The 30 Best Slip Dresses and How to Style Them in 2024
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, WWD may receive an affiliate commission.
Updated January 24th, 2024: This article on the best slip dresses was updated with 2024 runway and street style trends and new product picks for the spring season ahead.
More from WWD
Helen Mirren's Comfy Cariuma Shoes Are 50% off During Today's Secret Sale
This Amazon Bodysuit With 17,000 Five-Star Reviews Is on Sale for Its Lowest Price Ever
Amazon Is Having a Secret Sale on Celebrity-Loved Wolford Tights Today
Few dress styles lend themselves to infinite occasions, layering ideas, and year-round use, and the ‘90s-inspired slip dress is perhaps the chicest of them all. Slip dresses are timeless and versatile frocks, on par with the best shirt dresses and sweater dresses. The style evokes an effortlessly elegant attitude, especially when styled with simplicity in mind. The essential style not only appears uncomplicated, but functions as so — as the name suggests, you can simply slip it on and go.
Slip dresses can be the best cocktail dress for evening events, wedding guest dresses, work dresses, or easy-breezy summer dresses. They also make for sophisticated dresses for chilly weather when layered with cozy sweaters, blazers, or leather jackets, and pair perfectly with all kinds of footwear, from combat boots, kitten heels, Mary Jane shoes, and low-profile white sneakers. They offer boundless inspiration to style for ‘90s sentiments with items you already own, such as layered atop a white T-shirt or styled with shiny minimalist jewelry. They also bring a new life to sexy, lacey, slinky, and sheer date night lingerie that you’d otherwise only reserve for the bedroom.
We’re seeing new slip dress styles all over the runways for spring 2024, and our favorite fashion retailers are delivering loads of sleek options from top brands to invest in. Keep reading for expert tips, curated product picks, styling inspiration for the best slip dresses available now, from mini to maxi dresses, asymmetrical sleeves, modern cutouts, flattering seams, and much more.
The ’90s Slip Dress Trend
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 2024
Best Affordable: The Drop Darcy Mini Slip Dress
Best Casual: Dôen Long Slip Dress
Best Sequin: The Drop Sequin Slip Dress
Best for Under Dresses: Commando Debutante Long Slip
Best for Weddings: Bardot Carlotta Slip Dress
Best Mini: Gauge81 Omura Dress
Best Midi: Vince Satin Midi Slip Dress
Best Lingerie: Skims Woven Shine Lace Long Dress
Best White: Maison Essentiele Asymmetrical Maxi Slip Dress
Best Metallic: Rotate Birger Christensen Sidney Metallic Stretch-Satin Mini Dress
Best Minimalist: Róhe Satin Maxi Dress
Best ‘90s-Inspired: Paris Georgia Cam Satin Midi Slip Dress
(Photographed by John Aquino/WWD/Penske Media)
Own a piece of fashion history by heading to the WWD Store where you can purchase chic and inspiring archival photo prints.
Related:
Best Lace Dresses
Best Sequin Dresses
Best Faux Fur Coats
BEST AFFORDABLE SLIP DRESS
The Drop Darcy Mini Slip Dress
Size range: XXS to 5XL
Colorways: Pink, black, silver, green, blue, leopard
Fabrics: 95% polyester, 5% elastane
Retailer availability: Amazon
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$44.90
If you’re in the market for a shorter slip, The Drop’s got your covered with the Darcy Mini Slip Dress. It has adjustable straps and a unique crisscross tie closure in the back. This versatile style is ideal from transitioning to from day to night. All you have to do is swap your white sneakers with fun pumps and you’re off to the races.
What testers say: “This is a beautiful dress. It looks more expensive than it is. The tie in the back is really fun and different.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $44.90
Skims Soft Lounge Long Slip Dress
Size range: XXS to 4X
Colorways: Black, white, gray, pink, green, beige, brown, and more
Fabrics: 91% modal, 9% spandex
Retailer availability: Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, Skims
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
Skims Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$39.78 $78 49% off
$38.97 $78 50% off
$80
The Soft Lounge Long Slip Dress from Skims is one of the most coveted dresses to go viral on TikTok, with over 823 million views. It’s famed for its glove-like fit that seamlessly flatters your curves in super soft fabric that doesn’t constrict. This versatile slip dress can easily be dressed up or down and can be worn to anything from a fancy date night, walk in the park, or even as a comfy nightgown.
