5 Dress Types That Suit Women of All Ages

5 Dress Types That Suit Women of All Ages

While there is no one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to dressing, there are certain types of clothing that flatter various different body types. When it comes to finding a versatile dress for a variety of casual, dressy, formal, business-casual, and eveningwear occasions—many women like to purchase a classically flattering style and dress their outfit up or down with shoes, handbags, and jewelry to suit the occasion. Here are five universally flattering dresses for any body type and any age:

1. Shift dress
The shift dress is a straight design that falls in a column of fabric straight from the shoulders. Offered in sleeveless and with a popular three-quarter sleeve option, the shift dress has darts strategically placed around the bust for a tapered look. The shift dress typically features a high scoop or boat neck. A popular office wear for business casual dress, the shift can be dressed up or down with the right shoes, and made more business appropriate with a blazer or cardigan. It can also be glammed up for date night or a club with heels and a sparkly belt.

2. The little black dress
The little black dress, or LBD, is one of the most versatile pieces and can be worn to suit almost every occasion– a wedding, date, or a cocktail party. Wear your LBD with heels and statement jewelry to a holiday party, or wear it with flats, like Audry Hepburn, to run errands or go to the office. This classic style is one that every woman should have in her wardrobe.

3. Maxi dress
Another dress appropriate for most body types, short or tall, is the maxi dress, which falls to the ankles. Typically, the maxi dress offers a loose-fitting, flowing, goddess like appearance. And because it’s long, the shoes you wear can be comfortable sandals, flats or sneakers. The maxi style has become popular and can be worn day to night with slight modifications on shoes and accessories. The casual day wear version can be worn to the beach or to run errands with sneakers or flat sandals for a more relaxed look. For evening wear, pair your maxi with open toed heels and bohemian accessories.

4. A-line dress
The A-line dress is available in various lengths, with the most popular being knee length (or what’s known as a skater dress). The A-line style hugs your torso and synches at the waist to create a long, lean appearance. In addition to hugging your figure, this dress is also easy to wear. It can be paired with heels or flats, depending on the occasion or your comfort level.

The A-line style is feminine while letting the wearer show off their legs and keeping them cool in the summer heat. Shopstyle co UK is a great online source for A-line or skater dresses in various fashion colors and patterns.

5. Wrap dress
With styles ranging from colorful patterns to plain black, the wrap dress has remained popular through the years because it looks good on pretty much any body type. This style is a single panel dress with a front closure, or tie, which wraps from one side of the body across the other, and ties at the side waist or back. The wrap style forms a flattering V-shaped neckline that accentuates the bust and hugs the wearer’s curves, but can be tied at the wearer’s comfort.

If you’re seeking a versatile dress that can be worn to suit a number of occasions—summer wedding, office, errands, or brunch—look to online stores like Amazon, Target, Walmart, or get a Columbia coupon code to get a discount on your next perfect dress purchase!