A comprehensive guide to dress styles
Dresses are the essence of a feminine silhouette – and each style tells its own story of style. From iconic lines such as A and H to trend-defining cuts such as mermaid, cut-out or blazer dresses: our curated overview explains dress shapes precisely, shows their effect on the figure, suitability for occasions and styling options. This will help you find the model that suits your style, proportions and event more quickly – and elevate your look from everyday wear to designer DNA.
What types of dresses are there?
A-line dress
The term A-line is used to describe dresses that have narrow shoulders but then widen continuously towards the hem – just like the capital letter A. The A-line cut is one of the most widely used in fashion, timeless and a true classic. Especially in business fashion, the A-line with its feminine, waist-emphasising cut has become indispensable.
Style guideline:
A-line dresses are best worn on their own to show off the silhouette to its best advantage.
Matching accessories & shoes:
Anything goes! Flat sandals or high heels, trainers or ankle boots – almost any type of shoe goes with an A-line dress. When it comes to accessories, anything that emphasises the wide, flowing shape of the dress is recommended: long necklaces, light shoulder bags or flowing scarves.
Asymmetric dress
Dresses with an asymmetrical cut look extravagant and often have a loose and dynamic drape. Dresses with an asymmetrical cut include slanted dresses with a leg cut-out, handkerchief dresses with a pointed hem and so-called mullet dresses, which are short at the front and long at the back. The top can also be asymmetrical; dresses with a one-shoulder cut that leaves one shoulder completely bare are particularly common. Asymmetrical dresses come in all lengths and shapes, but they are mostly midi dresses and knee-length dresses with a rather girlish cut.
Style guideline:
Asymmetrical dresses look youthful and modern, but can also appear too playful in certain contexts. A delicate touch is required here. You can create a mega-influencer style, for example, by wearing a T-shirt under your one-shoulder dress. Be brave!
Matching accessories & shoes:
Depending on the length, trainers, sandals or ballerina flats are all great options. When it comes to accessories, it's best to keep things simple – the asymmetry is the star of the show!
Babydoll dress
Babydoll dresses are short, airy dresses with an empire waist. The waistline sits just below the bust, so that the hem falls wide and airy to about thigh height. Babydolls are usually strapless or have narrow spaghetti straps. The oversized babydoll cut with long sleeves has a more modern look. The babydoll dress usually has a very girlish effect. Wear it with more masculine accessories to take away the sweetness of the style.
Style guideline:
This playful dress is an ideal summer dress for young women.
Matching accessories & shoes:
Flat sandals emphasise the casual look, while high-top trainers or loafers add an edgy touch.
Balloon dress
The O-line is also known as the balloon dress, which is not a very flattering name, and was also invented in the 1950s. Instead of showing off feminine curves, the O-line prefers to show itself off. The widest part of the dress is at the hips and waist, and the dress narrows towards the bottom, giving it its typical round balloon shape.
Style guideline:
Please, no patterns! O-line dresses can be very concealing, but patterns can be bulky.
Suitable accessories & shoes:
Platform shoes go great with the O-line. When it comes to accessories, it's best to go for anything that emphasises length, such as long necklaces, scarves or bags with long straps.
Strapless (Bandeau) Dress
A strapless dress, also known as a bandeau dress, is a timeless summer style featuring a fitted top that stays in place with an elastic band across the bust, leaving the shoulders beautifully bare. The word bandeau comes from French and means “band” or “ribbon” – describing the signature straight neckline that defines this look. This “band” can appear in various forms – from snug and fitted to softly draped or fully elasticated with ribbing. Playful versions often feature a loose ruffle overlay across the bust. What all bandeau dresses share is their signature straight neckline that highlights the neck and shoulders and offers complete freedom of movement.
Style Guideline:
Bandeau dresses are true summer classics — perfect for holidays, beach days, or relaxed weekends. Usually made from light cotton or jersey, they radiate an effortlessly youthful vibe.
Matching Accessories & Shoes:
Anything that captures the spirit of summer works beautifully! Think romantic sandals or slides, a wide-brimmed sun hat, oversized sunglasses, and a straw or canvas bag. When the weather cools down, simply throw a colourful beach shawl over your shoulders or layer an oversized shirt for a laid-back finish.
Blazer dress
Blazer dresses were already very popular in the 80s and are making a spectacular comeback in the 2020s, especially in a business context. The blazer dress is an elongated blazer, so there is no need to wear trousers. The straight-cut dress features a deep lapel and a single or double-breasted button placket. Many blazer dresses also have a waist belt as an extra eye-catcher.
