Various types of dresses are available in an array of styles and designs, from laid-back sundresses to formal ball gowns depending on the occasion, body shape and personal preference. Thus, knowing the types of dresses will enable you to choose the best one for your body shape that expresses who you are.
Ever question yourself as to why some dresses evoke power while others appear to be charming? Take a plunge into the realm of dress classifications and learn how every design has a unique narrative, crafted especially for you.
Flatter A-line cuts to glamorous shells mermaid hemlines are made just to uplift your fashion and confidence. Dive into such alluring designs and see how they can change your looks for all occasions.
What is a dress?
A dress is a one-piece piece of clothes that covers the body from the shoulders down, with different lengths, styles and shapes. It’s a multi-functional wardrobe essentially worn for informal, ceremonial and every other occasion in between.
How many types of dresses are there?
There is a variety of dresses that are intended for different body types, occasions and fashion styles. From uncomplicated sundresses to sophisticated evening wear, there are a variety of styles that range from the basic to the complex, among which more than 50 popular ones are recognizable at the present time.
How are dresses categorized?
Dresses are classified on different criteria such as the way they look from the outside, different kinds of dresses and types of dresses include formal dresses; casual dresses; evening dresses; cocktail dresses and so on.
What types of dresses are there?
In this list, there are 52 famous western dresses with pictures showing the most general depiction of them.
A-Line Dress
The waist area of the dress is designed to fit tightly while its lower part spreads outwards resembling a letter “A”. An A-Line knee length dress made for work and casual occasions too.
Maxi Dress
Maxi dresses that are long and flowy usually go up to the ankle level. A flowery dress which is appropriate for a summer trip by the sea.Jewel-toned satin cascading ever so smoothly.Poetry in motion, the soft shades of poetry dancing at dusk.
Read More About: How To Choose A Dress That’s Right For You AND The Occasion
Mini Dress
Hemmers that skim the inner thighs but are quite audacious.It remains a figure that never seems to go out of fashion.Today’s leg show is full of self-confidence that is unimaginable to many people.
Sheath Dress
A sculptural silhouette wraps around every curve, from the breast to the hip to the knee.
In general, minimalist design usually includes a back slit for free movement.
The adaptable symbol moves effortlessly from the office to happy hour.
Shift Dress
Involving the absence of shoulders with regular cut shapes, it is a freely hanging silhouette that glides down the body. Usually sleeveless and with a high neckline, it captures the essence of the 1960s mod style. It is an adaptable surface ideal for vivid patterns or color blocking; it is loved for its warmth and simplicity.
Wrap Dress
The fabric which intersects each other over here and ties on the side is what creates the V-neck and cinched waist.
The adjustable fit works well with different body shapes as it brings out the figure while at the same time covering some parts.
This timeless design was made famous by Diane von Furstenberg, combining sophistication and comfortable use.
Bodycon Dress
Superfluous skin hugging designs outlines the body shape of the buyer
Made of elastic and fitting materials, usually spandex or jersey.
Commonly used in night parties and movie premiere shows they are characterized with poise and eroticism.
Peplum Dress
The bodice of a dress that is closely fitting but has a frill or flap round its midsection which results in an appearance of a small waist.
The peplum design on a dress gives added space around the hips, making different kinds of bodies look better by balancing their proportions.
Mermaid Dress
Tightly slashed through bust and waist, with an important flare beneath the knees. The figure resembles that of a mermaid’s tail making it look absolutely fabulous and statue-like. Frequently found in evening dresses or wedding gowns, emanating sheer glamor and sophistication like in Hollywood movies.
Ball Gown
A fitted bodice combines with a full skirt that extends out from the waistline in dramatic fashion. Oftentimes, they are long enough to reach the floor and are made of several layers of tulle, tafta or silk that give it an impressive look akin to those found in fairy-tales. This is the formal outfit of choice for galas, proms and weddings which stands for majesty and romanticism.
Tea-Length Dress
The hemline usually rests between the knees and the ankles, mostly at mid-calf length, giving it an elegant appearance.It was most favored in the 1950s as it fuses the sophistication of a long gown with the convenience of a brief one.A flexible design ideal for semi-formal occasions, garden occasions, and nuptials with a vintage flair.
