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November 2024
We all know that nothing beats the feeling of slipping into the “perfect” dress—one that’s got the right vibe for the occasion and makes you look absolutely fabulous. Dresses are the ultimate go-to for any wardrobe due to their versatility and stylishness. Brunch or bash, there’s a dress for every vibe, every season, and every mood. But with so many styles out there, picking the right dress for the occasion can feel like a never-ending scroll. How do you know which dress is perfect for a casual hangout or which one will keep you looking cute while battling the summer heat?
Don’t worry—we’ve got your back! In this blog, we’re breaking down all the must-have dress styles and where you should wear them. We’ve got a lowdown of all the dress types you need to know.
Buckle up, ‘cause we’re about to take a trip through the fascinating world of dresses, exploring every nook and cranny from casual cool to red-carpet ready. So, let’s get the party started!
Before we jump into the nitty-gritty, let's take a moment to appreciate the awesomeness of dresses. These one-piece wonders are the ultimate lazy girl hack—slip one on, and boom! You're dressed. No need to agonise over matching tops and bottoms.
From the laid-back T-shirt dress to the bold and sassy bodycon, we’re about to dive deep into women’s dress types, all ready for you to rock.
You roll out of bed, throw on a comfy tee, and bam! You're dressed. That's what the T-shirt dress feels like. It's like wearing your favourite oversized tee, but make it fashionable. Perfect for those “I can't even" days when you still want to look like you've got your life together.
Style Tips: Pair with sneakers for a sporty look, or dress it up with ankle boots and a statement necklace.
Best for: Casual outings, weekend brunches, or those mornings when you hit the snooze button one too many times.
Seasonality: A summer staple, but can be layered with leggings and a cardigan for cooler months.
When you are feeling like showing off your legs and ready to turn heads, the mini dress is your go-to gal. It's sassy, it's flirty, and it's short, sweet, and ready to party. It’s ideal for warm days or nights when you want to feel bold.
Style Tips: Balance the short length with a higher neckline or longer sleeves. Add some killer heels to make your legs look miles long.
Best for: Parties, club nights, or any time you want to channel your inner '60s icon.
Seasonality: Perfect for summer, but can be winterised with tights and a cute jacket.
Not too long, not too short—the midi dress is just right. It's that perfect dress for the responsible adult who is secretly a fashion icon. Wear it to the office, then jazz it up for after-work drinks. Versatility? Check!
Style Tips: Cinch it at the waist with a belt to create an hourglass silhouette. Pair with heels to elongate your legs, or go for comfort with cute flats.
Best for: Office wear, casual evenings, or when you want to look put-together without trying too hard.
Seasonality: A year-round staple. Layer with a turtleneck in winter or wear it solo in summer.
The boho-style dress is a call for all the free spirits! Flowy, patterned, and effortlessly cool, it's perfect for twirling at music festivals or looking artsy at your local market. All set to channel your inner bohemian goddess?
Style Tips: Load up on accessories—think layered necklaces, stacked bracelets, and a floppy hat. Finish with some strappy sandals or ankle boots.
Best for: Music festivals, beach vacations, or pretending you're in a '70s rock band.
Seasonality: Summer and fall favourite, but can be layered for spring.
Wanting to unleash your wild side? Animal print dresses are for those days when you're feeling fierce and want the world to know it. Leopard, zebra, or snake—pick your spirit animal and work it!
Style Tips: Let the print be the star—keep accessories simple and opt for solid-coloured shoes.
Best for: Making a statement at any event, from grocery shopping to gala dinners.
Seasonality: These wild prints know no season—rock them year-round!
Want to look like you've made an effort without actually making an effort? Maxi dress is on duty to save you—the lazy girl’s secret weapon. It's basically a stylish blanket you can wear in public while swishing around feeling like a diva.
Style Tips: Add a wide belt to define your waist. For petite girls, choose a style with a side slit to avoid drowning in fabric.
Best for: Beach days, summer weddings, or pretending you're on a tropical vacation.
Seasonality: Summer queen, but can be layered with a jacket and boots for cooler months.
For when you want to look put-together but can't be bothered with separates, the shirt dress has your back. It's like your favourite button-up went to a tailor and came back as a dress. Effortlessly chic for work or play!
Style Tips: Roll up the sleeves for a casual vibe. Play with proportions by belting it loosely or tying the front for a crop top effect.
Best for: Office days, casual Fridays, or impressing your partner's parents.
