Dresses, like their sartorial sister the jumpsuit, are always the ultimate throw it on and go item. They’re a one-piece solution to looking great. When you’re wearing a dress, all you need to complete the outfit is shoes and a bag (and how much are you using either of those accessories right now? )
Basically, slip into a dress and you’redone.
We are all for making our days run just that little bit more smoothly, even when all we have planned is rolling out of bed to our desk on the sofa, and a walk to the corner shop for milk (actually, wine. )
So, when it comes to planning an outfit, we know that slipping into a tracksuit day after day does make choosing an outfit every morning far easier than, you know, styling yourself. But a dress is just as simple a option! And one that will make your look (even if that *lewk* is only going to be seen from the waist up on Zoom) far more polished and put together than stretch separates ever will.
If you’re thinking of making an investment in a designer version this year – perhaps treating yourself, using all the money you saved on takeaway cappuccinos or commuting – then you need to make sure whatever you purchase is a forever piece that will work in your wardrobe for years to come. It’s always important to buy less, choose well and make it last, especially during a period of financial uncertainty (thanks for that, COVID. )
So with clever buys always at the forefront of our minds, we present the definitive list of designer dress styles you could think about adding to your wardrobe…
Starting with the most casual part of your closet, a slip-it-on t-shirt dress (this Gucci one is a fave) will work for every occasion. Just switch up the accessories from trainers and a backpack to strappy heels and a clutch. When you see how versatile a denim dress is, you’ll be hooked too. A dark shade (like Vika 2. 0’s) makes it work for more formal needs but roll the sleeves for a weekend look. (Vegan) leather also works far harder than you might expect.
This Nanushka dress is excellent in the evening, obviously, but layer it with a polo-neck, check shacket and chunky sole boots for daytime walks. If you’re staying In-In, this season’s snuggly sweater dress our fave from Stella McCartney) is ideal for WFH then cosying up with Netflix too.
The LBD is obviously an icon that holds together every wardrobe but choose something that works for your own style to ensure maximum wear. If you fancy an on-trend Nineties look this Rick Owens mini-dress is supermodel worthy. The satin slip dress (this one is from Vince) has also become a legend after dark but again works for every occasion. During daytime team it with soft layers – at night choose sheeny bare skin.
If you’re searching for something more statement, super-size collars – like Ganni’s gingham dress – are still huge (in both senses of the word) while the smaller neckline detail on this Miu Miu Sixties’ shift is an excellent way to jazz up a simple ‘fit. Don’t go too seasonal if you’re looking for a print or it could date quickly. Check dresses are a perma-trend and if you’re into florals choose from Isabel Marant Etoile’s elegant midi or Rixo’s sweet mini options.
Alternatively a striped shirt dress will offer you maximum opportunities for adding accessories that reflect your personality.
And that’s the thing about dresses, they can be whatever you want them to be – with the addition of a few extras. Although, if you want to wear yours with bare feet, that’s totally fine by us too.
