedding or attending a formal dinner? Maybe you require a special design to complement your cap and gown for your graduation day. Panic not the occasion dress is here. This term can be generalised for many events but applies to more formal dresses with demure silhouettes and premium fabric compositions for some added panache. Find an array of shapes from the Occasion Dress edit that can be paired with strappy heels and a matching clutch for a look to remember on a day to remember.

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5. Evening Dresses

Think red carpet glamour with decadent materials and embellishment for your leading lady moment. It could be for a black-tie event or an elegant evening dress for your prom night. This versatile style is usually more fitting in long evening dress lengths to ooze Old School Hollywood but could be styled however you desire with star actresses continuing to push the boundaries of evening dress silhouettes. Unleash your inner glamour goddess with statement evening dresses this season.

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6. Party Dresses

Get ready to hit the dance floor in style with signature party dresses. Add festivity to your attire with stunning mini-dresses decorated with sequin and glittering detailing for a shimmering style icon look. Depending on the dress code usually party dresses are better in shorter shapes for dancing queens. Keep it classic with a suave LBD party dress that can be accessorised with statement jewellery for that IT-girl look.

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7. Strappy Dresses

When summer comes calling it’s time to get decked out in a strappy dress. This flirty feminine style showcases your arms with delicate or thick strap detailing and features an array of necklines for versatile styling. Wear a floaty summer strappy dress decorated with playful prints for a girly look. Pair with sandals and sunnies for the ultimate warmer weather getup.

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8. Strapless Dresses (Bandeau Dresses)

Upon its scandalous creation in the 1930s, the daring strapless dress was ahead of its time. Now the strapless style is celebrated for showcasing a woman’s shoulders, arms and bust in an effortless manner. This baring piece can be styled however you desire and is suited for most occasions. Contour every part of your body with a sultry bandeau dress and accessories with a stunning necklace for a refined overall look.

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9. Long Sleeve Dresses

Whether a casual or dress-up vibe wear a long sleeve dress during the transitional season to keep your arms covered for the colder weather. Wear statement billowing sleeves or opt for a form-fitting long-sleeve dress that can be paired with tights and boots during the winter months. No matter the weather, still showcase your fashion finesse with long-sleeved silhouettes.

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10. Bodycon Dresses

Exude femininity with the iconic bodycon silhouette which contours your natural curves for a form-fitting shape. This style enhances your figure and suits hourglass shapes whether in casual jersey compositions that can be worn with sneakers and a denim jacket. Elevate your look with bandage and bandeau bodycon dresses for sultry styling that appreciates the feminine form.

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11. Shift Dresses

Since bursting on the scene in the twenties and then being reimagined in smaller lengths in the sixties the boxy silhouette of shift dresses has become an iconic shape. Pick up on the sixties sirens vibes with this loose yet structured style that falls straight from the shoulders. Often with a shorter hemline, pair your straight-shift dresses with chunky heels and a mini handbag for a Twiggy-esque feel that is still major today.

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12. Shirt Dresses

Worlds collide when the girly nature of dresses merges with the masculine energy of shirts. The results are structured styles that will take your fashion credentials to new levels. Keep it classic with an oversized shirt dress that can be paired with high-top trainers and a shoulder bag for off-duty vibes. Reimagine the shirt dress with defined waist styles which include belted detailing to showcase your body shape.

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13. Wrap Dresses

Cinch your waist with an adjustable fastening thanks to the versatile wrap dress. This esteemed silhouette came to fruition in the 1970s when designer Diane Von Furstenberg aimed to create a functional dress that didn't waver in style. Fast-forward and the wrap dress remains a popular dress type that gives the wearer an hourglass shape. Add a pinch of fashionable panache with rich satin constructions or signature prints in a kaleidoscope of colourways.

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14. Knitted Dresses

When the colder weather hits it can often feel like time to retire your dress collection. The knitted dress is the perfect go-to for the winter season whether in an oversized or figure-hugging fit. For an extra snug fit discover long-sleeve and high-necklines in lightweight knit constructions or opt for chunky cable knit styles to amplify your everyday wear.

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15. Tea Dresses

Inject some vintage vibes into your dress wardrobe with 50s-inspired tea-length dresses. This romanticised silhouette captures the essence of femininity with a fitted bodice and flowing skirt which usually falls below the knee. For the flared feel the tea dress is usually in lightweight chiffon and cotton compositions for a breezy effortless fit. For an ultra-fifties pin-up look opt for a polka-dot tea dress that can be paired with court heels and a small handbag.

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16. Skater Dresses

Originally inspired by figure skater dresses, the skater dress is the pinnacle of femininity. The fitted bodice and flared skirt suit an array of body types. This staple shape offers a playful edge that can be dressed up or down. Often in a mini-length that sits just above the knee, the skater style will elevate your ensemble and will remain on-trend season after season.

