Best Dresses That Every Girl Should Have (2021 Edition)

5 Different Types Of Dresses Every Woman Should Have In The Closet

Beauty, feminity, and sensuality. When it comes to stunning dresses, the list of must-haves in a woman’s closet is very long. While we might have ten pairs of jeans, we know how much more we cherish that one special dress!

Whether you have to attend a wedding ceremony or rock someone off their feet on a first date, you know a dress will get the job done.

The best part is that you do not have to be a Hollywood celebrity on a Met Gala red carpet to own a dress. All you need is a few dresses that will be able to complete your wardrobe and be perfect for events when you so require them.

In this article, we look at the five different types of dresses every woman should have in their wardrobe. Additionally, we also shed light on some important things that need to be considered when you are shopping for a dress.

List of 5 Different Types of Dresses every woman should have in their closet

1. The Little Black Dress (LBD)-

Whether it is attending cocktail parties or a formal dinner, there is something about an LBD that oozes class. You can say that it is the perfect mix of beauty and sensuality.

You will get heads turning, but not in a way that is going to make your better-half uncomfortable. An LBD is a must-have dress for every woman. The black color makes it perfect to hide physical flaws that you are conscious about.

You can simply pair the LBD with a niche pair of pumps or heels, a small clutch bag, and a pair of diamond studs. Voila, you are good to go!

2. The Maxi Dress-

Whether it is in the long flowy form or the body-hugging one, maxi dresses are making a strong comeback in recent years.

If you are going for a smart, relaxed and casual look, you can opt for a maxi dress with flowy prints and designs. On the other hand, if you want all eyes on you, then you need to head over to Shop Style Shark and check their excellent collection of slit maxi dresses.

A maxi dress can be a very convenient option, especially for those nice Sunday brunches or beach-side vacations. They are elegant, sensual, sophisticated and come in a variety of shapes, colors, and forms.

3. The Shirt Dress-

Let us face it, every time we have been confused about which dress to wear, the shirt dress has come to our rescue.

Ever since its inception, the shirt dress has been a staple fit for women looking at something fashionable and stylish. It also provides great opportunities for using accessories like belts, bands, and more.

No matter whether you are heading out for a casual shopping experience or heading over to a fancy restaurant for some lunch, a shirt dress can never go wrong. Bright colors, warm prints, and an easy-going personality are hallmarks of shirt dresses.

4. The Sheath Dress-

Have a professional engagement where you want to look smart and feminine? Ditch the boring pant-suits and opt for a sheath dress.

For a very long time, a sheath dress has been the preferred option for professional women looking to make a statement at the workplace. They are formal, clean, and very sophisticated.

While some women prefer monotone colors on them, others are willing to experiment with two-tone or even monochromatic ones. A sheath dress is cut straight and then nipped at the point around the waistlines. Go for ones that end just on the knees.

5. The Over-The-Top Formal Gown-

The OTT formal gown or the Cinderella gown as most like to out it gives your closet that oomph factor.

You might not be using it for day-to-day engagements, but you know you have it. The formal gown is at home at fancy black-tie events where you know your favorite LBD will not make it.

Frills, bold prints, and layered gowns should always occupy a place of pride in a woman’s closet. Experts recommend going for cuts that will help you appear taller. If you want your formal gown to stay evergreen, ensure that you go for solid bold colors that are classy and always in vogue.

Things that need to be considered when shopping for a dress: Stylists Talk

In this section, we are going to look at some important factors that should be considered when shopping for a dress-

The first and probably the most important thing that needs to be considered is quality.

This means that you should be looking at the quality of the fit and finish, the type of materials used, and so on. Since dresses are not bought every day, ensure that you are buying nothing but the best in terms of quality.

Secondly, you need to go for colors that will always be fashionable. This means avoiding trending or seasonal colors. Going for bold and solid colors means that you will be able to wear the dress over multiple seasons. Blacks, whites, blues, and reds are the safe options as far as dresses go.

Thirdly, the dress should complement your body structure and type. Some dresses might look good on specific body types but not all. Hence, it is important that you understand what kind of cut will suit you and then proceed to buy it. If you require alterations, make sure they are done by an expert.

Fourthly, costs need to be taken into consideration when buying a dress. While you do not want to break the bank in buying a dress, you should also venture away from buying something cheap. Investing money in buying a dress is a good idea, as it will always be something you will cherish for a long time.

