Types of clothing
Types of dresses
Wrap, shift, slip or shirt dress? The main dress styles, what makes each one different, and when to wear it.
By Style Finder · Updated 26 October 2026
Types of dresses
AI illustrationWrap dress
Wraps across the body and ties at the waist, with a V-neck.
For work, dinners and weddings; flattering on most shapes.
AI illustrationShift dress
A straight, simple dress that falls from the shoulders without a waist.
Smart for work with a blazer, or with trainers at weekends.
AI illustrationSlip dress
A light, bias-cut dress with thin straps, often in satin.
Dressed up for evenings or layered over a T-shirt.
AI illustrationShirt dress
A dress cut like a long shirt, with a collar and buttons.
An easy smart-casual dress with a belt.
AI illustrationA-line dress
Fitted at the top and widening gently to the hem, like a letter A.
A versatile shape for day and evening.
AI illustrationBodycon dress
A close-fitting, stretchy dress that follows the body.
For evenings and parties.
AI illustrationMaxi dress
A dress that reaches the ankle or the floor.
Flowing for summer or formal for evening.
AI illustrationTea dress
A knee-length or midi dress, often floral, with short sleeves and a fitted waist.
Summer days, garden parties and weddings.
Questions
Keep reading

Types of clothing
Types of necklines
Crew, V-neck, boat, square or halter? The main necklines on tops and dresses, and what each one does.

Types of clothing
Types of bags
Tote, crossbody, shoulder bag or clutch? The main types of bags, what makes each one different, and when to carry it.

Clothing identifier
Scan any outfit. Find every piece.
Style Finder is a clothing scanner for your phone. Point the camera at an outfit and it identifies each piece, then finds possible matches in shops with prices in your currency.