Style guideline:
For business meetings, choose a knee-length or midi-length version, preferably in a tweed look. For parties, a short blazer dress in a sexy mini version is also an option. For brunch with the girls, simply open the dress and wear it with a shirt and skinny jeans.
Matching accessories & shoes:
The outfit looks classic with pumps, while mules or chunky brogues give the look a more sophisticated feel. An envelope bag emphasises the business character. In the evening, you can really step it up a notch: over-the-knee boots look great with a blazer dress!
Pencil dress
Here, too, the letter P was the inspiration for the name: it refers to a dress that is straight and tends to be narrow in cut and ends at the knee. The H-line is often also referred to as a pencil dress. The slim silhouette looks elegant and emphasises the wearer's curves. Pencil dresses are fashion icons of the 1960s and are a particularly good choice for festive occasions.
Style guideline:
The H-line focuses on the waist. You can emphasise your midriff even more with a belt.
Matching accessories & shoes:
High heels or sandals go perfectly with pencil dresses. When it gets cold, throw on a short tweed blazer, or go for a more casual look with a short oversized crop jumper.
Off-shoulder dress
An off-shoulder dress – also known as a Carmen dress – is defined by its airy, feminine style, often featuring vibrant colours and eye-catching prints reminiscent of traditional Andalusian flamenco attire. The signature element of this design is the wide, elasticated neckline that sits low on the shoulders, usually finished with soft, flowing ruffles or volants for a romantic touch.
Style Guideline:
Off-shoulder dresses are timeless summer favourites. They beautifully highlight the neck and shoulders – perfect for a seamless tan without strap lines. To carry the look into autumn or winter, simply layer a thin, plain turtleneck underneath for a chic seasonal twist.
Matching Accessories & Shoes:
Embrace a hint of Andalusian flair with natural accessories such as straw hats, raffia bags, and light beige flats. Let the neckline take centre stage – opt for bold statement earrings instead of necklaces. A waist belt complements the horizontal off-shoulder line, creating a flattering balance between the bodice and the flowing skirt.
Flapper dress
The flapper dress is the iconic silhouette of the roaring 1920s. Typically sleeveless, straight-cut and loosely fitted, it features a dropped waistline designed for maximum comfort and freedom of movement — a revolutionary design for its time. The relaxed shape is often enhanced with rich embellishments such as sequins, feathers, or fringe, giving it that unmistakable vintage glamour.
Style Guideline:
Keep accessories minimal – the dress itself is the statement piece. The key to an authentic flapper look lies in the fit: it should hang loosely around the hips without defining the waist. For the right straight-lined effect, choose a slightly larger size if needed.
Matching Accessories & Shoes:
Flat sandals or high pumps work beautifully with this style. For a true 1920s vibe, complement your look with classic accessories like embellished headbands, long satin gloves, or fringe shawls.
Cocktail dress
A cocktail dress is a short formal dress that is usually worn to cocktail parties or other social occasions such as receptions or important celebrations. It is usually made of elegant fabrics such as silk, taffeta or satin and is characterised by a classic feminine silhouette.
Style guideline:
The little sister of the evening gown is less formal and can also be worn during the day – but please not in a casual context. It is definitely ‘too much’ for shopping or brunch with friends.
Matching accessories & shoes:
A cocktail dress is already a real eye-catcher in itself, so accessories should be used sparingly. High-quality high heels and delicate jewellery made of precious metals are a perfect match, along with a clutch or micro bag. Stay away from large bags!
Cut-out dress
With a cut-out dress, parts of the fabric are removed to reveal the skin underneath. The cut-outs can be in different places on the dress, such as the back, shoulders, décolleté, hips or stomach. The slits in the dress give the look a sexy or edgy touch and are real eye-catchers.
Style guideline:
To ensure the look appears high-quality, you should not show too much skin. One cut-out is enough for the wow effect. For example, if you have a back cut-out, make sure the top is high-necked, and if you have a waist cut-out, make sure the skirt is at least midi length.
Matching accessories & shoes:
A cut-out dress does not need large accessories, as the sophisticated slit in the fabric is already the biggest eye-catcher. Minimalism is the order of the day: a small ring, a simple bracelet or high-quality hoop earrings complete the look. Choose your shoes according to the style of the dress: romantic, playful cut-out dresses call for delicate strappy heels, while sneakers or penny loafers go well with sporty styles.
Empire waist dress
The top of this fashion classic, which usually has a wide neckline, transitions into a dart that is gathered directly under the bust. From there, the girlishly romantic empire cut falls far to the knee or, in the long, classic version, to the ankle. Empire dresses first became popular in the early 19th century, and the cut is strongly based on the Greek tunics of antiquity. The empire cut is very flattering and draws the eye to the décolleté.