Midi Dress
Out of the knee and ankle, usually mid-calf, hemline is an ideal and convenient length.
Good-matched elegance and simplicity making it suitable for different occasions and body shapes.In the 1940s it became popular again recently as a stylish substitute for mini and maxi dresses.
Sundress
A warm-weather & casual comfort dress that is typically lightweight and may have no sleeves.Usually made from a breathable fabric (such as cotton or linen); bright colors and cheerful prints are its usual features.Such dresses are versatile summer essentials worn by women; they come in the form of simple A-line cuts to more fitted styles with a feminine touch.
Empire Waist Dress
It’s characterized by a high waistline that falls right beneath the bust, along with a loose, flowing skirt.It elongates the form and has a lengthening effect, complimenting different bodily shapes.Its origin can be traced back to France in the late 18th century when Empress Joséphine made it famous and continues to exist as an everlasting, enchanting style.
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High-Low Dress
There’s the uneven hemline which is shorter at the front and longer at the rear causing an appearance of a waterfall. This dress has managed to bring together both the charm of a mini outfit combined with that of an elongated one. Such outfits are mostly used during cocktail occasions and proms since they balance between being too exposed on legs and having an elaborate design.
Tunic Dress
A garment that is straight-cut, loose-fitting and hangs from the shoulders, usually to mid-thigh.It has a simple boxy shape with little or no shaping, emphasizing comfort and ease.This piece of clothing can be worn alone or over pants or leggings, making it versatile; it is especially favored in bohemian and relaxed styles.
Slip Dress
It is not a dress but it’s very beautiful and sexy.I mean, you can spend all day in this thing, right? My grandmother had quite a few of these dresses when we were growing up; she was wearing them as nightgowns. They are so comfortable they make me feel like I am undressing at night. You could wear one all afternoon without being ashamed.
Skater Dress
Bodice that is fitted combines seamlessly with a circular skirt that ends in a flare making it similar to a figure skater’s outfit.
Usually it touches above the knee thus giving rise to a fun and young look which moves with swaying action.It has become more popular with young people due to its charming design, adaptability and day-to-night shift.
Shirt Dress
Inspiration taken from men’s button-down shirts such as collars, button fronts, and commonly waist-belted ones.
Combines a dressiness of knee-length or midi with a casual comfort of a shirt.
The style is simply versatile hence can be worn for formal and informal occasions; it is known for its elegant simplicity as well as professional; it is used to provide casual environments.
Sweater Dress
A dress made of a sweater is a garment that is both versatile and inviting to wear; it has the fashion features of a dress as well as the warm qualities of a pull-over top. Generally speaking, it comes in an hourglass shape from knitted material mostly using wool or some sort of mixture with it.
Dressing these types of dresses can go either way, which means they may be used for going out casually or even wearing at workplaces.
Qipao (Cheongsam)
Qipao is the name for the traditional Chinese dress, which was developed in the 1920s and is also called cheongsam. It is tailored to conform to one’s body shape with a high collar, fitted waistline, and has slits on sides. Often made of silk or any finer cloth embroidered with complex designs, it’s a symbol of modernity as well as cultural heritage.
Tulle Dress
Tulle dresses look dreamy and ethereal because they are made of lightweight fabric that is a net-like one.
Usually, tulle is used in formal and bridal wear hence the tulle dresses sample a wide range from full blown ball gowns to tea dresses with different layers of tulle.
This material can be made into different styles including romantic, fairy-like designs as well as contemporary and fashionable pieces of clothing.
Blouson Dress
A blouson dress is characterized by a tight waistband or elasticized waist which is accompanied by a voluminous top part that falls over the waistline.
Blouson dresses can come in different kinds of materials as well as lengths; this makes them appropriate for everyday casual wear and even higher class night outfits.
Bardot Dress
French actress Brigitte Bardot has her own design of Bardot dress, which includes exposed shoulders and collarbone with off-the-shoulder neckline.
Bardot dresses come in various shapes including informal summer ones as well as sophisticated evening attires mostly characterized by form-fitted bodices or elegant long skirts.
