HOW TO STYLE A SLIP DRESS: OUTFIT IDEAS AND TOP DESIGNS

When it comes to fashion, the past is the perfect place to look for inspiration. And as minimalism takes hold, it’s no surprise that the ’90s—a decade that popularized the simplicity of baggy jeans, white tanks, and crop tops—is leaving its mark on modern styles. Slip dresses have also returned to the spotlight, with women everywhere reinterpreting the design to fit their unique sense of style.

Although slips traditionally have a lingerie air, modern designers have reinterpreted the pattern with contemporary tastes in mind. Now the shape can be found with beautiful patterns and innovative designs made from heavy or sheer fabrics. Their simplicity makes them work well as stand-alone pieces and as foundations for building entire outfits.

We’ll explain how to style a slip dress and explore some of today’s best designer renditions.

WHAT IS A SLIP DRESS?

Slips were originally worn as undergarments, a lightweight barrier designed to reduce static and smooth out lines beneath dresses. Today’s slip dresses follow a similar silhouette—spaghetti straps and body-skimming shapes. The neckline can be unembellished or adorned with lace, and hems fall anywhere from mini to maxi length. These dresses are typically made from satin, silk, or other synthetic materials, ensuring a slight sheen or luster.

HOW TO STYLE A SLIP DRESS

Slip dresses have become essential in nearly every women’s capsule wardrobe. Their versatility goes unmatched in the dress world, fitting seamlessly into any style or season.

These outfit ideas reimagine the slip dress for a modern context:

As a stand-alone dress

Slip dresses come in numerous exciting colors and need few additions to look impressive. Style one on its own with heels, jewelry, and a structured handbag. Use a simple everyday necklace, unassuming rings, and earrings to call attention to the dress, or use the dress as a foundation for statement jewelry.

With a blazer

Blazers and slip dresses are a match made in heaven. Style them in a monochromatic tone or with complementary colors, or incorporate the dress’s shade into the blazer’s pattern—even the subtlest nod to the slip’s color will please the eye. The length of both pieces can match, or let the dress’s hem fall below the blazer’s.

Under a bomber jacket

Meld together the opposing elements of a feminine slip and masculine bomber jacket for a foolproof fall look. Choose a playful pastel dress and match it to an oversized rugged olive bomber. Add heels or boots, and complement the outfit with a soft leather clutch and dangling earrings.

Over a T-shirt

The opportunities for styling a slip dress are endless when paired with a casual white tee. The relaxed nature allows the dress to be paired with utilitarian items like combat boots, loafers, sneakers, and tote bags.

As a mini with a leather jacket

Tap into some ’90s grunge with this fierce leather jacket ensemble. Match the length of the oversized leather jacket with that of a black slip dress and accessorize with tights, sunglasses, and chunky silver rings. For footwear, opt for ankle boots, or add excitement with knee-high boots.

Winterize it

Although slip dresses are often thought of as spring and summer closet staples, they can be winterized with the proper styling. Start with a maxi slip dress and tights, then add an outerwear piece—puffer jackets, wool coats, or faux fur are all good options. Next, select coordinating boots, earmuffs, a scarf, and gloves.

The best slip dresses

It’s nearly impossible to pinpoint the perfect slip, as numerous designers have mastered the shape while instilling their own creativity. Fortunately, the offerings are vast, and there’s a style for everyone. These labels have designed exquisite slip dresses that stand out from the crowd.

Erdem

Erdem is famed for vibrant prints and intricate details, with each design exemplifying a powerful feminine attitude through bold florals, appliqués, pleats, and embroidery. The label’s one-of-a-kind floral-print midi slip dress features gathered shoulders, an empire waist, and graphic white flowers printed on a striking mandarin-orange backdrop. 

L’Agence

L’Agence set out to create a collection for women to adore year after year. The pieces are made with the goal of being timeless, using classic cuts free from the influence of trends. L’Agence’s slip dresses are offered in solid tones and exciting cheetah prints that pair well with edgy leather moto jackets, T-shirts, white sneakers, or heels.

BERNADETTE

Created by a mother and daughter duo, BERNADETTE fuses their two distinct visions of luxury to offer a unique point of view. The ready-to-wear collection exhibits electrifying colors and botanical prints. The citrus-print silk slip dress is saturated with citrus fruits and daffodils on a delightful blue base. Style the dress with a denim jacket and heels for a sweet date-night look.

Galvan

Galvan is celebrated for its sophisticated eveningwear, offering a streamlined vision of luxury. Some of the label’s satin slip dresses feature halter necklines with long self-tying ribbons that gracefully fall to the back. Choose a slip from a selection of rich colors ranging from pine to gold, and style them with chic heels and clutches.

Jil Sander

Jil Sander is synonymous with refined minimalism. Clean lines and deep monochrome tones define the timeless garments of the ready-to-wear collection. The V-neck viscose slip dress features sharp diagonal cuts and subtle gathered details. Style the design with sleek black boots and a shoulder bag.

Cinq à Sept

Cinq à Sept has perfected breezy looks for any occasion. The dress collection is characterized by unexpected detailing that comes together to produce an assertive allure. The slip dresses hold their own, fashioned from fine silk with asymmetrical hemlines, cowl necks, and ruching.

Ganni

Ganni embraces a playful nature with experimental accents, exciting illustrations, and bright colors throughout its ready-to-wear collection. The crinkled satin slip dress features a naturally wrinkled appearance in a vibrant green fabric with carefully placed side slits. The design stands tall on its own or with an oversized blazer or trench coat as desired.

SLIP INTO STYLE

Neiman Marcus’ wide range of designer dresses will have you hunting for reasons to dress up every day of the week. Explore our luxe fabrics and flattering cuts to build a slip-dress outfit that will dazzle at any occasion. For personalized styling tips and outfit recommendations, book a one-on-one in-store or virtual appointment with a style advisor.

Delve into the editorial archive for more ideas and inspiration, like how to make the most of ’90s fashion and must-have matching skirt and crop-top sets.