The 22 Best Slip Dresses That Are More Versatile Than You Think
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Slinky and sultry.
Byrdie / Kristin Kempa
Fact checked by Erika Reals
Once simply considered an additional layer of coverage or pajamas, we have ’90s fashion trailblazers like Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell to thank for elevating slip dresses from lingerie into streetwear, and designer brands such as Dior for creating the regal looks (hello, Princess Diana) that demand attention on red carpets today.
What makes the style so enduring is how it takes all the guesswork out of what to wear—the versatile clothing piece is genre-bending, season-defying, and one of the most reliable options in our closets. With their lightweight fabric and flattering cuts, if you find one that skims your body just right it’ll be your best friend throughout all four seasons, and your plus one to everything from weddings to work.
Still, though the concept of a slip dress may seem one-note, there are a dizzying array of possibilities out there featuring varying lengths and necklines and different materials. To guide you toward the right one, we relied on our personal shopping experience and help from an expert to uncover the best slip dresses.
Best Overall: Silk Maison Red Desire Slit Bias Cut Silk Slip Dress
It’s almost a requirement that Silk Maison makes a slip dresses roundup. Not only do they make high-quality silk dresses, but they also have a wide range of colors and sizes so that more people can access their simple but chic style. Snatch it up in any of the enchanting jewel tones available.
Price at time of publish: $239
Material: 100% mulberry silk | Size Range: XXS–3XL | Color Options: Sapphire, Burgundy, Copper, Lime +more
Best Budget: Vetior Adjustable Spaghetti Straps Long Cami Slip Dress
Amazon is a great marketplace to find cute and affordable garments, and this Long Cami Slip Dress from VETIOR is one of them. Available for less than $25 and with thousands of high ratings, there’s no doubt how great this dress is.
Price at time of publish: $23
Material: 100% modal | Size Range: S–XXL | Color Options: Black, Nude, White, Navy Blue
Best Designer: Rodarte Silk Satin Bias Dress with Lace Details
Marrying sexy and elegance in a way only Rodarte knows how to, we’re positive this lightweight silk fabric slip has a long life ahead of it. The fit alone is something to marvel at—the dress drapes dreamily across frames, staying fitted at the hips before flaring at the ankles to complete the quintessential flattering A-line cut.
In addition to the timeless silhouette, the longer length mirrors the sophisticated look of a cocktail gown, but the brand balances the style with an alluring chantilly lace trimmed cutout to save it from only being reserved for more formal occasions.
Price at time of publish: $1,595
Material: 100% silk | Size Range: 0–10 | Color Options: Black
Best Bridal: Reformation Ronda Silk Dress
If your bridal daydreams involve the romantic aesthetics of long tapered candles and soft twinkle lighting, we found the gown to complete your reverie. The asymmetrical cowl neck sits on one shoulder and hangs off the other to convey an effortless look, but we know the design has every intention of standing out. How could the creamy, satiny fabric that pools gorgeously at the ground in a floor-length style not draw every eye? Plus with adjustable spaghetti straps, you might be able to skip a trip to the tailor, making this a practical pick too.
Price at time of publish: $748
Material: 100% silk | Size Range: 0–12 | Color Options: Ivory, Serene, Praline
Best Midi: Lulus You're My Type Satin Jacquard Midi Slip Dress
With an embossed rose print and cowl neck, this midi dress hits the bingo card for everything we look for in a charming slip dress. Sweet as can be, we like that it also has a high slit and comes in six colors (we’re partial to the sweet, springy lavender hue), so it’ll suit any aesthetic or event. Whether you’re celebrating on a wedding dance floor in the Midnight Blue version or watching the sunset during a rooftop happy hour in the coordinated Rust Orange color, there’s an option for everyone.
Price at time of publish: $68
Material: 97% polyester, 3% spandex | Size Range: XS–XL | Color Options: Lavender, Midnight Blue, Sage Green +more
Related: The 28 Best Midi Dresses for Dinner Dates, Weddings, Park Picnics, and More
Best Cowl Neck: Fleur du Mal Cowl Neck Slip Dress
Of course, a Fleur du Mal piece had to make this list. This is a go-to brand for exceptional detailing, and their Cowl Neck Slip Dress has one of the most delicate silk cowl drapings that highlights the decolletage of the wearer.
