How to Choose the Perfect Shift Dress for Any Occasion

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 21 June 2023 9 min read

Shift dresses are versatile, stylish, and a must-have staple in any wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, making them perfect for any occasion. In this guide, we'll explore the history and key features of shift dresses, how to choose the best materials and fit, and offer styling tips to help you look your best. So let's dive in and learn how to choose the perfect shift dress for any occasion.

Understanding Shift Dresses

In this section, we'll take a closer look at the history and key features of shift dresses, so you can better appreciate their timeless appeal and versatility.

History of Shift Dresses

Shift dresses first gained popularity in the 1960s, during a time of social change and the rise of women's liberation. They were seen as a symbol of freedom and comfort, as they allowed women to break away from the traditional, restrictive clothing of the time. The simple, straight-line silhouette of the shift dress was a stark contrast to the tight-fitting hourglass shapes that dominated fashion in the 1950s. Some notable figures who have famously worn shift dresses include Audrey Hepburn, Twiggy, and even former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy.

Key Features of Shift Dresses

There are a few distinctive characteristics that set shift dresses apart from other dress styles:

Simple silhouette: Shift dresses typically have a straight, column-like shape that loosely skims the body, without any waist definition. This makes them comfortable and easy to wear.
Short length: Most shift dresses fall around the knee or slightly above, making them a great choice for showing off your legs.
Sleeve variety: Shift dresses come in a range of sleeve lengths, including sleeveless, short, and long-sleeved options, so you can choose the style that best suits your preferences and the occasion.
Minimalist design: Shift dresses are known for their clean lines and minimal embellishments, which gives them a timeless, classic look that can be easily dressed up or down with accessories.

With these key features in mind, you'll be better equipped to choose the perfect shift dress for any occasion.

Best Materials for Shift Dresses

When it comes to selecting the perfect shift dress, the material can make all the difference. Different materials are suited for different seasons and occasions, so it's essential to know which fabrics work best for your needs. Let's explore some of the best materials for shift dresses in both summer and winter.

Summer Materials

For warmer months, you'll want to choose a shift dress made from lightweight, breathable materials that will keep you cool and comfortable. Some popular summer fabrics include:

Cotton: A natural, breathable fabric that is perfect for hot weather, cotton shift dresses are comfortable and easy to care for.
Linen: Another natural fabric, linen is known for its exceptional breathability and moisture-wicking properties, making it an excellent choice for summer shift dresses.
Chiffon: This lightweight, sheer fabric drapes beautifully and adds an elegant touch to any shift dress, making it perfect for dressier summer occasions.
Rayon: A versatile, man-made fabric that is soft and breathable, rayon can mimic the look and feel of more expensive fabrics like silk, making it a budget-friendly option for summer shift dresses.

Winter Materials

During colder months, you'll want to opt for a shift dress made from heavier, warmer materials that will keep you cozy without sacrificing style. Some popular winter fabrics for shift dresses include:

Wool: A natural, insulating fabric, wool is perfect for keeping you warm in colder weather. Look for shift dresses made from lightweight wool blends for added comfort.
Velvet: Luxurious and warm, velvet shift dresses are ideal for holiday parties and other formal winter events.
Knit: Stretchy and comfortable, knit shift dresses can be made from a variety of materials, like cotton, wool, or synthetic blends, making them an excellent choice for winter.
Brocade: This rich, textured fabric adds an air of sophistication to any shift dress, making it perfect for more formal winter occasions.

By choosing the right material for your shift dress, you'll be able to stay stylish and comfortable, no matter the season or occasion.

Choosing the Right Fit

Finding the perfect shift dress isn't just about selecting the right material—it's also about ensuring the dress fits your body type and personal style. Here, we'll discuss how to determine your body type, and offer some tailoring tips to help you achieve the perfect fit.

Determining Your Body Type

Understanding your body type is key to finding a flattering shift dress. Here's a quick guide to help you identify your body shape:

Apple: If you have broader shoulders and a fuller waist, with slimmer hips and thighs, you have an apple-shaped body. Look for shift dresses that create balance by accentuating your legs and providing some structure around the waist.
Pear: If your hips are wider than your shoulders and you have a smaller bust, you have a pear-shaped body. Choose shift dresses that draw attention to your upper body while subtly emphasizing your waist.
Hourglass: If your shoulders and hips are roughly the same width, with a well-defined waist, you have an hourglass shape. Opt for shift dresses that accentuate your waist and maintain the balance between your upper and lower body.
Rectangle: If your shoulders, waist, and hips are all relatively similar in width, you have a rectangle-shaped body. Look for shift dresses that create curves by adding volume to the bust and hips, while cinching in the waist.

By understanding your body type, you can choose a shift dress that flatters your figure and makes you feel confident and stylish.

Tailoring Tips

Once you've found a shift dress that suits your body type, consider having it tailored to achieve the perfect fit. Here are some tailoring tips to keep in mind:

Length: Aim for a hemline that hits at the most flattering part of your leg. For most people, this is either just above the knee or just below the knee.
Sleeves: If your shift dress has sleeves, make sure they're not too tight or too loose. Sleeves should end at a flattering point on your arm, such as the wrist or just above the elbow.
Bust and Waist: Ensure there is enough room in the bust and waist to move comfortably, but not so much that the dress looks shapeless. A well-fitted shift dress should gently skim your body without pulling or gaping.
Seams: Check that the seams are straight and aligned with your body, and that there is no puckering or bunching in the fabric.