Asymmetrical Dress
A dress that is asymmetrical has an irregularly shaped hem on its bottom side or at the neck, making it alive and catching the eyes.
The hem may vary slightly or have steep angles cutting across the body offering a contemporary touch to it.
Gown
Formal dresses known as gowns are usually worn on special occasions, ceremonies and elegant events.
Gowns often have luxurious fabrics, elaborate details, and flowing silhouettes that give them an aura of magnificence and refinement.
Fit and Flare Dress
A fitted bodice that clings to the upper body and a skirt that flares out from the waist are defining features of a fit and flare dress.
This style creates an hourglass shape, emphasizing the waist and giving it a lovely feminine look suitable for many body structures.
Halter Dress
The halter dress is designed sleeveless with bands encircling the neck.
Usually it exposes shoulders and upper back which gives it a graceful appearance that is feminine.
Halter dresses may be of any length ranging from small ones to those that sweep the floor in style, making them suitable for both official and unofficial ceremonies.
Corset Dress
A high industry professional would say that a corset dress has a bodice that is close-fitting and rigid in structure, thus molding waist and torso into correct shape. There are often laces or bones which shape the silhouette by clinging to and making a more curvaceous body of its owner.
Bohemian (Boho) Dress
Bohemian or “boho” dresses are characterized by their free-spirited, romantic, and unconventional style.
These dresses are characterized by flowing fabric, natural colors, and complex patterns (such as floral motifs or paisley).
Typically, boho dresses have loose, relaxed silhouettes and may incorporate elements such as layered skirts, bell sleeves, or handmade details like embroidery or fringe.
Pencil Dress
From bust to knee a pencil dress is an extremely fitting attire that comports perfectly in conformity. With the shape of one’s body.
Usually, it includes a straight, slim skirt which in a charming manner narrows down. Slightly as it goes down its hem thus giving out an appealing shape.
Tent Dress
A tent dress is described as a large, triangular outfit which has a loose form that. Becomes wider as it gets to the bottom from the shoulder.
She does not shape the waist in any way but drops down freely from the body thus producing. A spacious and free looking figure.
Grecian Dress
The ancient Greece garment inspired the Grecian attire which is composed of flowing soft fabrics. It has usually a long column-like shape embellished with gathered fabric at the waist or shoulders. One-shouldered, empire waists and gentle pleats are some of the defining characteristics of these dresses.
Bandeau Dress
Emphasizing a strapless and tube-like top that wraps ardently across the bust. With sometimes added elastic support, this garment is known as a bandeau dress. The body-fitted dress usually has a shape that is either closely fitted to the body shape. Or slightly free depending on its style.
Camisole Dress
Camisole dresses usually have slender spaghetti straps and a body-hugging bodice similar to a camisole blouse. The skirt of this style can be straight, slightly flared, mini or maxi lengthwise. This type of garment is very flexible. It can be used to create layers or may be worn as stand-alones alike for both informal and formal settings.
Pinafore Dress
Pinafore dress is the one with no sleeves and shapes like an apron. This dress has either a square or round neck, adjustable straps and it has pockets. The design is suitable for various occasions giving it both a fun and youthful. Appearance that can be made to look more or less formal.
Ruffle Dress
Ruffled dresses are dresses that are more girl- like in nature and more fun. They have layers of ruffles or frills around their necklines, sleeves, hems or bodices. Giving the dress an impression of gentleness, the ruffles add movement and also texture to it. Ruffled dresses are flexible; thus they can be found either in casual, cocktail or formal designs.
Tiered Dress
A layered costume is made up of numerous sheets or layers of fabric that come together to form a dress that is both full-bodied and free-flowing. Gathered or ruffled layers are typically incorporated into the design in order to lend 3D experience and dynamism during movement. The look has a laid-back carefree feel which makes it suitable for informal as well as formal arrangements.
Babydoll Dress
Beneath the bust, there is an empire waistline that creates a shape that is both playful and youthful. The babydoll dress is generally short and loose. The style may have certain embellishments like lace, a bow. Or puff sleeves which give it a childish and cute appearance. Generally recognized for being loose-fitting, this kind of dress is ideal for an innocent but attractive look.