Editor testing and review notes: “I own three Skims slip dresses, and you can find me wearing one of them nearly any day I’m working from home, and on the weekends under a chunky sweater or a leather jacket. They’re supremely stretchy and form-fitting in a flattering way, and they don’t pill or fade with multiple wash and dry cycles.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $139.90
Tsher Sleeveless Dress
Size: XS-XL
Color: Rust, Black, Blue, Beige and 34 others.
Material: Polyester
Retailer availability: Amazon
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$39.99
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 testers 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.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $39.99
J.Crew Gwyneth Slip Dress
Size range: 00 to 24
Colorways: Champagne, black, green, and polka dot
Fabrics: 100% polyester.
Retailer availability: J.Crew
$98
J.Crew’s Gwyneth Slip Dress in this “luster charmeuse” champagne colorway serves as a simple slip that can play from night to day. The ’90s-inspired maxi silhouette is made of breathable satin that softly drapes off the body in a loose and flattering fit. Wear it as a wedding guest dress with pumps or as a comfy brunch outfit with loafers or laid-back dad shoes.
Editor testing and review notes: “This J. Crew slip dress is a favorite when I’m feeling a little bloated or don’t want to wear something so form fitting. It falls beautifully, accentuating my waist without feeling skin-tight. The adjustable straps allow me to adjust coverage as needed, too.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $98
BEST RED SLIP DRESS
Fleur du Mal Satin Keyhole Slip Midi-Dress
Size range: XS to L
Colorways: Red, black, blue
Fabrics: 97% polyester, 3% spandex
Interesting notes: Made with 97% recycled materials
Retailer availability: Saks Fifth Avenue, FWRD, Fleur Du Mal
Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
FWRD Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$295
$295
The Keyhole Slip Midi-Dress from Fleur du Mal adds a sexy twist to the classic slip silhouette. Available in shiny red, nighttime blue, and classic black, this gown-like dress will spark so many compliments while you’re out on the town and attending dressy events. It’s woven with buttery-smooth satin, with a sweetheart neckline, minimal straps, and a peek-a-boo keyhole cutout at the bust.
Price upon publish date of this article: $295
Free People Smock About It Slip Dress
Size range: XS to XL
Colorways: Blue, white, black
Fabrics: 100% polyester
Retailer availability: Free People
Free People Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
$29.95 $98 69% off
The Smock About It Slip Dress from Free People seamlessly slips right into this season’s sheer trend. At a maxi-length hem, this slip features flattering smocking throughout the bodice, scoop neckline and back, and feminine ruffle trims. Toss it over a bathing suit as a chic vacay cover-up or layer it over a bodysuit in a playful cottage-core ensemble.
Price upon publish date of this article: $29.95
BEST CASUAL SLIP DRESS
Dôen Long Slip Dress
Size: XXS-XXL
Color: Umber, Conch, Sand Dollar, Carob, Black
Material: Viscose
Retailer availability: Dôen
$68
This elegant slip dress from Dôen 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.
Price upon publish date of this article: $68
BEST SEQUIN SLIP DRESS
The Drop Sequin Slip Dress
Size: XXS-5X
Color: Black, Gold, Pewter, Silver
Material: Polyester
Retailer availability: Amazon
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$59.90
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 testers say: “I wore it for my anniversary and I received compliments from literally everybody!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $59.90
BEST SLIP FOR UNDER DRESSES
Commando Debutante Long Slip
Size: S/M, M/L
Color: Black, Beige
Material: Nylon/Spandex
Retailer availability: Bloomingdales, Commando
Bloomingdale’s Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$138
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 testers say: “This dress is so absolutely flattering, it looks good on its own & under everything.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $138
BEST SLIP DRESS FOR WEDDINGS
Bardot Carlotta Slip Dress
Size: XS-L
Color: Black, Fern
Material: 100% Viscose
Retailer availability: Revolve
Revolve Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$118 $129 9% off
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.
Price upon publish date of this article: $118
Everlane The Satin Racerback Slip Dress
Size range: 00 to 16
Colorways: Pink, black, print
Fabrics: 100% viscose
Retailer availability: Everlane
Everlane Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
$41 $138 70% off
Slip dresses can come in high necklines, too, and can even look elongating and flattering for those who don’t prefer to show a bare chest. Everlane’s midi dress features a racerback cut, with a back slit and button closure for comfort that looks understated. Plus, the brand’s specialty viscose, which gives the dress a satin finish, is responsibly sourced and produced.