Seasonality: A true all-season player. Layer with tights and a sweater in winter, or wear it open over a tank top and shorts in summer.
Feeling luxe? Slip into a jacquard dress and instantly transform into royalty. With its rich textures and patterns, you'll be serving “old money" vibes. These dresses bring sophistication and are perfect for when you want to make an elegant statement.
Style Tips: Keep accessories minimal to let the fabric shine. A simple clutch and elegant heels are all you need.
Best for: Formal events, winter weddings, or when you want to feel like you're in a period drama.
Seasonality: Best for fall and winter due to the heavier fabric, but who says you can't rock it year-round?
A smash hit amongst the texture-obsessed, crinkle dress is something like your dream come true. Plus, wrinkles are part of the look—it's practically maintenance-free!
Style Tips: Let the texture do the talking—keep accessories simple. A pair of statement earrings and some strappy sandals are all you need.
Best for: Beach parties, summer vacations, or any time you want to add some visual interest to your outfit.
Seasonality: Perfect for spring and summer, but can be layered for year-round wear.
The cami dress is like the multitasker of your wardrobe. Wear it solo for those scorching summer days, or layer it up when the weather gets chilly. It's so versatile that it deserves its own showroom.
Style Tips: Layer a t-shirt or turtleneck underneath for a '90s vibe. Throw a chunky sweater on top for a skirt effect.
Best for: Hot summer days, layering experiments, or bringing out your inner queen.
Seasonality: Summer essential, but can be adapted for any season with clever layering.
A long-sleeve dress is perfect for those in-between weather days when you want a little extra coverage without sacrificing style. It’s versatile, practical, and can be easily dressed up or down. Cosy, stylish, and indeed, a lifesaver for the eternally cold ones.
Style Tips: Play with proportions—try a billowy sleeve with a fitted bodice, or vice versa. Add some statement cuffs or buttons for extra flair.
Best for: Autumn and winter days, office wear, or any time you want to feel cosy and chic.
Seasonality: Autumn and winter staple, but lightweight versions work for spring and summer too.
For when you're feeling yourself and want the world to know it, slip into a bodycon dress. Just remember to wear your confidence like an accessory—it's the best thing you can pair with this style! Give your curves the hug they deserve in a bodycon dress.
Style Tips: Confidence is key! Shapewear can help smooth things out if you're feeling self-conscious. Add a structured jacket for a touch of contrast.
Best for: Date nights, club outings, or any time you want to show off your fabulous figure.
Seasonality: Suitable for all seasons with the right accessories and layering.
When you want to feel like you're still in bed but have to face the world, the jumper/sweater dress is your bestie. It's like wearing a blanket in the most socially acceptable manner. Perfect for those “I'd rather be napping" days.
Style Tips: Belt it to define your waist, or leave it loose for maximum cosiness. Pair with over-the-knee boots for a chic winter look.
Best for: Chilly days, cosy nights in, or anytime you need a fashion hug.
Seasonality: Winter essential, but lighter versions work for fall and spring.
Want to feel like you're in a retro music video? The flare dress has got you covered. Twirl, spin, and groove your way through life—this dress was made for dancing, and that's just what you'll do!
Style Tips: Go full disco with platform shoes and retro hair, or keep it modern with sleek accessories.
Best for: Weddings, parties, or any time you want to bring out your inner dancing queen.
Seasonality: Perfect for spring and summer, but can work year-round in the right fabric.
For when you want to be a little flirty but keep it classy, the off-shoulder dress is your secret weapon. Perfect for showing those structured shoulders in the most sophisticated yet fun way.
Style Tips: Skip the necklace and focus on statement earrings or bracelets. A strapless bra or dress tape can help keep everything in place.
Best for: Summer parties, date nights, or any time you want to feel a little flirty.
Seasonality: Summer stands out, but can be adapted for cooler months with the addition of a cardigan or jacket.
There you have it, queens—your fabulously detailed guide to the wonderful world of dresses! Remember, the best dress is the one that makes you feel like a million bucks. So go ahead, experiment, and find the styles that make you feel nothing less than gorgeous—like you own the ramp walk of life!
And hey, if you're ready to update your dress game, why not check out Matalan's collection? They've got more dresses than you can shake a stick at, with styles to suit every mood, occasion, and dance move. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and dress to impress—or just to nap comfortably. We don't judge! Explore our vast collection and get ready to add some serious flair to your wardrobe.
Now, my ladies, go forth and conquer the world in that fabulous dress!