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17. Jersey Dresses

The casual masterpiece jersey dress is the ultimate comfy fit for everyday wear. This mainstay piece can be styled however you desire with loose and fitted styles all with the common denominator of this stretchy flexible material that adapts to your body’s movement and shape. The breathable jersey material provides ample opportunity to style during the summer season with sliders and sunnies for a low-key look.

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18. Smock Dresses

Figuring out what to wear in a rush? The smock dress is a must on days when you are looking for an uncomplicated fit. Often loose-fitting with a tiered skirt for a girly touch the smock provides ease-free styling. The smock accents mean this dress often creates its own shape and texture which makes it ideal for insecure days (we all have them)Discover min smock dresses decorated with floral prints for youthful energy and pair them with combat boots for unique styling.

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19. Cocktail Dresses

If you are attending a dress code event such as a sophisticated soiree you will need a semi-formal appropriate dress style. The cocktail dress code is usually defined by a fitted silhouette that compliments your body without being too risque to match the formality of the event. Made with luxurious dressy fabrics the cocktail party dress usually sits above or below the knee in a sleek tailored fit. Infusing modern elements means this style is constantly redefined with fresh perspectives and can be styled however the wearer desires.

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20. A-Line Dresses

You guessed it! The A-Line dress is known for resembling the letter “A” with a form-fitting waistline that slowly descends out to a flared skirt. This timeless style remains a firm favourite and a mainstay in every woman's wardrobe thanks to its universally flattering fit. Best represented in midi lengths add some dazzling details with voluminous frill skirts to accentuate the outline even more this season.

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21. Cut Out Dresses

Embrace modern aesthetics with cut-out dresses. This on-trend look is often modelled on the red carpet by style icons Megan Fox and Kendall Jenner who sport daring yet strategically placed cut-out detail dresses for sultry styling. This contemporary piece is made with modern women in mind who want to push the boundaries of dressing.

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22. Jumper Dresses (Sweater Dress)

Merge a causal staple with the femininity of dresses with the contemporary jumper dress. This silhouette adds a laidback element to your attire with slouchy and oversized fits in mini and midi lengths. The comfy fit will ideally be paired with sneakers and a shoulder bag for an effortless cool girl look.

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23. Fit and Flare Dresses

The name speaks for itself the fit and flare dress is a staple silhouette. With a form-fitting waist that slowly descends into a flared hemline this shape suits most frames. With a floaty element, this dress oozes femininity and comes in a plethora of patterns and colourways fitting your personal style.

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24. T-Shirt Dresses

When casual dressing you will often throw on a cotton tee so why can’t the same be applied to your dress collection? The t-shirt dress is the perfect go-to to add a contemporary yet effortless touch to your ensemble. Whether logo-emblazoned, fitted styles or just a plain oversized silhouette this trouble-free trend will become your new relaxed uniform.

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25. Blazer Dresses

For boss babe styling the blazer dress is a modern iconic. Made with cosmopolitan women in mind the blazer silhouette encapsulates the masculine energy and tailoring of this timeless piece whilst incorporating feminine elements. Opt for a belted waistline to showcase your shape or for a chic urban look pair an oversized style with loafers and tights for sleek city styling.

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26. Ball Gowns

Have a regal moment with ball gowns. Whether for an elegant wedding, gala or of course a ball, discover floor-length ball gowns. This sophisticated style often features decadent compositions and extravagant silhouettes in longer lengths. Pair your stunning ball gown with glistening jewellery and heels for a princess-perfect moment.

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27. Slip Dresses (Cami Dresses)

Whether worn standalone or underneath transparent dresses the slip dress is a much-needed wardrobe necessity. Often in minimalist designs and lightweight fashioning (think satin or silk) slip dresses or camisoles are known for being effortlessly understated in strappy designs. Following a revival in the 90s the cami dresses started to form their own identity other than being an undergarment and continues to remain relevant with the underwear meets outerwear trend.

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28. Denim Dresses

Update a denim skirt to the next level. Add some denim to your dress wardrobe for a modern touch. This versatile fabric merged with fresh silhouettes and structured detailing creates a unique piece for your wardrobe. Reimagine denim shirts, dungarees and jumpsuits with fitted skirt bottoms for a contemporary perspective. Have your own Britney and Justin denim-on-denim moment.

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29. Hoodie Dresses

Take laid-back looks to new levels with hoodie dresses. The name does the talking with this signature style often in ultra-comfy jersey constructions. The perfect piece to pop on whilst running errands. This low-key piece is best paired with trainers and cycling shorts for a chic 90s athleisure look.