Price upon publish date of this article: $41
BEST MINI SLIP DRESS
Gauge81 Omura Dress
Size range: XS to L
Colorways: Black
Fabrics: 100% silk
Retailer availability: FWRD
FWRD Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$173 $555 69% off
$261 $522 50% off
Gauge81’s Omura dress applies a shorter, sculptural twist to the classic slip silhouette. The silky mini dress is held up by a simple halter strap, which allows for the neckline and low back to drape gently over the body. The hem of this dress is ideal for elongating the legs, so style it with strappy heels, wedge sandals, or easy sling-backs for an illusion of additional inches.
Price upon publish date of this article: $173
Silk Laundry Scoop Neck Dress
Size range: XS to XL
Colorways: Navy, beige, black
Fabrics: 100% 16 momme silk
Retailer availability: Silk Laundry
$325
The Scoop Neck Dress from Silk Laundry cues elements of ease. Thick straps and a scoop neckline provide supreme coverage and comfort, while glossy silk satin feels opulent against the skin. The frills-free midi silhouette is simply chic, and pairs beautifully with minimalist bags and natural nude lips.
Price upon publish date of this article: $325
BEST MIDI DRESS
Vince Satin Midi Slip Dress
Size range: XXS to XL
Colorways: Black, blue
Fabrics: 100% acetate
Retailer availability: Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s, Bergdorf Goodman
Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
Bergdorf Goodman Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
Bloomingdale’s Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$325
$295
It doesn’t get more understated than Vince’s Satin Midi Slip Dress. With a soft scoop neckline, dainty straps, and flowy fabric, it provides the perfect combination of sleek style and comfort. Its opulent sheen will have you shining from night to day, and the roomy cut is flattering on all body types.
Price upon publish date of this article: $325
Reformation Parma Silk Dress
Sizes: XS-L
Color: Lipstick, Night Garden, Rose Garden
Material: 82% rayon, 18% silk
Retailer availability: Reformation
$348
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.
Price upon publish date of this article: $348
Sleeper Net Sustain Boheme Feather-Trimmed Satin Chemise
Size: XS-XL
Color: Black, Baby Pink, Blue
Material: 100% rayon; trim: 100% feathers (Ostrich)
Retailer availability: Net-A-Porter
Net-a-Porter Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
$175 $350 50% off
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.
Price upon publish date of this article: $175
Astr the Label Embellished Sheer Mesh Maxi Slipdress
Size range: XS to L
Colorways: Black
Fabrics: 100% silk
Retailer availability: Nordstrom
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$119
Astr the Label’s Embellished Sheer Mesh Maxi Slipdress is practically begging to be worn on the dance floor. Rhinestone-adorned mesh overlays a simple black tank dress in a clever style that feels both fun and sophisticated. Simply slip it over you’re head and you’ll be shining like a mirror ball.
Price upon publish date of this article: $119
BEST LINGERIE SLIP DRESS
Skims Woven Shine Lace Long Dress
Size range: XXS to 4XL
Colorways: Black
Fabrics: 92% polyester, 8% spandex
Retailer availability: Skims
Skims Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$108
Skims gets all the (deserved) glory for its bestselling lounge slip, but the brand’s lingerie edit is not one to sleep on. The Woven Shine Lace Long Dress is the ultimate black slip dress that can play as a glamorous gown, casual statement, or a sexy nightgown. With a high slit, lace trims, rosette detailing, and adjustable tie-straps, this dress will leave you feeling like a million bucks.
Price upon publish date of this article: $108
BEST WHITE SLIP DRESS
Maison Essentiele Asymmetrical Maxi Slip Dress
Size range: XS to XL
Colorways: Ivory, black, blue, teal, pink
Fabrics: 100% silk
Retailer availability: Shopbop, Farfetch
Shopbop Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 5/5 stars
Farfetch Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.1/5 stars
$243 $405 40% off
$93 $310 70% off
This stunning dress from Maison Essentiele seamlessly plays into current and upcoming asymmetrical trends, while still maintaining the same timeless attitude the slip dress is beloved for. For this maxi, a single, adjustable strap holds up the entire frock, which widens at the bottom of the skirt for free, flowy movement.
Price upon publish date of this article: $243
Jil Sander V-Neck Slip Mini Dress
Size range: XS to L
Colorways: Black
Fabrics: 74% polyamide, 26% elastane
Retailer availability: Ssense, Farfetch
Ssense Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Farfetch Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.1/5 stars
$159
$76 $165 54% off
Jil Sander exemplified the prime of ’90s minimalism, so if you’re looking to snag a slip dress, it’s best to get it from the source. This mini slip dress is a no-frills wardrobe staple in the best way, with a flattering cut that evokes a subtly chic aura. It’s a great investment piece because it offers a blank canvas for boundless accessorizing — whether your mood calls for a trendy shoulder bag or effortless straw bag, to modern mules or ankle boots.