Style guideline:
Empire cuts can conceal the middle and lower body well, but be careful: the cut can also add bulk.
Matching accessories & shoes:
High heels visually elongate the body, as do long necklaces.
Sheath dress
With their clean lines and single piece of fabric, sheath dresses are the classic among mid-length dresses. The shift dress became very fashionable in the 1930s and was revived in the 1960s. Today, it is considered timeless, feminine and business-like and is one of the evergreens of the upmarket women's wardrobe. The shift dress is characterised by its figure-hugging fit and a collarless, often horizontal (boat neck) or semi-circular neckline. Sheath dresses are usually sleeveless or have very short sleeves and usually reach to the knee.
Style guideline:
Don't overload the sheath dress with too many accessories; instead, make a statement with the material of the dress. In the cold season, shift dresses in velvet or faux leather are real eye-catchers, while in summer, the shift cut looks enchanting in wild silk or jersey with stretch.
Matching accessories & shoes:
Pumps emphasise the serious business character, while ballerina flats are perfect when comfort is a must.
Shirt dress
In recent seasons, the shirt dress has become an indispensable part of designer collections. The cut is characterised by a classic blouse cut with a collar and button placket, which is extended straight down or slightly flared to any length. The button placket can be continuous or only extend to the waist.
Style guideline:
Shirt dresses are great everyday companions and suit almost every woman.
Matching accessories & shoes:
Sporty trainers or ankle-high boots are ideal. When it comes to jewellery, go for delicate, short necklaces that don't cover the button placket.
Hoodie dress
The hoodie dress is a sporty sweatshirt dress with a hood, usually made of cotton or jersey, essentially an elongated hoodie. Hoodie dresses are straight and wide cut and provide a cosy and comfortable everyday look. Many styles feature a typical kangaroo pocket as a patch pocket on the front of the dress or two side pockets.
Style guideline:
Is your hoodie dress too baggy? Take a wide waist belt and conjure up more silhouette in the look. This also creates a twist from sporty to casual-elegant.
Matching accessories & shoes:
Sneakers are, of course, the classic choice for the athleisure trend. Whether you go for chunky trainers or retro Chucks is entirely up to you. Add a sporty rucksack or a fanny pack worn crossbody over the shoulder – and your hoodie dress look is complete. Influencers show us how it's done: You can create a real style break with elegant over-the-knee boots and a sophisticated pouch bag with chain handles.
Kaftan dress
A kaftan dress is a loose-fitting, floor-length dress with long sleeves, whose shape originated in the Middle East and some African countries. It is characterised by its summery, flowing fabric, wide sleeves and straight, loose cut. Another characteristic feature is the V-shaped neckline. Kaftan dresses are versatile and are often worn as airy summer clothing with richly decorated embroidery, neckline borders or colourfully printed fabrics.
Style guideline:
It's all about the fabric! Kaftan dresses made of linen or cotton are too casual for elegant summer occasions, as are flat shoes. As a guest at a wedding or garden party, it is better to choose a kaftan dress made of silk or satin. Delicate shoes with heels take away the casual feel of the kaftan.
Matching accessories & shoes:
In a leisure context such as holidays and the beach, simply go barefoot or wear light espadrilles or toe sandals – sunglasses and a hat made of natural materials complete your look. You can enhance the oriental touch of the garment with gold bangles and hoop earrings.
Little black dress
A little black dress is a black, knee-length dress, usually in a sheath cut, which exudes a special elegance and can be worn for many decades thanks to its timelessness. The term ‘little black dress’ was first coined in the 1920s in a Vogue article about a design by Coco Chanel. The dress gained widespread fame in 1961 in Givenchy's version in the film ‘Breakfast at Tiffany's’. Since then, this historic design has been reinterpreted time and again by numerous designers.
Style guideline:
The little black dress is every woman's secret weapon and an essential part of any capsule wardrobe. It's worth spending a little extra on high-quality fabric and excellent workmanship – then you'll be able to enjoy your all-rounder for elegant occasions for a long time to come.
Matching accessories & shoes:
Pumps, a pearl necklace and matching pearl earrings are the classic styling choices for the little black dress and pay homage to Audrey Hepburn & Co. If you want to combine the little black dress in a more modern way, wear it with elegant suit trousers, e.g. in sand colours, or spice up the look with an extravagant brooch and leopard-print ankle boots.
Pinafore dress
The pinafore dress is a fashionable variation on sturdy dungarees, usually made from sturdy cotton and denim fabrics. The dress features a practical bib pocket on the chest, which offers space for small items. Pinafore dresses usually have adjustable straps to adjust the fit on the upper body, which are fastened with a braces clasp on the bib.
