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A cozy sweater dress is great, but if there’s one type of dress you shouldn’t overlook, it’s the slip dress. Slip dresses are timeless and versatile frocks — even more than the best shirt dresses — and are ideal for year-round dressing. They can be the best cocktail dress for evening events, weddings, or as summer dresses when the weather is hot. They’re also great fall dresses and layering pieces once things cool off. Throw a sweater or blazer on top, and you have a complete outfit.
This season, slip dresses are more relevant than ever as fashion is having a love affair with the ’90s. So, keep reading for expert tips and tricks to finding and styling the best slip dresses for women, from midi to maxi dresses, long-sleeved, and more.
The History of the Slip Dress
The slip dress has a long history of creating conversation, as far back as iconic tastemaker Marie Antoinette, who was among the first to experiment with the idea of lingerie as outerwear. During the ’90s, the slip dress exploded in popularity: Gwyneth Paltrow dazzled in a beaded version at the 1996 Academy Awards; Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy was married in a brilliant white Narciso Rodriguez slip in the same year; and Kate Moss – the ultimate ’90s style icon – made the slip dress her signature, frequently stepping out in silky, sparkly and even sheer styles.
Originally, slips were meant to be layered under a dress as an undergarment. But, over the last few decades, the slip dress has become a powerhouse piece in a capsule wardrobe. “The popularity of a slip dress may ebb and flow depending on trends, pop culture, and weather, but to me, it will always be a classic foundational piece in a woman’s wardrobe and one you will be able to return to over and over again,” says Katie Kolodinski, the founder and creative director of Silk Laundry.
Top Slip Dresses of 2023
- Amazon The Drop Sequin Slip Dress
- Tsher Sleeveless Dress
- Best Silk Dress: Rodarte Silk Dress
- Peter Dundas Slip
- Best Midi Dress: Vince Satin Slip Midi Dress
- Norma Kamali V-Neck Slip Dress
- Skims Ribbed Long Slip Dress
- ASTR The Label Cowl Dress
- Theory Godet Stretch Dress
- Best for Fall: Reformation Parma Silk Dress
- Best Casual Dress: Doen Long Slip
- Silk Laundry ‘90s Slip Dress
- Best Satin Silk Dress: L’Agence Satin Silk Dress
- Anine Bing Lisette Dress
- Aritzia Sonnet Dress
- Best for Weddings: Bardot Carlotta Slip Dress
- Rixo Clarece Slip Dress
- Best Lace-Trimmed Dress: AllSaints Praia Lace Trim Slip Cress
- J.Crew Gwyneth Slip Dress
- Best Zara Dress: Zara Floral Print Slip Dress
- Third Form Slip Dress
- Free People That Girl Dress
- Best Silk Dress: Nili Lotan Cami Silk Slip Cress
- Best for Summer: Brandon Maxwell Slip Dress
- Best Fur-Trimmed Dress: Sleeper Net Sustain Boheme Feather-Trimmed Lenzing Ecovero Satin Chemise
- Best for Under Dresses: Commando Debutante Long Slip Dress
- Best for a Bride: Anna October White Lidi Maxi Dress
- Olivia Von Halle Bibi Chocolate Silk Satin Slip Dress
Own a piece of fashion history by heading to the WWD Store where you can purchase chic and inspiring archival photo prints.
Amazon The Drop Sequin Slip Dress
- Size: XXS-5X
- Color: Black, Gold, Pewter, Silver
- Material: Polyester
It’s hard to beat the convenience of Amazon’s quick shipping if you’re looking for a last-minute dress for the holidays. This sequin number is a celebratory style that will look great for formal occasions. Since this dress will serve as a standout all its own, consider keeping your accessories simple, like a sleek black heel or satin bag.
What reviewers say: “I wore it for my anniversary and I received compliments from literally everybody!”
Tsher Sleeveless Dress
- Size: XS-XL
- Color: Rust, Black, Blue, Beige and 34 others.
- Material: Polyester
Looking for the perfect wedding guest dress? This cowl neck design is an elegant and understated option for under $50. The wide array of color options means that you can buy multiples to cover you through a packed season of events.
What reviewers say: “Needed something last minute for a wedding, this worked perfectly,” writes a reviewer. “I got a lot of compliments, the dress fit and was very comfortable.”