Price at time of publish: $485
Material: 100% silk | Size Range: XS–L | Colors Options: Black, White
Best Asymmetrical: H&M Flounced Slip Dress
The never-ending appeal of this slinky slip dress starts with the asymmetrical cut hemline, which is not only a nice nod to its Y2K roots but is also super flattering. We imagine trotting all over town in the coquettish two-tiered ruffled hem that will look fantastic with strappy sandals or Cinderella heels. As a bonus, it’s offered in three colors—we have our sights set on recreating a monochromatic Barbie moment while sporting the shell-pink option.
Price at time of publish: $65
Material: 100% rayon | Size Range: XS–XXL | Color Options: Cream, Black, Light Pink
Best for Date Night: Norma Kamali Maria Mini Dress
Red may be the ubiquitous color for date night, but the fiery hue isn’t the only show-stopping quality about this Norma Kamali slip dress. The mini length is just short enough to be flirty without veering into the teeny, tiny territory of club wear and its satin finish gives it a sultry, enticing look. Paired with gold accessories, kitten heels, and a cashmere wrap we envision wearing this everywhere from art exhibit openings to jazz clubs.
Price at time of publish: $255
Material: 100% polyester | Size Range: XXS–XL | Color Options: Red
Best Maxi: LEIMERE Hampton Maxi Slip Dress
The LEIMERE Hampton Maxi Slip Dress just kisses the floor, making it a perfect length that’s still practical to walk in. You’ll look extremely put together in the sheath style of this dress, and you won’t trip over your dress while you’re out and about.
Price at time of publish: $88
Material: 50% modal, 25% cotton, 15% nylon, 10% cashmere | Size Range: XS–L |
Color Options: Olive, Marshmallow
Related: The 16 Best Maxi Dresses We Can't Stop Thinking About, from Lulus to Reformation
Best Cutout: Significant Other Jacy Dress
The artful cutouts of this dress are thoughtfully placed under the bust and in the back, so no matter what angle someone captures you in, there’s a sneaky slit making an appearance. Though the sweet pale yellow hue is certainly the color du jour for clothing, and all things beauty, we think its ankle-length and stunning satin fabric makes it a style that will outlast any trend.
Price at time of publish: $114
Material: 62% viscose, 38% polyester; 97% polyester, 3% elastane lining | Size Range: XS–L | Color Options: Blue
Best Wide Strap: ASTR the Label Makenna Dress
There will always be a time and place for slinky spaghetti straps, but sometimes you need an option for the office or the support provided by wider straps. We are particularly fond of this ASTR dress for the universal cerulean blue hue that makes it easy to match with almost anything. The midi length is ideal for more formula situations, however, we suggest punching up the longer length with some stilettos, silver accessories, and a glossy lip.
Price at time of publish: $114
Material: 100% viscose; 100% polyester lining | Size Range: XS–L | Color Options: Blue
Best Strapless: Urban Outfitters Rina Satin Strapless Midi Dress
Though simple in theory, we’ll always sing the praises of a strapless dress. By accentuating collar bones and leaving shoulders naked, they’re the ultimate blueprint behind an array of looks. Take this satin strapless midi, for example: Throw on a chunky necklace and step into your rattan sandals for a trip somewhere sunny, or add cake stand heels and layer a mesh long-sleeved under it for a more glamorous look.
Price at time of publish: $69
Material: 97% viscose, 35% spandex | Size Range: XS–XL | Color Options: Dark Green, Pink, Black, Brown
Best Shapewear: SKIMS Soft Lounge Long Slip Dress
It’s no surprise that this dress has a cult following. From reality star-turned-entrepreneur Kim Kardashian, the SKIMS Soft Lounge Long Slip Dress has thousands of five-star reviews raving about both its comfort and effortless style.