Lastly, the quality, design, style, and pricing of the dress depend a lot on the brand you are buying from. In recent years, credible fashion platforms like Shop Style Shark have emerged that offer exceptional designs, cuts, and styles, while being very affordable. You should always research the brand and check out the reviews before buying a dress.

The Bottom Line

Buying a beautiful dress is as much about luck as it is about putting the work and effort in. no matter what kind of an occasion you have to go to; you can never go wrong with a dress.

As the saying goes, ‘a woman should always dress to be remembered, not simply to be noticed.’

If you have any other questions, on how to pick the right dress, let us know in the comments below. We will be happy to provide an answer to all the queries that you might have.

Wardrobe basics: 15 items of clothing every woman should own

The secret to good style every single day.

Whether you’re one for investing in the latest summer fashion trends (opens in new tab) or prefer timeless outfits built from classic pieces, there are a few wardrobe basics that form the building blocks of good - and durable - style. These interchangeable garments are the answer to making getting dressed each morning a hassle-free experience.

From the perfect white t-shirt to a fail-safe blazer, I'm talking about the staples that last from season to season. The kinds of pieces that’ll go with almost anything in your wardrobe, and compliment every trend-led piece you decided to splash the cash on.

If you’ve always dreamed of being able to get ready in mere minutes, or wish those ‘nothing to wear’ days were a thing of the past, here’s what you need to own ASAP.

Wardrobe Basics: The perfect white t-shirt

Whether you’re teaming it with jeans, suit trousers or layering it under a slip dress or cami top, the perfect white t-shirt is the gift that keeps on giving.

(opens in new tab) WOMEN SLUB JERSEY CREW NECK CROPPED SHORT SLEEVED T-SHIRT - £12.90 at Uniqlo (opens in new tab)

Invest in a thick fabric that'll survive many wears and washes.

Wardrobe Basics: A longline blazer

Whether you go for classic black or heritage-inspired checks, a longline blazer will see you through every season. Throw it on over work separates and dresses during the day, then pair with jeans or smart leggings and heels come evening.

(opens in new tab) FRANKIE SHOP Gelso oversized TENCEL Lyocell-blend blazer - £324.63 at Net-A-Porter (opens in new tab)

The Frankie Shop is my go-to when it comes to blazers, and I particularly love this oversized style.

Wardrobe Basics: Straight leg jeans

While skinny or straight-leg jeans are perhaps the most versatile denim investments, the most important factor here is the fit. Find a pair that are comfortable and flattering so you can dress them up or down for years to come. For more options, shop our best jeans (opens in new tab) edit here.

(opens in new tab) Utility High Waisted Straight Leg Jeans - £29.50 at M&S (opens in new tab)

These jeans are cut with a straight leg and high waist for a flattering fit and feature added stretch for all-day comfort. They come in different lengths so you can find the perfect fit for you.

Wardrobe Basics: White trainers

A pair of plain white fashion trainers can come to the rescue on those days when you just can’t face heels or boots. Perfect for teaming with dresses or jeans and a t-shirt on the weekend, but equally great for adding a modern touch to office suiting. For more styles, shop my edit of the best trainers and sustainable trainers here.

(opens in new tab) VEJA Women's V-10 logo-embroidered leather trainers - £130 at Selfridges (opens in new tab)

Veja's sustainable trainers are popular with the likes of Meghan Markle for their classic and ethical appeal.

Wardrobe Basics: A cashmere jumper

Cashmere is the most versatile of knitwear, making it an investment worth every penny. Team it with work trousers, skirts and blazers, or use it to smarten up weekend denim. A grey cashmere sweater is always elegant.

(opens in new tab) Cashmere Jumper - £150 at ARKET (opens in new tab)

A blend of recycled cashmere and RWS certified wool, gives a luxuriously soft feel to this knitted jumper.

Wardrobe Basics: Neutral flat shoes

Black, nude, navy and metallics all make for great investment shades when it comes to wear-anywhere flat shoes. Whether you prefer ballet flats, loafers or mules, look for styles that offer comfort and versatility.

(opens in new tab) TOD'S Kate embellished suede loafers - £490 at Net-A-Porter (opens in new tab)

Tod's 'Kate' loafers have been artisanally crafted in Italy from tactile suede. This pair is topped with an oversized gold chain across the toe and set on a slight heel.

