Slip Dresses: 12 Chic Options To Incorporate In Your Forever Wardrobe – Fashion Trends & Style Advice

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There are a few wardrobe pieces that hold a heightened level of power in their seams. Putting on one of these items will make you feel like the most confident version of yourself—ready to take on the day, a date, or whatever else gets thrown your way. For most of the year, I feel like my best self in an oversized blazer, the “jack of all trades” item in my closet. But when we’re talking one-and-done pieces, I know it’s time for my secret weapon: the slip dress.

Slip dresses are deceivingly simple. At first glance, it’s just silk fabric in the shade and length of your choice, but these elements are merely the starting point. What kind of silhouette do you want your slip to accentuate? Should you consider lace or floral detailing? Long or short? Satin or true silk? The consideration set for slips is actually quite long, so I’ll help make it easier to navigate. 

The perfect slip is cut on the bias, more fitted in the waist but allowing for tons of movement (this applies whether it is long or short). You’ll notice that most slip dresses have a round or cowl neck—this helps make the distinction that the slip is a piece to wear out, instead of lingerie.

Once you have a slip dress that feels good enough to wear on its own, you can start the fun process of layering! Slip dresses can be worn in so many different ways, which is part of what makes them a closet power player. If you are going somewhere casual, layer an oversized knit cardigan and add a pair of Doc Martens. If you’re headed to a night out, a blazer or trench with a pair of heeled boots will look effortlessly sophisticated.

And of course, when you’ve got a major special occasion in the pipeline, your slip dress is ready to help you do the most—just pin your hair back, layer on statement jewelry and the highest heels in your closest. Below, I’ve rounded up the best slip dresses to order right now if you’re ready to make room for a new MVP in your closet.

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Mallory Cowl Neck Slip Dress

Behold the epitome of the classic short slip dress. When you inevitably fall in love with this cowl neck slip from Urban Outfitters, you’ll want to buy it in the other 11 (yes, 11) colors and patterns.

Curve Hammered Satin Cowl Woven Slip Dress

One way to guarantee all eyes will be on you is to wear cobalt blue. This vibrant slip dress comes in plus sizes 14-20, and the little slit at the knee makes it perfect for a night out dancing.

 

Satin Slip Dress

Schedule this lime green satin slip in for your next date night. I love that the straps have some extra bling with rhinestone details. On cooler days or during the winter month, ;ayer it over a patterned long-sleeve and statement tights.

 

Silk Sleep Slip with High Slit

This SKIMS slip mentions sleep in the name, but it deserves to be worn out on the town. The gathered detail and high slit make it perfect for a leg pop moment, especially on a beach vacation. Plus, it comes in four colors and sizes XXS-4X.

 

Skyler Dress

This LBD is a more structured take on a slip dress with underwire detailing. The rhinestone clasp makes it perfect for a fancier event, but it also works for a casual night out if you dress it down with a jacket.

Sparkle Slit Dress with Slit

A little sparkle goes a long way—I love this glitter slip dress from Eloquii as a statement slip. It’s dressy enough to wear to a wedding, or it can be toned town with a leather jacket.

Porter Dress

The double-strap detail on this mint green slip dress by Michael Costello x Revolve is minimalist, yet impactful. The back of the dress also has a cowl detail—and if you look closely, you’ll see the color is a subtle ombre.

 

Silky Slip Dress

This patterned slip dress has a traditional cowl neck and a tie in the back so you can easily adjust the fit. Available in petite, regular and plus sizes, the bold hue and vibrant print make it ideal for a warm-weather first date.

 

Night Owl Slip

I love the ruched bust detailing of this cider-toned slip (which also comes in black and cherry red) for anyone who likes a bias cut but isn’t into a classic cowl neck. The back has an open keyhole shape with a long tie—perfect for an elegant evening.

 

Makena Midi Dress

This hot pink slip dress is the definition of “bolder is better”. The relaxed silhouette keeps the fuchsia shade from looking too over the top—but if you’re into that sort of thing, by all means, add some glitzy heels and a statement clutch.

Asymmetric Satin Midi Slip

The silhouette of this asymmetrical slip is super sleek and keeps a classic shape from feeling too basic. The v-neck also gives you the opportunity to have fun with layering necklaces to add a little sparkle. It is available in sizes 14-20.

Gaia Dress

A sweet floral dress goes with everything from a jean jacket to a fur coat. This blush slip will be the go-to in your closet for wedding invites and happy hours.