Price upon publish date of this article: $243
Nicholas Sage Lace Trim Slip Dress
Size range: 0 to 8
Colorways: Boysenberry
Fabrics: 72% acetate, 28% polyester
Retailer availability: FWRD
FWRD Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$545
This satin slip is date-night ready in moody purple and black lace trims. It’s fully lined, has adjustable straps, and closes on the side in lingerie-inspired side button loop colors. A flattering line cuts diagonally from the waist to the high thigh slit, creating an illusion of long legs for days.
Price upon publish date of this article: $545
BEST METALLIC SLIP DRESS
Rotate Birger Christensen Sidney Metallic Stretch-Satin Mini Dress
Size range: 2 to 14
Colorways: Silver
Fabrics: 97% polyester, 3% elastane
Retailer availability: Net-a-Porter
Net-a-Porter Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
$210
Metallic finishes is one of the biggest trends right now, from Nike sneakers, handbags, and even gleaming gowns. This mini dress from Rotate Birger Christensen gives all the shine in a flirty fit, with moveable stretch satin, an effortless cowl neckline, and “pin-thin” strapping, according to the brand. Go all-out chrome with matching accessories, or let it shine alone against black boots and a leather jacket.
Price upon publish date of this article: $210
Secret Mission Rebel Mini Silk Lace Slip Dress
Size range: XS to L
Colorways: Black
Fabrics: 100% silk
Retailer availability: Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman
Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
Bergdorf Goodman Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
$385.50
$386
This little black dress from Secret Mission features lace panelling and cutouts that we’ve seen all over the runways, from Stella McCartney to Rodarte. It has built-in underwire bra cups and adjustable straps for a supportive fit, all while being supremely versatile for special occasions that call for high-quality silk.
Price upon publish date of this article: $386
Olivia Von Halle Zoya Fringed Silk-Satin Nightdress
Size range: XS to XL
Colorways: Light blue, green, orange, black, pink, and white
Fabrics: 100% 19 momme silk and polyester fringing
Retailer availability: Net-a-Porter, Neiman Marcus, Olivia Von Halle
Net-a-Porter Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
Neiman Marcus Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$298 $745 60% off
$355 $745 52% off
Our editors adore Olivia Von Halle for its luxuriously soft momme silk. The Zoya gown brings a little fringe in the mix with long tassels that start at the knee, and fall like a swinging curtain to a midi hem. It shines, it twirls, and brings the fun from day to night — style it with a silver handbag and you’ll be the life of the party.
Price upon publish date of this article: $298
Mirror Palais Underwire Slip Dress
Size range: XS to L
Colorways: Brown
Fabrics: 100% silk
Retailer availability: FWRD
FWRD Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$695
Mirror Palais is a cult-favorite brand for ethereal, feminine gowns, and this underwire slip offers all the fantasy in one ultra-mini design. Made of 100 percent silk, this number supports the bust in unpadded underwire cups and flows down to the top of the thigh. It’s a style reminiscent of one worn by Olivia Rodrigo in black recently, which she styled with white crew socks and Dr. Marten loafers for edgy contrast.
Price upon publish date of this article: $695
BEST MINIMALIST SLIP DRESS
Róhe Satin Maxi Dress
Size range: 2 to 12
Colorways: Light blue
Fabrics: 100% viscose
Retailer availability: Net-a-Porter, Farfetch, Shopbop
Net-a-Porter Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
Farfetch Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.1/5 stars
Shopbop Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 5/5 stars
$445
$413
$445
For a sweetly simple slip dress that doesn’t feel too boring, we’re eyeing Róhe’s Satin Maxi Dress. The design is purely minimalist and elegant, with skin-skimming satin, thin tie-straps, and fuss-free draping. Since it’s without all the bells and whistles, it’s incredibly versatile. Layer it atop a turtleneck in the winter, over t-shirts for spring, or as an effortless ensemble on hot summer days.