Price at time of publish: $78
Material: 91% modal, 9% spandex | Size Range: XXS–4X | Color Options: Onyx, Heather Grey, Oxide, Marble, Camel
Best Silk: Lily Silk the Min Dress
Simply put, we’re living in the dress until further notice—and since it's made from premium, long-lasting mulberry silk, that won’t be an issue. Though it falls on frames in a “can’t-be-bothered” way, the vintage champagne color and knee-length give it a near-regal feel. Or perhaps it's the cap sleeves and empire-like waistline that lend themselves to Phoebe Bridgerton-esque vibes. Either way, the versatile style gives you just as much permission to wear it to black-tie affairs as it does for a workday.
Price at time of publish: $299
Material: 100% silk | Size Range: 2–12 | Color Options: Taupe
Best Knit: Enza Costa Silk Knit Essential Dress
The power that an LBD holds is unmatched and this dress takes it a step further by incorporating comfortable knit jersey fabric and a captivating, body-hugging silhouette. Add some oval sunglasses, black pumps, and a wide-brimmed hat and suddenly we have a present-day “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” moment on our hands. However, with some straw accessories and low mules, the white color would also be ideal for any number of summer soirées.
Price at time of publish: $195
Material: 87% viscose, 10% silk, 3% LYCRA® | Size Range: XS–XL | Color Options: Black, white
Best LBD: Ciao Lucia Sabina Dress
It only makes sense to have a little black dress version of a slip dress in your closet. For spur-of-the-moment events, when you feel that you just don’t have anything to wear, this is a great option to wear by itself or with layers depending on the event or your mood.
Price at time of publish: $305
Material: 51% nylon, 49% LYCRA® | Size Range: XS–XL | Color Options: Black
Best Printed: ASTR The Label Gaia Floral Midi Dress
To shake up the ordinary slip dress, you should consider a dress with a pattern. The Gaia Floral Midi Dress comes in several patterns and colorways, so you can easily switch up your look while keeping the slip dress look and feel that you love.
Price at time of publish: $98
Material: 100% polyester | Size Range: XS–XL | Colors Options: Blush Orange Floral, Yellow Teal Multi, Blue Rust Floral, Sage Multi, Black-Gold Floral +more
Best for Special Occasions: Hanifa Lola Gown
Hanifa is a brand that proves that formal wear doesn’t have to be boring. That’s why I had to add the Lola Gown. In an orange and white zebra print with an asymmetrical cowl neckline, this slip dress brings the drama and will make you the main event of the function.
Price at time of publish: $299
Material: Satin | Size Range: XS–3X | Colors Options: Blaze/White
Best Casual: Lunya Washable Silk Slip Dress
Athleisure gets so much credit as clothing that knows no boundaries, but we’re here to make the case that pajamas belong outside the bedroom too. Case in point: this Lunya slip. Between its fluid fit and subtle side slit, if the “effortless cool girl” trope could be condensed to a single garment we’d attribute it to this dress. Slip into your sandal slides and kick back at cocktail hour or layer a thin T-shirt under it for an elevated grocery store run. We also adore all of the practical features of this dress like the breathable, thermoregulated material, adjustable straps, and pockets.
Price at time of publish: $198
Material: 100% mulberry silk | Size Range: XS–XL | Color Options: Tranquil White/Immersed Black, Otium Tan/Immersed Black, Immersed Black/Otium Tan, Deep Blue/Immersed Black +more
Best for Layering: Quince 100% Washable Silk Slip Dress
Made to work and play in, between the body-skimming silhouette, midi length, and seven neutral colors (and one wild dark purple hue for the more adventurous among us), this dress has “capsule wardrobe” written all over it. The scoop V-neckline and adjustable straps are accommodating to anything you layer under it, whether that’s a thin T-shirt or a long-sleeved turtle neck. Additionally, there’s no fear of overheating when you decide to pile on a chunky sweater or cropped motorcycle jacket as it's made from thermoregulated, lightweight silk material.
Price at time of publish: $80
Material: 100% mulberry silk | Size Range: XS–XL | Color Options: Navy, Moss Green, Aubergine, Champagne, Copper Brown +more
Related: 10 Capsule Wardrobe Essentials for Summer 2023, According to Fashion Experts
Best Corset-Style: House of CB Myrna Satin Corset Midi Dress
The verdict is in: Corsets are here to stay, just ask Dua Lipa or Zendaya, so what better way to get behind the trend than by incorporating it into another enduring style? In addition to the waist-defining fit, the knee-length dress impresses us with delightful details like the cascading cowl neckline and luxurious, regal satin fabric. And if you’re worried about the logistics behind exposing so much skin, know the dress offers plenty of support with an underwire, internal boning, and sturdy adjustable straps.
