Get all the tips to create a stylish slip dress outfit, plus ways to style it for fall and winter! Find out why this simple dress is the perfect basic to mix and match creating endless outfits.
Learn easy ways to style a slip dress with items you already have in your closet. Even if you’re a modest dresser, there’s a slip dress outfit for you.
Target Dress | Embroidered Cardigan
With its delicate fabric and figure hugging curves, it’s no wonder the 90s lingerie inspired slip dress has been making a comeback!
Don’t assume this slinky dress is only for twenty-something runway models. No matter your age or body type, there’s a slip dress outfit for you!
Too often, we choose a wardrobe item thinking there’s only one way to wear it. This type of thinking leaves us with a closet full of clothes, and feeling like there’s nothing to wear!
While a lightweight slip dress is perfect for warm summer weather, I’m also sharing ways to take it into fall and winter.
If you love styling one item multiple ways, check out my satin blazer post!
Plus, I’m sharing tips and tricks to style the slip dress for almost any occasion. We’ll also cover what to look for in fit and design so you can wear your dress with confidence!
Whether you’re someone whose ready to rock the lingerie look, or looking for a modest way to style it, I’ve got you covered with this simple guide.
Use the drop down Table of Contents menu to navigate this post.
What is a Slip Dress?
A slip dress is a dress designed to look like a slip. Once a staple in women’s lingerie, a slip was worn under skirts and dresses, providing modesty, protection from sweat and oils, smoothing out lines from bras and girdles.
While t-shirt bras and lined dresses have replaced the need for a slip, it’s still inspired an iconic look made popular in the 90s by super model Kate Moss.
How Should it Fit?
Although a slip dress is a fairly simple sheath design, there are some key elements you’ll want to look for when shopping for your most flattering silhouette.
- Figure grazing – neither too tight or too loose, it should lightly graze over your curves, slightly highlighting the waistline.
- Fitted straps – no matter how long or short your hemline is, your straps should meet the neckline right around your armpits.
- Slightly tapered – The most flattering designs have tapering around the bust or waistline, highlighting your curves.
Of course if you like a roomier fit around the middle, by all means rock it! Then head to my shapeless dress post for more loose silhouettes!
How to Style a Slip Dress
Get the most wear out your wardrobe. Here are some fun ways to style your slip dress.
With a Jacket or Cardigan
Not only is a jacket practical for cooler weather, it also adds visual interest. I love the details on this embroidered jacket. It was surprisingly affordable, too!
Target Dress | Embroidered Cardigan
With a Sweater and Sneakers
A slip dress can become your casual weekend outfit paired with a comfy sweater and sneakers. If you’re drawn to feminine styles, but love comfort just as much, this look is right up your alley!
Target Dress | Pink Keds | H&M Sweater (old, similar here)
Go Classic With a Button Up Shirt
Tie your button up shirt over your dress creating the perfect tropical getaway look.
Target Dress | J Crew Shirt | Jewel Badgley Mischka Heels) | See by Chloe Bag
Style Your Slip Dress For Fall
Where I live fall weather can be a mixture of hot and cool. I usually have to decide if I want to freeze in my shorts in the morning, but be cool later in the 95 degree afternoon heat.
For this type of unpredictable fall weather, layering is key. A sweater and knee high boots add warmth, and can easily be swapped out for something lighter.
Target Dress | Michael Kors Sweater (old, similar here) | Leather Bag (similar) | 27 EDIT Knee High Boots
With a Jean Jacket
Pair it with a jean jacket and espadrilles and you’ll have a classic summer look for years to come!
Old Navy Jean Jacket | Target Dress | Jack Rogers Espadrille | Fable England Tote
Wear it as a Slip
Wearing your dress under a maxi or midi skirt works double time as top and slip. Just make sure your hemline is longer than your slip.
Target Dress | WHBM Velvet Skirt (old, similar here) | Loft Block Heels (similar)
With a Blazer and Skirt
Taking the slip concept from above, throw on a blazer and you’ll be office appropriate.
Roll up Blazer Sleeves
A satin blazer turns this simple dress into a stylish look that can be worn for fun late nights.
Target Dress | Express Satin Blazer
With a Belt and Boots
Add a waist belt and knee high boots to give your dress a put together daytime look.
Add a Long Cardigan
A long cozy cardigan is a simple way to wear a slip dress in the fall. Avoid a nightgown and robe look by pairing it with sleek heels.
Target Dress | Long Pink Cardigan | Loft Heels (old, similar here)
Style it for Winter
The secret to taking a slip dress into winter is serious layering. Top your dress with thermals, sweaters, and wool or faux fur coats. Your legs will be warm with thick leggings and over the knee boots.
Target Dress | Boden Faux Fur Jacket | 27 Edit Leather Boots | H&M Sweater | Aerie Leggings
Get more styling tips for winter in my winter colors post!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s great about a slip dress is that it’s so versatile you can wear pretty much any shoes you want!
This entirely depends on the style of your dress, but opt for one that has a smoothing effect under clothes. Lace and jewels will look bumpy. If your slip dress has thicker straps, wear your regular bra. For spaghetti straps go with a strapless bra. If your slip dress is backless use a stick on bra.
You’ll need to consider the type of wedding you’ll be attending. If it’s formal, pair it with a nice blazer, jacket, or shawl. Don’t forget jewelry, accessories, and a nice updo. For a casual wedding, go with wider straps and strappy sandals. And unless you’re the bride, never choose white!
Shop
Find more of my favorite slip dresses!
Red Cowl Back Slip Dress
Express One Shoulder Dress
Target V Neck Dress
Nanette Pink Slip Dress
ASTR The Label Black Floral Dress
Yellow Floral Slip Dress
Reformation Green Floral Dress
Petal & Pup Long Sleeve Dress
Reformation Green Slip Dress
ASTR The Label Ruffle Sleeve Dress
Reformation Blue Floral Dress
Banana Republic One Strap Slip Dress
Topshop Long Lavender Slip Dress
Do you love slip dresses as much as I do? Comment below!