Rodarte Silk Dress
Best Lace Slip Dress
- Size: 6-13
- Color: Champagne
- Material: Silk
Embrace a vintage touch with this sweet and simple piece from the LA-based label Rodarte. The silk slip is embellished with lace detailing and a playful flower attached to the chest, making it instantly stand out. Sisters Kate and Laura Mulleavy have built the brand with a romantic, artistic approach that makes each design feel like something special made just for you. Embrace the negligee quality and style with a pair of feathered sandals or a silk bag.
Peter Dundas Slip Dress
- Size: S-L
- Color: Multi
- Material: Crepe de Chine
Get a little bit nautical with this rope print dress from Norwegian designer Peter Dundas. The crepe de chine fabric is light and soft to the touch, great for warm summer days when you want to show some skin. The lace details across the chest add a delicate detail that offers a bit more coverage of the decolletage. Try keeping your look light by styling this dress with simple sandals.
Vince Satin Slip Mini Dress
Best Midi Slip Dress
- Size: XS-XL
- Color: Black, Navy
- Material: Acetate
Elevated basics brand Vince is known for its modern take on everyday essentials. Its iteration of the slip dress is simple, sleek, and easy to style. A relaxed fit and thick, adjustable straps mean you’ll be comfortable wearing the dress all day long. Plus, the mid-calf length is perfect for dressing up or down. Consider this the best casual slip dress for the woman on the go.
What reviewers say: “I have a classic hourglass figure and this slip dress fits me like it was made for me.”
Norma Kamali V-Neck Slip Dress
- Size: XS-XL
- Color: Black
- Material: Polyester, Spandex
Count on Norma Kamali to offer up a slip dress that puts comfort at the forefront. This stretch design is fitted and flattering, cut with a mid-rise V-neck shape. The flouncy hem adds a touch of playfulness to the basic black silhouette. So, don’t be afraid to adopt this as your go-to party dress this winter.
Skims Ribbed Long Slip Dress
- Size: XXS-4X
- Color: Sienna, Oxide, Rose Clay, Marble, and nine others
- Material: 91% modal, 9% spandex
A maxi dress silhouette isn’t the most common slip style, but this fitted design from Skims is the perfect day-to-night option. The variety of colors means that you can wear the style throughout the year, just switch your hue of choice.
What reviewers say: “I receive so many compliments on this dress. It is so comfy and such an easy throw-on with sandals summer outfit.”
ASTR The Label Cowl Dress
- Size: XS-XL
- Color: Sage
- Material: Polyester
This cowl neck style from LA-based ASTR has crisscrossed back straps that can be adjusted to fit your body better. A side slit and the back detail make this dress a great choice for parties or occasions when you want a look that’s a bit more flashy. Style the army-green dress with statement accessories to bring your look together.
What reviewers say: “I usually wear a size 12 to 14 and the x-large fits perfectly,” writes one reviewer. “Very flattering for curves, and has enough room for someone with a larger chest (I’m 38DDD).”
Theory Godet Stretch Dress
- Size: 0-6
- Color: Beige
- Material: Polyester
- Special features: Made from recycled material
Sometimes, keeping it simple is the best thing to do. This light, floaty slip dress from Theory is minimal yet elegant, with soft pleats that allow the dress to move easily with you. The braided spaghetti straps add a little bit of flair where you might not expect it.
Reformation Parma Silk Dress
- Sizes: XS-L
- Color: Lipstick, Night Garden, Rose Garden
- Material: 82% rayon, 18% silk
Embrace the ease of a slip dress with the Parma dress from the beloved LA label Reformation. Sleek spaghetti straps rest comfortably on the shoulders, while the low scoop neck highlights the chest and allows room for those with bigger busts. So, break this style out for your company holiday party or a playful celebration with friends.
Doen Long Slip
Best Casual Slip Dress
- Size: XXS-XXL
- Color: Umber, Conch, Sand Dollar, Carob, Black
- Material: Viscose
This elegant slip dress from Doen is a sheer style that’s best worn with something underneath or as an option for bed. The soft viscose fabric will touch your skin softly without feeling itchy or rough. The minimal design makes it an easy layering piece, and the range of colors makes it easy to find a style for your skin tone. If you’re building up your basics, this is a great fundamental piece.
Everlane Japanese Goweave Slip Dress
- Size: 00-12
- Color: Black, Beech, Deep Blue
- Material: 100% Triacetate
Direct-to-consumer label Everlane has its own take on the simple slip dress. The wrinkle-free fabric makes this dress an easy pick for traveling. Just throw it in your suitcase and don’t worry about it getting mussed up in transit.