Price at time of publish: $269
Material: Varies | Size Range: XS–L | Color Options: Olive, Tangerine, Rose
Best for Festivals: Free People Bali Flower Fields Maxi Slip
Perhaps the one rule of festival dressing is that it should make a statement and we can’t fathom going unnoticed swaying in this sheer slip. In a true acknowledgment of the ’70s style, it features floral printed tie straps, a breezy silhouette, and embroidery across the transparent material. Despite everything going on, the dress still allows you to create a look that’s wholly your own by laying a colorful bodysuit, bathing suit, or matching lingerie set under it.
Price at time of publish: $198
Material: 100% polyester | Size Range: XS–XL | Color Options: Lilac Combo
Final Verdict
For a high-quality, versatile dress that’ll be in your closet forever, you can’t beat the impeccable design of the Silk Maison slip dress—plus it’s offered in six colors so we know there’s unlimited potential for where you’ll wear it. If you’re in the market for something a bit more whimsical you can’t go wrong with Free People’s Bali Flower Fields Maxi Slip that’ll pair perfectly with any music set.
Meet the Expert
Stephanie Jang is a visual merchandiser who has worked with brands like Kate Spade New York and Coach.
What to Look for When Buying Slip Dresses
Material
While there are plenty of materials out there for slip dresses, Jang suggests choosing a silk dress if you're able to. “Silk will last longer and is worth the investment,” she says. Silk is also thermoregulating, so you can wear it year-round, making the cost per wear even more approachable.
If a silk dress isn't in your budget, look into TENCEL™ lyocell, a material made from tree pulp. It can be a more eco-friendly option and, depending on the blend, can have the same look and feel as silk.
Occasion
The true day-to-night dress, one of the best aspects of a slip dress is how adaptable they are to any situation, but there are certain styles you’ll get more wear out of. A midi or full-length option in a neutral solid color, such as Enza Costa's Silk Knit Essential Dress, is also a great place to start your slip dress journey because it can be worn to practically any occasion with a few styling adjustments. The universal length and color make for the perfect blank canvas—layer it with turtlenecks and tees, swap sneakers for heels, and pile it with accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a slip dress?
You can get an idea of what a slip dress is from its name alone. Like a slip that you’d wear under your outer clothes, a slip dress lightly skims your body and is often contoured to cling to your natural shape. Because of its slip origin, many brands continue to make slip dresses in thinner, breathable fabrics.
Are all slip dresses silky?
Not all slip dresses are silky. While silky and satiny fabrics are common materials used for slip dresses, they’re not a necessity. Plenty of slip dresses are made from crepe, leather, cotton, rayon, and even denim. If a silky texture doesn’t suit you, then have no worries. There are so many other fabric options within the slip dress realm.
Can you wear a slip dress on its own?
It’s up to you how you want to wear your slip dress. The style is so versatile that there are endless options and no wrong way to wear it. “The beauty of a slip dress is that it can be dressed up or down,” Jang says. “Whether it can be worn under another dress for layering purposes or on its own, it’s to the person’s preference.”
How do you style a slip dress for each season?
Slip dresses are a great investment because you can wear them year-round, depending on how you style them. Jang even broke down some styling ideas for your slip dresses by season below.
Winter: Layer a midi or maxi slip dress over a turtleneck. Finish the look with knee-high boots and a long teddy coat.
Spring: Pair a midi slip dress with a blazer and classic white sneakers.
Summer: Wear a mini slip dress with gold accessories and pair it with strappy sandals.
Fall: Team a midi slip with a cardigan and a long trench coat, then round out the look with a pair of knee-high boots.
Why Trust Byrdie
Irene Richardson updated this article. She writes on fashion and beauty for Byrdie, InStyle, Brides, and Travel + Leisure.
Byrdie contributor Mallori Albright has six years of experience writing fashion and beauty content. Her work is also in Marie Claire and NYLON.