Style guideline:
It's better to buy one size larger! If the bib is tight across the chest or the skirt sits on the hips, the outfit quickly loses its casual look. You should also bear in mind that pinafore dresses are comfortable, practical leisure outfits and are not really suitable for elegant occasions.
Matching accessories & shoes:
Due to their open cut at the top, pinafore dresses are rarely worn without a top. The look is clean with a white basic T-shirt, summery and sexy with a short crop top, and rock chic with a band T-shirt and an open bra. In winter, simply slip on a warm turtleneck underneath and your look is ready for the cold season. Sneakers and brogues are the perfect match for a casual pinafore look, along with a cap and rucksack. The look is a little more elegant with ankle boots and a small shoulder bag.
Mermaid dress
The ‘I’ is similar to the ‘H’, but the I is significantly deeper than the model named after its protruding letter, usually reaching all the way to the floor. If the I-line does not end narrowly at the floor, but instead flares out from the middle of the shin in flounces or ruffles, it is referred to as a mermaid cut.
Style guideline:
Less is more. Straight dresses with flounces look best in a single colour.
Matching accessories & shoes:
The mermaid cut is an elegant and figure-hugging cut that goes very well with narrow, high-heeled shoes that elongate the leg. Stilettos, strappy sandals or peep-toe shoes add a seductive touch to the outfit and emphasise the feminine silhouette. Large bags are a no-go here – instead, choose a small clutch and minimal jewellery, such as sparkling earrings, a subtle necklace or a delicate headband. This enhances the style without distracting from the mermaid dress.
Halterneck dress
A halterneck dress, often referred to as a neckholder style, is characterised by straps that fasten around the neck, elegantly highlighting the shoulders. There are several variations in how the straps are positioned — from two loose ties knotted at the nape of the neck, to a U-shaped loop that slips over the head, or even high, fitted collars that wrap securely around the neck. What all halterneck designs share is an open back and beautifully exposed shoulders.
Style Guideline:
The halterneck dress draws attention to the shoulders and neckline — make sure to wear a suitable bra that stays invisible, such as a strapless or halterneck bra for extra support. This will keep the upper back area smooth and free of visible straps, allowing the clean lines of the dress to shine.
Matching Accessories & Shoes:
Halterneck dresses come in countless variations — from elegant evening gowns to casual beach styles. Because the neckline itself is the main feature, skip necklaces and opt instead for statement earrings or chic bangles. Depending on the fabric and cut, heeled sandals or flat slides will complete the look perfectly.
Oversized dress
Oversized dresses are characterised by a comfortable fit and a casual style that conveys a rather relaxed aesthetic. These voluminous dresses are usually boxy in cut, so they don't fit snugly to the body. Current looks are inspired by the baggy fashion of the 1980s and 90s and often have a slightly masculine touch.
Style guideline:
Oversized and oversized don't go well together. So always style your XL dress with a tighter piece, such as a slim-fit jacket or trendy faux leather leggings.
Matching accessories & shoes:
Make sure to incorporate shaping elements into your look. If you don't want to appear too voluminous, wear a waist belt, for example. Many oversized dresses already feature details such as flounces and darts, which take away the ‘baggy’ look. Delicate heeled shoes, such as delicate strappy heels, ensure that the body outline becomes narrower towards the bottom. This creates a great balance to the volume.
Princess dress
The princess dress is similar to the dresses we know from Disney films. It has a classic cut and is characterised by tapered lines that start under the arms and run across the waist, subtly diverging in the lower half. Princess dresses look truly magical and are therefore only suitable for very special occasions such as balls or weddings.
Style guideline:
Gowns are the queens of dresses. They need to be styled with great sensitivity, and the rule here is: less is more!
Matching accessories & shoes:
High heels are a must. Depending on the neckline, a necklace or chain can accentuate the dress. Earrings are also a good choice. Important: Be sure to choose high-quality materials and avoid cheap costume jewellery.
Bodycon dress
A bodycon dress – short for body-conscious – is a tight-fitting, figure-hugging style made from stretch fabrics such as jersey, lycra, or spandex. The cut follows the natural curves of the body and highlights the silhouette with precision. Defined entirely by its close fit, the bodycon dress comes in various versions – from sleeveless mini styles to long-sleeved midi designs.
Style Guideline:
Fit is everything when it comes to a bodycon dress. The style is designed to sit close to the body; choosing a size too large will completely alter the look and cause the fabric to hang instead of sculpt. Pay extra attention to your underwear: seamless panties and smooth T-shirt bras are must-haves to avoid visible lines. For a perfectly sleek shape, opt for discreet shapewear or a fitted slip underneath.