What reviewers say: “I’ve purchased this dress in 2 colors, they have become my go-to’s for effortless summer dressing,” writes one reviewer. “The lines are very flattering, the material is comfortable, and the dress can easily go from day to night.”
Silk Laundry ‘90s Slip Dress
- Size: XS-XL
- Color: Pik paisley
- Material: Silk
Get playful with your fashion choices and opt for a printed slip dress in a simple ‘90s-inspired silhouette. “Our slip dresses have always been made from 100% silk,” says Kolodinski. “They are cut on the bias, and the cut and shape seem to work on the majority of body shapes.” The easy fit is designed to work for you for years to come, so consider investing now.
L’Agence Satin Silk Dress
Best Satin Silk Slip Dress
- Size: 0-14
- Color: Green, pink
- Material: Silk
Ever feel like you’re still searching for a versatile dress that you can wear for weddings, parties, and even just while running errands? Look no further. This simple, floaty maxi dress is effortless and elegant all at once. The bias cut will sit comfortably on your body, while adjustable shoulder straps ensure that it won’t slip or move uncomfortably.
Anine Bing Lisette Dress
- Size: XS-L
- Color: Cream
- Material: Silk
Prefer a slip with a mini silhouette? This sweet number from LA-based Anine Bing is playful without feeling too young. The chain print is subtle yet eye-catching, something unexpected, especially when peeking out from under a blazer or jacket. Try styling for date night with your favorite heels and a chain-link shoulder bag.
Aritzia Sonnet Dress
- Size: XS-2XL
- Color: Light Birch, Morado Grey, Bitter Sage, Vital Pink, and 4 others
- Material: 100% Polyester
Try a little something elegant and opt for this slip dress with a unique laced detail at the hem. The style is made from Japanese satin and is soft to the touch yet lightweight with a hint of sheerness. Artizia is a brand favored for its stylish takes on everyday classics, so you can also grab one of the brand’s oversized cardigans or long robe coats to style along with it for cool days. Finish the look off with knee-high boots.
What reviewers say: “Fit is great. I’m curvy and it’s super flattering, not too tight. I’m going to buy in all colors.”
Bardot Carlotta Slip Dress
Best Slip Dress for Weddings
- Size: XS-L
- Color: Black, Fern
- Material: 100% Viscose
If you’re looking for a go-to elevated black maxi dress then this cutout design from Bardot is for you. The Australian brand has a knack for nailing occasion dressing with standout designs. Style the look with metallic accessories to add a punch, and add a statement necklace for a bold look.
Rixo Clarece Slip Dress
- Size: XXS-2XL
- Color: Steel blue
- Material: 60% cotton. 40% silk
This cap-sleeved style from Rixo is a great slip dress if you want something with a bit more coverage. The lace-trimmed piece from the British label has a vintage flair while still feeling modern and elegant. It has a beautiful sky-blue hue and delicate lace trim, yet it won’t feel like you’re wearing your grandma’s nightgown.
AllSaints Praia Lace Trim Slip Dress
- Size: XS-XL
- Color: Black, Spring Green, Violet Purple, Ivory White
- Material: 100% Silk
Prepare to instantly fall in love with the soft, drapey feel of this lace-trimmed slip dress from AllSaints. While the fabric doesn’t have any stretch, the floaty fabric will feel light against the skin. Since AllSaints is known for its edgy, modern takes on wardrobe essentials, try styling this black dress with grungy accessories. A cool pair of combat boots or a leather jacket would both make fitting choices.
J.Crew Gwyneth Slip Dress
- Size: 4-24
- Color: Ripe persimmon, Sagebrush, Black
- Material: Viscose
- Note: Made of 30% recycled material
You may know J.Crew for its immaculate collection of preppy blazers, striped sweaters, and ballet flats, but the brand makes great slip dresses too. The casual slip dress is made for enjoying summer thanks to its lightweight viscose fabric and loose fit. Unsurprisingly, as it’s named the Gwyneth dress, it has the vibe of a ‘90s style worn by Gwyneth Paltrow.
What reviewers say: “If you buy one dress this season from J. Crew, make it this one. It is stunning,”
Zara Floral Print Slip Dress
Best Zara Slip Dress
- Size: XS-XL
- Color: Black
- Material: 100% Polyester
Although this slip dress is covered in bouquets of delicate pink flowers, there’s a punk edge to the piece. The contrasting black background and colorful flowers are a combination that feels unique and covetable. The dress’ V-neck silhouette and double spaghetti straps are simple but have a cool effect that makes this a great dress for date night or a fancy night out. If you’re always looking for affordable go-to pieces from Zara, this will be your new favorite.