With a little attention to detail and some expert tailoring, you can achieve the perfect fit for your shift dress, ensuring you look and feel your best at any occasion.

Top Shift Dress Brands

Now that you know how to choose the perfect fit for your shift dress, it's time to explore some popular and reliable brands that offer stylish and high-quality options. The following brands are known for creating beautiful and versatile shift dresses that cater to a variety of styles and body types.

Zara

Zara is a popular fashion brand that offers a wide range of trendy and sophisticated shift dresses. Known for their affordable prices and stylish designs, Zara's shift dresses often feature unique details such as embroidery, lace, or interesting prints. With a variety of options to choose from, you're sure to find a shift dress that suits your personal style and budget.

Ann Taylor

Ann Taylor is a well-established brand that specializes in creating timeless and elegant pieces for women. Their shift dresses are perfect for the workplace or more formal events, as they often feature classic cuts and high-quality materials. If you're looking for a shift dress that is both stylish and sophisticated, Ann Taylor is a great option to consider.

ASOS

ASOS is an online fashion retailer that offers a vast selection of shift dresses from various brands and designers. With a focus on inclusivity, ASOS provides shift dresses in a wide range of sizes, including petite, tall, and plus-size options. By browsing their extensive collection, you're sure to find a shift dress that aligns with your taste and fits your body type perfectly.

These are just a few of the many brands that offer stylish and high-quality shift dresses. By considering your personal style, budget, and body type, you can find the perfect shift dress from one of these brands or explore other options to create a look that is uniquely yours.

Styling Your Shift Dress

Once you've found the perfect shift dress for your body type and occasion, it's time to put the finishing touches on your look. Styling your shift dress with the right accessories and footwear can make all the difference in creating a polished and fashionable outfit. Let's explore some tips for accessorizing and selecting appropriate footwear for your shift dress.

Accessorizing

Accessories can add personality and flair to your shift dress ensemble. Here are a few ideas to help you accessorize your outfit:

Jewelry: Depending on the neckline of your shift dress, you may want to opt for a statement necklace, a delicate pendant, or a stylish pair of earrings. Remember that less is often more when it comes to jewelry, so choose one or two standout pieces.
Belt: Adding a belt to your shift dress can help define your waist and add a touch of style. Choose a slim or wide belt in a complementary color or pattern to accentuate your dress.
Bag: A chic clutch or handbag can be the perfect finishing touch for your shift dress outfit. Choose a bag that complements the color and style of your dress without overwhelming it.

Appropriate Footwear

Choosing the right footwear for your shift dress can enhance your overall look and ensure you're comfortable and confident at any event. Here are some suggestions for selecting the perfect shoes:

Flats: For casual events or daytime outings, a stylish pair of flats can be a great option to pair with your shift dress. Opt for ballet flats, loafers, or sandals, depending on the style of your dress and the occasion.
Heels: For more formal events or a night out, heels can elevate your shift dress and create a polished, sophisticated look. Choose a pair of classic pumps, strappy sandals, or peep-toe heels to complement your dress.
Boots: During colder months, boots can be a stylish and practical option for pairing with your shift dress. Ankle boots or knee-high boots can work well, depending on the length of your dress and your personal style.

With these tips in mind, you can confidently style your shift dress for any occasion, creating a look that showcases your personality and fashion sense.

Shift Dresses for Different Occasions

One of the reasons shift dresses are so popular is their versatility. With the right styling, a shift dress can be dressed up or down for various occasions. Let's take a look at how to wear a shift dress for casual events, the workplace, and formal events.

Casual Events

For casual events, such as a weekend brunch or a day of shopping, you can opt for a more relaxed and laid-back shift dress look. Here are a few tips for styling your shift dress for casual occasions:

Choose a dress made of a comfortable and breathable material, like cotton or linen.
Opt for a fun print or a vibrant color to create a playful and relaxed vibe.
Pair your dress with flats, sandals, or even sneakers for a comfortable and chic look.
Accessorize with a simple necklace, a pair of sunglasses, or a lightweight scarf.

Workplace

Shift dresses can also be an excellent option for the office, as they offer a professional and polished appearance. To style your shift dress for the workplace, consider the following tips:

Select a dress in a neutral color or a subtle pattern that is appropriate for your work environment.
Opt for a dress made of a more structured material, such as polyester or wool blend, to maintain a professional look.
Pair your dress with classic pumps or stylish flats, depending on your office dress code and personal preference.
Accessorize with modest jewelry, such as a pair of stud earrings or a simple bracelet, and a structured handbag or briefcase.

Formal Events

With the right styling, a shift dress can also be a stunning choice for formal events like weddings, cocktail parties, or gala dinners. To create an elegant and sophisticated shift dress look for a formal event, keep these tips in mind:

Choose a dress made of luxurious materials like silk, satin, or lace to elevate your look.
Opt for a dress in a darker color or a refined pattern that exudes elegance.
Select a pair of heels, such as strappy sandals or classic pumps, to complete your outfit.
Accessorize with statement jewelry, like a dazzling necklace or a pair of chandelier earrings, and a chic clutch.

By considering the occasion and following these styling tips, you'll be able to create a fashionable and appropriate shift dress look for any event.

If you're interested in exploring the intersection of fashion and identity, dive into Lou Croff Blake's workshop, 'Queering Fashion: From Dress Codes to Wardrobe Hacks'. This workshop will provide you with a unique perspective on fashion, as well as practical wardrobe hacks that can help you express your authentic self through your personal style.