Matching Accessories & Shoes:
Bodycon dresses are the ultimate party staple – perfect for nights out and special events where you can go bold with your styling. For more formal occasions, balance the figure-hugging cut with subtle elegance: skip deep necklines or cut-outs and go for timeless colours like black, navy, or deep green. Closed-toe heels or classic pumps complete the look more tastefully than strappy sandals.
Bow-tie dress
A bow-tie dress is a high-necked dress with two long ribbons hanging from the collar – the bows. These dresses have a feminine and romantic look, especially when the bows are tied into a large bow. Bow dresses are usually long-sleeved and have a straight, classic tunic cut.
Style guideline:
Their timeless, classic attitude makes bow-tie dresses the perfect companion for weddings or business appointments.
Matching accessories & shoes:
Classic shoe styles such as pumps or ankle-high ankle boots go perfectly with delicate bow-tie dresses made of chiffon or satin. You can achieve the perfect style break by taking the sweetness out of the dress and combining it with chunky Doc Martens and a rocker-style leather jacket, for example.--
Strap Dress
A Strap Dress is any dress style with straps that run from the décolleté over the shoulders and end at the shoulder blades. The straps are sewn onto the dress and are not removable. Subtypes of the strap dress include the spaghetti strap dress with very thin straps and the slip dress – a simple, casual dress style usually made of satin with thin straps that you can just slip on.
Style guideline:
The sleeveless strap dress is a true summer classic and, in its cotton version, is one of the most popular beach dress styles ever.
Matching accessories & shoes:
Strap dresses can be made in different lengths and fits, from figure-hugging and short to loose and airy. It is therefore difficult to make recommendations for accessories and shoes. However, airy flats in summer and casual trainers for a shopping trip are always a safe bet with a strap dress.
Swing Dress
A swing dress is considered the wider and more fabric-rich variation of the A-line silhouette. The fitted shoulder section gently flares out towards the hem, often reaching below the knee, and is sometimes accentuated with darts or seams at the waist. Many swing dresses feature sleeves — sometimes with flowing or flared cuffs for a soft, feminine look.
Style Guideline:
Swing dresses are wonderfully versatile and can be styled in countless ways with different accessories.
Matching Accessories & Shoes:
For a casual look, pair your swing dress with a denim jacket and chunky sneakers. For a more elegant appearance, opt for pumps or delicate heeled sandals.
T-shirt dress
As we all know, this letter has already made fashion history in the realm of more informal clothing. The T-line dress is also the straight-cut extension of the T-shirt. Especially in the leisure sector, the loose-fitting T-shirt dress made of jersey or cotton is currently the ultimate; however, the casual cut with a round neckline also takes the edge off elegant dresses – a fashionable wink.
Style guideline:
T-shirt dresses are real all-rounders and should be in every wardrobe!
Matching accessories & shoes:
Flat or high – anything goes. The typical everyday look calls for trainers or lace-up boots. Throw on a leather or denim jacket – you can't get more casual than that!
Tunic dress
Tunic-cut dresses exude pure summer feeling. This is due to the airy, kaftan-like cut that flows loosely around the body. Tunics are wide-cut dresses with mostly mid-length, wide sleeves. Most tunic dresses end just above the knee. This summer staple often features embroidery or colourful patterns and suits every woman thanks to its loose cut.
Style guideline:
Tunic cuts are ideal for leisure and holiday wear and can be combined in many different ways.
Matching accessories & shoes:
Flat beach sandals or flip-flops go just as well as airy trainers or espadrilles; large straw hats and shopper bags enhance the casual holiday look.
Wrap dress
The wrap dress is a figure-flattering garment in which the two halves of the open front are laid over each other and fastened with a sewn-on belt or, less commonly, with one or more buttons. This casual dress originated in the 1970s and remains a perennial favourite to this day. Wrap dresses can have sleeves or be sleeveless, and are characterised by a V-neckline.
Style guideline:
Attention neckline! With a wrap dress, you can determine the depth of the neckline yourself.
Matching accessories & shoes:
Mid-height sandals or pumps go great with wrap dresses. The dress becomes casual with a denim or leather jacket. For a business look, pair it with a trench coat.
Find your perfect dress shape
Whether it's an A-line for swinging elegance, a shift dress for precise lines, a mermaid dress for red carpet drama or a shirt dress for everyday chic – the right type of dress will make your proportions and style shine. Pay attention to the material, length and neckline, combine accessories carefully and add one or two signature pieces as accents. This will create looks that you can wear for a long time – and that will be remembered.
