Style Finder

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

  • Wrap dressAI illustration

    Wrap dress

    Wraps across the body and ties at the waist, with a V-neck.

    For work, dinners and weddings; flattering on most shapes.

  • Shift dressAI illustration

    Shift dress

    A straight, simple dress that falls from the shoulders without a waist.

    Smart for work with a blazer, or with trainers at weekends.

  • Slip dressAI illustration

    Slip dress

    A light, bias-cut dress with thin straps, often in satin.

    Dressed up for evenings or layered over a T-shirt.

  • Shirt dressAI illustration

    Shirt dress

    A dress cut like a long shirt, with a collar and buttons.

    An easy smart-casual dress with a belt.

  • A-line dressAI illustration

    A-line dress

    Fitted at the top and widening gently to the hem, like a letter A.

    A versatile shape for day and evening.

  • Bodycon dressAI illustration

    Bodycon dress

    A close-fitting, stretchy dress that follows the body.

    For evenings and parties.

  • Maxi dressAI illustration

    Maxi dress

    A dress that reaches the ankle or the floor.

    Flowing for summer or formal for evening.

  • Tea dressAI illustration

    Tea dress

    A knee-length or midi dress, often floral, with short sleeves and a fitted waist.

    Summer days, garden parties and weddings.

Questions

Wrap and A-line dresses are often recommended because they define the waist and skim the hips.

A midi falls between the knee and the ankle; a maxi reaches the ankle or the floor.

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