Wardrobe Basics: A simple white shirt

Once again, the fit is the most important thing here. Look for a crisp, loose-fit white shirt that flatters and skims your figure, without bulging at the buttons. Incredible teamed with denim jeans and a blazer, this is one hero piece that’ll work for both work and play.

(opens in new tab) RELAXED-FIT WIDE-SLEEVE SHIRT - £69 at COS (opens in new tab)

COS is amazing for wardrobe basics, and this relaxed shirt is no exception. Go a size up for that premium look.

Wardrobe Basics: A midi dress

A modern classic, the midi dress is a hardworking garment in all seasons. Opted for a knitted style in winter and swap for lighter fabrics such as silk and linen for summer. Shirt dress styles and wrap dresses are always flattering.

(opens in new tab) Nimes Navy and White Gingham Frill Detail Dress - £299 at L (opens in new tab).K.Bennett (opens in new tab)

Crafted from a navy blue and white gingham check cotton-rich fabric, it's a V-neck style with a frill collar, a nipped waist, tie belt, side pockets and a flared midi-length skirt.

Wardrobe Basics: Black heels

The saviour of all evening outfits, a pair of comfortable black heels will become your best friend. Court shoes or heeled pumps are the ultimate in where-anywhere footwear, while black strappy sandals will finish any night out ensemble.

(opens in new tab) Dune Magnet Leather Heeled Sandals - £90 at John Lewis (opens in new tab)

This pair of heeled sandals from Dune is crafted from leather for comfort and longevity of wear.

Wardrobe Basics: A classic trench coat

A between-season staple and, let’s be honest, a great rainy day option throughout the British summer too, a classic trench coat fills all manner of wardrobe gaps. Belt it over workwear for office chic, or wear it open over a knit and denim jeans come the weekend.

(opens in new tab) Cotton trench coat - £59.99 at H&M (opens in new tab)

I usually go a size up when I buy a trench coat, as it makes it look chicer and more expensive.

Wardrobe Basics: A leather handbag

The perfect finisher for all occasions, a good quality leather handbag (it doesn’t have to be designer) adds polish while remaining super practical. Look for handbags with detachable crossbody straps to score two bag styles in one. If you fancy a splurge, check out my best designer handbags gallery here.

(opens in new tab) Gucci GG Marmont Matelassé Leather Super Mini Bag - £875 at Gucci (opens in new tab)

Gucci’s black matelassé leather cross-body bag is hallmarked with antiqued gold GG-Marmont hardware, referencing the iconic hotel on Los Angeles’ Sunset Boulevard.

Wardrobe Basics: Breton stripes

Another classic, you can’t go wrong with Breton stripes. Whether you opt for classic navy blue or red, keep to simple shapes like a long-sleeved crew neck to make sure your stripes remain timeless.

(opens in new tab) Ripley Recycled Cotton Breton Top - £65 at Baukjen (opens in new tab)

The Ripley top is proudly made from a blend of recycled and organic cotton. Its heavyweight composition makes for the sort of authentic Breton tops you’d find across the Channel.

Wardrobe Basics: A leather jacket

Whether you’re throwing it on over a pretty dress or teaming it with jeans or leggings, a soft leather biker jacket is a timeless piece you’ll wear for years. Opting for one size up from your normal fit will give extra room for layering over knitwear when it’s chilly.

(opens in new tab) BILLIE OVERSIZED LEATHER BIKER JACKET - £399 at AllSaints (opens in new tab)

Crafted from smooth leather, the Billie been heavily washed and tumbled for a high-low effect. AllSaints is known for its biker jackets, and if this one isn't your style, it has plenty more for you to choose from.

Wardrobe Basics: A black slip dress

The slip has dress returned from the 90s archives and made itself a modern mainstay. Layer it with blouses, t-shirts or knits, and opt for a knee-skimming or midi length so you can wear it with trainers and sandals in the summer, then tights and boots come winter.

(opens in new tab) RAEY Square-neck cotton-blend jersey slip dress - £95 at MatchesFashion (opens in new tab)

Raey’s black jersey slip dress is made from a blend of cotton and cashmere, elevating the staple silhouette with the label’s dedication to indulgent materials. It’s cut to a slim fit that suspends from slender shoulder straps into a square neckline.