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30. Tunic Dresses

This loose-fitting legend channels the swinging sixties whilst effortlessly adapting to any occasion. The go-to tunic dress can hide your problem areas whilst remaining stylish. Show off your pins with hemlines usually sitting mid-thigh length. This simple silhouette usually gives some added panache with funky prints or embellished detailing for statement styling.

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31. Milkmaid Dresses

Pure nostalgic vibes the Milkmaid Dress was named after the traditional attire of milkmaids. A cottage-core aesthetic encapsulating pure romanticism emphasises the bust and waist with a structured bodice and puff sleeves. The feminine neckline is often in a square or sweetheart for a sultry touch. Wear mini silhouettes for the summertime and midi lengths for stunning wedding guest dresses.

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32. Swing Dresses

With a loose relaxed fit, it is no surprise that the Swing Dress remains a firm style favourite. Usually in a knee-length silhouette, the swing dress offers comfortable unrestricted movement and a variety of necklines to be styled however you desire. With slightly flared skirts for a flirty feminine feel this style is a must-have for women’s dress wardrobe.

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33. Corset Dresses

If you wish to accentuate your waist, opt for alluring Corset Dresses. This style exudes femininity with a corset-like structure to the top achieved through boning or lacing. Ideal for events such as weddings and proms this defined piece is a must for fashionistas. Pay homage to dresses of the past with form-fitting silhouettes.

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34. Polo Dresses

Often donned by tennis players, a Polo Dress offers the ultimate sporty vibe. The top half of this style features the classic polo pointed collar neckline and is usually constructed with lightweight cotton pique. Whether a sport or preppy look this silhouette usually has short sleeves making it the perfect summertime piece.

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35. Off The Shoulder Dresses

An integral dress silhouette that exudes femininity the alluring Off-The-Shoulder neckline has been adorned by women for centuries. This timeless shape showcases a woman's neckline for seductive styling. For additional accents, frill detailing is often added to the neck for a floaty feminine aesthetic.

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36. Pinafore Dresses

Whether buttoned up or popped over your head the Pinafore Dress style adds a playful touch to your ensemble. Garnering a lot of popularity in the 90s pinafore was known for their apron stape. Usually paired over a t-shirt or blouse this versatile piece can create many looks. Typically worn for casual days, pair a co-ord pinafore with a high neck top for effortless transitional styling.

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37. Halter Neck Dresses

Often donned for formal events during the summertime the halter neck dress is a style where the straps are to the neck exposing your shoulders and arms. Mostly in luxury lightweight chiffon and silk compositions, this piece is a go-to to add a sultry yet sophisticated touch to your wardrobe.

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38. High-Low Dresses/ Dip Hem Dresses

Short at the front and low at the back dresses are called High-Low dresses due to the dropped hem. This asymmetrical dress showcases your legs without shortening the hemline and has been donned on the red carpet by Meghan Markle. Adding a fun touch to classic dress characteristics this silhouette is a go-to if you have some glamorous shoes to show off but require a long dress for the occasion.

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39. Backless Dresses

Take classic dress shapes and elevate them with a backless feature. For the ultimate allure open back options add a daring choice to your dress collection. Why not take this glamorous look even further with pearl or diamante accents for a luxury touch?

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40. Peplum Dresses

The Peplum Dress is usually defined as a ruffle attachment (usually to the waist) that accentuates the figure. This subtle or striking design feature can be applied to an array of silhouettes including fitted sheath dresses or tailored styles. Let the frills do the talking with sophisticated block colourways for a demure look.

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FAQs

What colour dress goes with everything?

Black dresses or LBD

When looking for timeless styles that can be styled however you desire you can’t go wrong with chic monochrome pieces. The black and white colourways can be easily coordinated with footwear, accessories and outerwear for effortless styles. Whether a white dress for the summertime or a classic LBD, these colourways are a MUST for every woman's wardrobe. Take the words of legendary designer Karl Lagerfeld ‘One is never over-dressed or underdressed in a Little Black Dress

How do you wear dresses in different styles?

Many dresses can be worn however you desire but our pick of seasonal go-to dresses to dress up or casually are Floral Print Dresses and Turtleneck Dresses.

Spring/ Summer: Floral dresses are ideal for your wardrobe during the warmer seasons to add youthful energy to your wardrobe. This motif can be perfectly paired with sneakers or sandals for everyday looks or paired with heels for special events such as wedding guest outfits!

Autumn/Winter: Finding the perfect dress for this season can be tricky with temperamental weather changes. The Turtleneck Dress provides the perfect opportunity to wrap up in styles whether paired with boots and a trench or accessories with statement jewellery to give your outfit some panache.

How many dresses should a woman own?

As many as you want! The simple answer is your style and body type impact your selection of dresses. Our recommendations for your personal dress wardrobe would be to have day dresses for the warmer months, formal dresses for special occasions (weddings, proms or a night on the dancefloor) and work dresses for the appropriate office attire.