Third Form Slip Dress
- Size: 6-14
- Color: White
- Material: Polyester
On the hunt for a slip dress for your wedding or rehearsal dinner? This sleek open-back style from Third Form is a simple, yet elegant option. It’s perfect for a laid-back wedding or a pre-party leading up to the main event. The cowl neck and criss-cross spaghetti straps are both elevated details that set this option above the rest. A front slit allows for easy movement, so you don’t have to worry about slipping while you walk down the aisle.
Free People That Girl Dress
- Size: XS-XL
- Color: Black, Verde, Fig Jam, Pumpkin Pie and 2 others.
- Material: 100% Polyester
If you’re not already a fan of the bohemian twist that Free People puts on its pieces, prepare to have a new go-to. This dress will get you into the end-of-year spirit with its playful sparkle and short hemline. It’s especially for celebratory events such as work holiday parties or fun nights out with friends.
What reviewers say: “I wore this out to dinner and dancing in Miami. I got SO many compliments on it.”
Brandon Maxwell Slip Dress
Best Slip Dress for Summer
- Size: 0-8
- Color: Multi
- Material: Silk
If you’re looking to splurge on a statement style for a special occasion, Brandon Maxwell’s striped dress is the one you’ll love. The tie-open back is elevated and elegant, while the front keeps things simple. Consider this for big parties or black-tie weddings in the summer. Although it’s a bold piece, trust us, you’ll find more than one occasion to wear it.
Nili Lotan Cami Silk Slip Dress
Best Silk Slip Dress
- Size: XS-XL
- Color: Purple, Tangier
- Material: Silk
Nili Lotan has built its brand around pieces that are easy to style with one another for major impact and timeless buying. Its Cami Silk Slip Dress is the perfect example, as it serves as the grounding element that ties everything together. It consists of pure silk, so you can count on it lasting for many seasons to come. Pair it with kitten heels and a light jacket for a casual dinner al fresco.
Sleeper Net Sustain Boheme Feather-Trimmed Lenzing Ecovero Satin Chemise
- Size: XS-XL
- Color: Black, Baby Pink, Blue
- Material: 100% LENZING ECOVERO rayon; trim: 100% feathers (Ostrich)
When the dress code says cocktail, pull out this satin number. It’s a glamorous frock that is cut from figure-skimming Lenzing Ecovero satin. It elegantly drapes across any figure and adds a dramatic flair with the ostrich feather trim. Style with pearl earrings and platform heels for a fun evening out.
Commando Debutante Long Slip
Best Slip for Under Dresses
- Size: S/M, M/L
- Color: Black, Beige
- Material: Nylon/Spandex
If you’re looking for a slip dress that provides extra coverage but won’t ride up, Commando’s Debutante Long Slip Dress is for you. This buttery soft dress is lightweight and perfect for wearing by itself or under a sheer dress as a second-skin lining.
What reviewers say: “This dress is so absolutely flattering, it looks good on its own & under everything.”
Anna October White Lidid Maxi Dress
Best Slip Dress for a Bride
- Size: XS-XL
- Color: White
- Material: Viscose
Minimalist brides, rejoice. Anna October’s White Lidi Maxi Dress is your — second — match made in heaven. The slip dress has a lingerie-inspired design with a sweetheart neck, bustier detail, adjustable elasticized shoulder straps, and adjustable hook-eye fastening at the low back. Whether you wear it to your rehearsal dinner, as your bridal dress, to your afterparty, or on your honeymoon, this frock adds elegance and ease to your momentous occasion.
Olivia Von Halle Bibi Chocolate Silk Satin Slip Dress
- Size: XS-XL
- Color: Chocolate
- Material: 100% 19 momme silk
True to Olivia von Halle’s no-expense-spared ethos, the brand’s Bibi Chocolate Silk Satin Slip Dress is spun from a sumptuous 19 momme silk. As a result, shoppers get a butter-soft fabric that is as supple on the inside as it is on the outside, so you can look – and feel – extraordinary. This dress also features a cowl neckline and chain straps for an elevated take on the classic slip dress. Style it as seen here with chunky gold jewelry and matching strappy sandals.