Wardrobe Basics: Ankle boots

A good pair of ankle boots is a must. I’d suggest investing in a flat or mid-height heel so that you can dress them up or down. Perfect for wearing with dresses, leggings or jeans, classic black will always be a staple, though tan is a great option too. Shop my edit of the best ankle boots here.

Best Dresses That Every Girl Should Have (2021 Edition)

There are almost countless styles when it comes to dresses. Therefore, a girl could own countless dresses but still feel like they’re missing something. However, despite our thirst for new dresses every time we read a new fashion magazine, there are some dresses that every girl should have at least one in their closet.

Let’s take a look at these dresses and see what they’re like. Their charm will make you understand why they are a must-have of many girls. If you’re wondering what your closet is missing, then check if you’ve skipped one of these.

The Little Black Dress – The Ultimate Must-Have Dresses.

A little black dress, or LDB for short, is a must-have in any girl’s closet. It’s a fact. Every girl owns one of these, if not more than one. It was invented by Coco Chanel and has become the favorite of women around the world. It’s versatile, classy, and charming. It can be the outfit for your dinner dates, your office meetings, to your nights out at the club. You can wear it to pretty much any occasion.

The best thing about LBD is that it takes next to no effort to style. Depending on your taste and preference, you can pick one or more in varying lengths, silhouettes, and fabrics.

A Maxi Dress – Dresses For The Summer.

Don’t let anybody tell you that long dresses are strictly meant for tall women. If you’re missing on these long flowy maxi dresses just because of your height, then it’s really a shame. Floor-length dresses look amazing on everyone. Petite women should choose cut-out or gradient maxi dresses, while plus-sized women should stick to straight-cut gowns with a noticeable waistline.

The simple maxi dress can be one of the most useful pieces in a wardrobe. It looks great, and it’s super comfortable. If you have a whole lot of errands to run and need something that looks pretty but won’t make you feel uncomfortable. From breakfast meetings to movie dates, you’ll fall back on it time and time again.

A Shirt Dress – Simple Dresses.

Created by Coco Chanel with the ideas behind transforming an ordinary men’s shirt into a sophisticated feminine piece of women’s clothing, the shirt dress is a bold dress that can boost your confidence. It’s casual, easy, and can be worn both as a day outfit or in the evening. The best thing about it is that it can be both the work outfit that you wear to go to your work as well as your weekend look when paired with skinny jeans.

Whether for work or the weekend, you won’t feel overdressed if you wear it to a weekend lunch or underdressed if you wear it to a business meeting. It might not be an over-the-top glamorous look, but it certainly up your outfit game better than your everyday basics that has become a perennial fashion staple.

A Work Dress – Dresses For The Job.

Every woman should own a formal dress that they can confidently wear to their work office or their business meetings. It’s a great investment as a polished work dress will make you feel prepared for everything from interviews, impromptu meetings to a big presentation at work.

You should go for something simple and plain rather than something that is heavy in the pattern or too vibrantly. Choose a piece that’s easy to pair up with a jacket and match with your accessories, as well as your footwear of choice. Then, don’t forget to ensure a matching color coordination!

A Cocktail Dress – Party Dresses.

It’s the weekend, it’s time for your girls’ night out. You want something that is stylish and sexy to hit the club, and the cocktail dress is the perfect choice for that. It can look just as gorgeous as a floor-length evening gown, but minus the fear of tripping over your skirt and embarrassing yourself. This is certainly the more practical choice for a night in the club.

This dress doesn’t limit or block your movements when you dance. You can go out and live your best life while looking like a queen. What more do you need?

If you’ve got all the dresses in the list above on your closet, then good for you. These are the basic dresses that every girl should have at least one in their closet, as they are used on different occasions and they will make you look great on each occasion if picked correctly. Having all of these will make sure that you won’t have to experience the “I really don’t have anything to wear” situation.

Want more on the styling tips? Check out our post on the Best Ways To Wear A Skirt: Skirt Tricks Of The 2021 and 5 Cool Ways To Wear Your Jeans: A 2021 Guide. These posts will show you how you can better your style and up your outfit game. And when you’ve picked your best dress, why not have the best hairstyle too? You can check out our amazing ombre, wavy, or raw bulk hair extensions for quick help in hairstyling. For even more fun ways to style your hair and other hair-related topics, you can go here. You won’t be disappointed.