Image via Farm Rio Pink Cocoa Forest Maxi Dress
Every woman needs these eight types of dresses to take her from day to night, to turn heads, and to serve function as well as fashion. We’ve broken it down, from minimalist styles and basic LBDs to full-on gala gowns, club dresses, and wedding must-haves. Treat yourself to one from every category, and you’ll be good to go!
The Favorite Season Dress
A casual everyday dress will leave you feeling refreshed during the spring and summer – even as temperatures climb. The right cotton gown can be as sweet as the season.
Our Picks:
Farm Rio White Spotted Bananas Maxi Dress ($265, shop here)
Farm Rio Pink Cocoa Forest Maxi Dress ($265, shop here)
The Wedding Guest Dress
RSVP yes to the floral dress when you’re invited to a wedding. Whether the event is casual or black tie, you’ll never go wrong with floral prints, which enliven any silhouette and work with every length from mini to maxi.
Our Picks:
Reformation Nikita Tropical Print Midi Dress ($248, shop here)
Reformation Kourtney Felicity Print Midi Dress ($248, shop here)
The Eye-Catching Mini Dress
Ultra-flattering mini dresses accentuate all the positives for those days and nights where you want to go bold. Stand out from the crowd in an eye-catching choice that’s sure to draw some attention.
Our Picks:
Year of Ours Court Sleeveless Mini Dress ($150, shop here)
Retrofête Ariella Tie-Dyed Silk Slip Dress ($445, shop here)
The Cocktail Party Dress
The spotlight is on you as you make the rounds of the party circuit. The perfect cocktail dress goes from drinks to dinner and on to dancing. Look appealing from sunset to early-morning hours in lace, silks, florals, and more in all lengths.
Our Picks:
Kay Unger Floral Lace Midi Dress ($248, shop here)
Chelsea28 Chiffon Midi Dress ($119, shop here)
The Minimalist Dress
You need a smart, neutral number or LBD that is fit for function as well as fashion. Pair it with a blazer, denim jacket, or even your favorite tennis shoes.
Our Picks:
Dolan Collection Belted Mini Dress ($160, shop here)
Sundry Ruched Mini Dress ($148, shop here)
The Every Occasion Dress
Choose a midi-length dress when you need a style that’s appropriate for all seasons and circumstances. A hemline that falls at the calf can be dressed up with heels or down with flats.
Our Picks:
Reiss Emma Tie-Waist Shirtdress ($165, shop here)
River Island Belted Shirtdress ($88, shop here)
The All-Out Gala Dress
Slip into a to-die-for dress for an evening of elegance and esteem. The right full-length formal gown will elevate your wardrobe to new heights. Dark colors are timeless, and delicate details embellish the moment.
Our Pick: Jenny Yoo Logan Velvet Dress ($290, shop here)
The Playful Jumpsuit
One-piece jumpsuits are making a comeback and are edging aside traditional dresses everywhere. Whether wide-leg or ultra-fitted, wearing a jumpsuit says that you know a good trend when you see one.
Zara Printed Jumpsuit with Knot ($69.90, shop here)