Kaftan Dress
The kaftan dress is one such attire which,as a”loose”,flared outfit with wide sleeves ,for instance, can sometimes reach ankle length. It has decorative designs in bright hues and more often than not possesses sophisticated needlework. Or trinkets.In terms of both relaxed nature and fashionable appeal among ordinary people.
Trench Dress
The inspiration behind a trench dress is from an original trench. Coat that has a structured silhouette, belted waistline, double-breasted buttons as well as sometimes a notched collar. It gives most clothes tailored appearance with some details such as epaulets. Storm flaps or a tie belt thus making it stylish and fashionable.
Blazer Dress
The blazer dress is an elegant piece of clothing that consists of a tailored jacket. And a longer version of it made in the form of a dress. It might have lapels, double-breasted or single-breasted buttons, and a waist that is cinched. This provides a strong and sophisticated look blending masculinity with femininity to create contemporary chic.
Kimono Dress
The kimono dress draws from the classic Japanese kimono incorporating a wrap-like line, wide sleeves. And a belt or sash that hugs the waist. It is often adorned with beautiful prints such as floral or geometric patterns. Plus airy fabrics to give it an elegant draping effect. This adaptable design harmonizes both comfort and cultural style thus suitable for different occasions whether informal or formal.
Coat Dress
Coat dress includes designs that integrate both coat and dress structures. A coat dress is characterized by button-down fronts, waist lines, structured collars with long sleeves. As well as other accessories like belts, pockets and pleats. This makes it presentable thus giving an elegant appeal. However, this style can serve as separate outfits or as base layers in layering clothes. For a more refined outfit or one that makes a statement.
Cocoon Dress
A cocoon dress has a rounded structure to which the front and back of its skirt. Gives a deep and bulky shape that narrows down towards the end. Moreover, it is characterized by few seams and an easygoing nature. That presents a contemporary art-like form able to embrace one comfortably.
Apron Dress
An apron dress has a bib-like front and straps that can be adjusted in length. Like aprons; it is usually worn over tops or blouses. The waist is usually fitted and its skirt has a flared outward movement. Making it practical yet playful and inspired by vintage fashion. Such a look works well in introducing some fun and personality to both informal and semi-formal wear.
Toga Dress
A toga dress draws inspiration from ancient Roman clothing. And has characteristics such as being draped and wrapped in style which is mostly held together with girdle or belt. This dress normally leaves one of the shoulders completely bare hence giving it an asymmetrical yet elegant shape. Generally made out of light flowing material for a graceful and classic appearance that stands the test of time.
Balloon Dress
Recognized for its unique bulky outline, a balloon dress comprises a bulged. Rounded shape that tightens at the waist and narrows towards the skirt. The massive bouncy proportions of the dress produce an effect full of fun and theatricality. It pairs well with any look to make it daring and fashionable as it combines playfulness with rigid design.
Panel Dress
A panel gown encompasses several cloth sections stitched together to form a form-fitting, typically angular shape. The pieces can differ in hue, feel or design. Providing an attraction to the eye and a sense of depth in the dress. This style highlights a custom fit while giving it an up-to-date. Clean-cut appearance that is appropriate for work as well as play.
Turtleneck Dress
Turtleneck dress is known for its high, fitted collar which serves to keep you warm while still looking good. It can be tight around the chest or loose depending on the wearer’s preference; usually found in mini or midi length. A woman in this kind of outfit will always remain stylish and warm during cold seasons and it can be worn casually or with evening gowns.
Cold Shoulder Dress
Clothes that cover the upper arms are called cold shoulder dresses. Because they feature cutouts or openings around the shoulders. Thus this design oozes sophistication lined with contemporary charm which makes it more appealing yet balanced. Cold shoulder detail makes it a distinctive sexy feature for both informal and formal outfit styles.
Knit Dress
A stretchy garment crafted from wool that fits onto the shape of the body is known as a knit dress. Which brings about convenience and flexibility. Though usually it may have a figure hugging appearance, some of them are looser or flared. Depending on its design and knitted texture. This type can be used for any occasion ranging from informal wear to formal evening dresses.