What To Look For In A Slip Dress
- Material: Silk or satin slip dresses are classic options that are soft against the skin and great for breathability (a perk when you’re looking for the right slip dress for summer). If you’re looking for styles that have a bit of stretch, look for one that includes spandex in its composition. For more inexpensive options, like some favorite dresses from Amazon, polyester is often used as an alternative to silk as it has a similar material feel. You can also keep an eye out for materials like crepe, chine, or lace, which tend to be fabrics used for embellishment or extra flair.
- Style: “Our slip dresses have always been made from 100% silk, they are cut on the bias and the cut and shape seems to work on the majority of body shapes,” says Kolodinski. “Having it cut on the bias allows for fluctuations and changes in a woman’s figure and even through pregnancy and beyond.” Some styles will be designed to have a looser fit that hangs off the body, while others will be fitted, often with a hidden zipper or a stretchy fabrication to allow the dress to hug tighter against your body.
- Occasion: One of the best things about slip dresses is their versatility. You can easily dress them up or down, swapping out shoes and jewelry. That being said, you may want to keep the silhouette and material in mind for more formal events. For example, cocktail attire may call for a more fitted dress, perhaps in a solid color or even an elegant black, while casual outings will require looser, more relaxed styles.
Slip Dress Trends of 2023
This spring and summer, it’s all about showing off some skin. So, what’s the easy, elevated way to do so? Slip dresses. On the runways, we saw a bountiful amount of delicate silk materials, sheer fabrics, and transparent layering. Designers like Tom Ford, Saint Laurent, and Nensi Dojaka showed skin-baring lingerie-inspired slip dresses while brands like Georgio Armani and Fe Noel showed flowy and flounced slip dresses that ranged from classic to trendy updates with details such as ruffles.
Additionally, brands like Rodarte and Magda Burtrym joined in on the celebration of romantic and modern slip dresses with silhouettes that involved lace and 3D rosettes. Lastly, at Gabriela Hearst, we saw the wardrobe staple reissued with metallic, alluding to the brand’s timelessness and ability to constantly reinvent itself.
Slip Dress Outfit Ideas: How To Style A Slip Dress
- For brunch: Looking to put together a stylish outfit for some mimosas with friends? Slip dresses and designer sneakers are the perfect pairings. More specifically, opt for a slip dress lace or ruffle detail since they’ll add feminine touches to balance out the masculine style of the sneaker. You can finish with an oversized sweater and a belt to give the illusion that you’re wearing a skirt.
- For the office: Thanks to more and more designers, there are many pull-on styles to keep you warm and comfortable. The best tip for wearing a slip dress during to the office during the winter is to embrace tights. Then, you can accessorize your dress with a wool duster or a long leather coat. During the warmer months, don’t be afraid to embrace color in coordination with the new blooms. A bold slip dress — printed or a single solid bright hue — is a great way to infuse personality into your wardrobe. Try layering a favorite blazer or cashmere knit over the top for layering, and style it with a pair of knee-high boots or loafers.
- For an evening soirée: Whether you’re heading to a wedding or a holiday party, a slip dress is a seamless way to look chic. Opt for a midi or maxi dress and consider one with a colorful pattern, such as a floral print. If you’re part of a wedding party, a slip dress in a solid color is an effortless way to nail the dress code. Add fun, chunky accessories or simple, delicate jewels and a designer clutch to complete your look.
- For dinner on the beach: When it’s hot out, you’ll want to wear the least amount possible. A slip dress worn solo makes that easy. If you plan to wear one on a beach vacation, style with flat sandals and a statement necklace or bold pair of hoops.
Meet The Author
Aemilia Madden is a writer, editor, and brand consultant who has worked in the fashion industry for over eight years. She’s an Oakland, California native and Brooklyn resident. When she’s not writing about the latest fashion trends, Madden is running in Prospect Park, testing new recipes on her friends, and trying to keep up with her New Yorker subscription. Madden loves the versatility of her favorite slip dresses for both easy, casual dressing and sleek formal occasions.
Nikki Chwatt is the Style Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD, where she writes and edits stories on the latest clothing and shoe trends. She is at the forefront of all consumer trends with a keen eye for the latest, greatest, and classics of what people wear, buy, and love. With the change of season in New York City, Chwatt is always searching for the best slip dresses because they can be worn alone during warm seasons and layered with other garments in cold temperatures. Thus, Chwatt has updated this best slip dress story with the latest findings and more expert advice.
Meet The Expert
Katie Kolodinski is the founder and creative director of Silk Laundry, a brand that has mastered the art of the silk slip dress. She founded the brand in 2015.