A shift dress is a simple, semi-fitted design. They are typically sleeveless with a high neckline. They feature bust darts, but otherwise hang loose on the body. They first debuted during the 1960s, when the changing social landscape caused women to seek out more easy fitting fashions. Their stylish, but comfortable design has led them to become a fashion perennial.
Image via …love Meagan
If you are looking for a nice shift dress or two, Kohl’s currently has many fashion forward styles at great prices. Macy’s also pretty styles including petite, plus size and juniors styles. Shift dresses are a huge part of a great everyday look that can be worked in a variety of different ways. Let’s check out five different ways you can wear a shift dress.
Change Up A Shift Dress With A Detachable Collar
A detachable collar can make your shift dress look like a totally new dress instantly. The high neckline of a shift dress is ideal for partnering with a detachable collar. They can come in all sorts of colors, prints and shapes. Peter pan styles are great if you like curves, or you can try a pointed collar style for a more structured look.
If your shift dress is monotone, you could try adding a printed detachable collar such as a polka dot, or a floral pattern. A lace style could lend a feminine hand to your shift dress. Or why not try a classic white style.
In Cooler Weather, Layer Up
Shift dresses can work just as well during winter as they do in summer, as their semi-fitted design is ideal for layering. Try a turtleneck and a pair of opaque tights for a classic, elegant look. Another nice combination you can try out is a long-sleeved collared shirt and a pair of textured tights. Vary up your stocking styles with sexy fishnets, pretty lace, and diamond prints.
Combine A Shift Dress With A Statement Necklace
Statement necklaces have become a really popular accessory as of late. They create a nice focal point on a simple dress. Once again, the high collar style of a shift dress makes it an ideal partner for a statement necklace. Try styles that feature multiple rows of stones or beads, chunky metal styles, or for a modern look, try a collar style necklace. You will find collar style necklaces that are embellished with pearls, beads or sequins that can add pretty details to your outfit.
Define Your Waist With A Belt
A shift dress isn’t fitted through the waist, so a belt can prove very useful at defining the waist when wearing this style. This is especially the case, if you have an hourglass figure, or a tiny waist that would benefit from being highlighted. For those with a rounded stomach, a shift dress can prove the ultimate disguise. In this case try a belt worn just below the bust, rather than at the natural waist. Some classic combinations include a red belt over a black shift dress, a leopard print belt on a red shift dress, or a tan belt on a white shift dress. Elastic belt styles are a good option for a closer fit.
Turn Your Shift Dress Into A Skirt
A shift dress can be made to look like a skirt if you cover the top half with a button up blouse, or jacket. The more ways you can wear each piece in your wardrobe the fewer things you require to pull off different looks. Feature blouses with frills, or ruffles can take your shift dress from mod to girly. A shift dress is a nice piece to travel with, because you can create three looks with just two pieces. Wear it alone, wear a blouse layered under it, or a blouse buttoned over the top.
These five versatile looks demonstrate just how much wardrobe mileage you can get out of one shift dress. If you have yet to purchase a shift dress and go the distance, consider choosing a solid color style in black, beige, or white to start out. Once you’ve purchased your shift dress, try pairing it with other pieces you own. You’ll likely find no end of ways to wear it and extend your wardrobe.