Price upon publish date of this article: $445
Staud Ashanti Dress
Size range: XS to XL
Colorways: Red
Fabrics: 76% acetate, 24% polyester
Retailer availability: Shopbop, Saks Fifth Avenue, FWRD
Shopbop Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 5/5 stars
Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
FWRD Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$495
$495
$495
Necklines are falling off-kilter for spring 2024, so, combined with the raging red color trends, we’ve got heart eyes for Staud’s Ashanti Dress. Made of non-stretch charmeuse, this shiny slip features a one-shoulder draped neckline and flattering bias cut at the skirt for elegant flair.
Price upon publish date of this article: $495
Acne Studios Open Back Asymmetric Ruffled Chiffon Dress
Size range: 2 to 12
Colorways: Brown, black
Fabrics: 100% polyester
Retailer availability: Net-a-Porter, Ssense, Shopbop
Net-a-Porter Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
Ssense Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Shopbop Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 5/5 stars
$800
$750
$800
Acne Studios offers a gauzy take on the slip, which is a major fabrication trend for spring 2024. Asymmetrical draping, chiffon ruffles, and an open self-tie back define this dress, with a midi hem that leaves room for flashing your best heels and boots.
Price upon publish date of this article: $800
L'Agence Jet Chain Strap Gown
Size range: 00 to 18
Colorways: Black
Fabrics: 100% silk
Retailer availability: Saks Fifth Avenue, Shopbop, Revolve
Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
Shopbop Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 5/5 stars
Revolve Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$695
$417 $695 40% off
$452 $695 35% off
This is more than your basic black slip dress. Besides shiny silk formed into V-neckline and maxi hem, this gown from L’Agence is contrasted with thick, chain-link straps that add a flash of edgy hardware. Skip the jewelry with this one, and let the unexpected detail do all the talking.
Price upon publish date of this article: $417
BEST '90S SLIP
Paris Georgia Cam Satin Midi Slip Dress
Size range: XS to XL
Colorways: Green
Fabrics: 75% nylon, 25% viscose
Retailer availability: Moda Operandi
$790
Paris Georgia’s Cam Satin Midi Slip Dress evokes all the elegant simplicity of the ’90s in a fresh, spring green hue. Its streamlined column silhouette, square neckline, and camisole cut is lightweight and flattering. A contrast hem and organic-looking ruffle detailing at the back makes this midi oh-so-sophisticated.
Price upon publish date of this article: $790
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 warmer climates). 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 2024
Spring 2024 is all about silky sheaths and reinvented classics. We’ve recently seen the timeless slip style embraced by It-girls from day to night, whether on Hailey Bieber in a Barbie pink dress for date night, on Emily Ratajkowski in liquid-looking bronze in New York City, or in an itty-bitty mini style on Olivia Rodrigo, which she dressed down with gym socks and chunky loafers. Alexa Chung styled a green and white Rodarte lace slip with a long leather jacket, while Kim Kardashian kept it simple and sexy in pearl-white John Galliano.
Romance: Flowy, lacey, and flouncey slip dresses colored the runways of Gucci, Versace, and Altuzzara for spring 2024. Rodarte maintained traditional romantic elements of lingerie-turned-gowns with soft ruffle silhouettes, maximalist lace, and 3D rosettes, while Alexander McQueen took a literal approach with screen-printed rose buds.
High shine: Last season, at Gabriela Hearst and Prada’s spring 2023 shows, we saw the wardrobe staple reissued with sheeny metallics, and the trend has forwarded through to Schiaparelli and Louis Vuitton’s light-catching collections for spring 2024 — from glossy silk to reflective striping and piping. Chanel has also embraced shiny finishings on slips in past seasons, whether in crystallized straps or logo embossing.
Asymmetrical necklines: Square-framed décolletés and subtle spaghetti straps may come to mind when you think “slip dress,” but designs from Coperni to Victoria Beckham are reimagining the silhouette with one-shoulder sleeves, high necklines, and geometric or off-kilter necklines.
Sheer fabrics: See-through sheaths, gauzy mesh, and angelic fabrications are taking center stage on slinky slips for spring. We saw a bountiful amount of transparent layering from designers like Chanel, Tom Ford, Givenchy, Stella McCartney, and Sportmax on the runways for the upcoming season.
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.
How We Selected The Best Slip Dresses
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
In order to curate the best slip dresses of 2024, we conducted wide market research by studying designer runways, fashion retailer selections, seasonal trends, and customer review comparisons. We selected slip dresses based on key features such as style, fabric, fit, function, size availability, and overall retailer availability. We also incorporated our own product testing to compile this shopping guide for the best slip dresses. Learn more about us here.
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.
Meet the Authors
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.
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes shopping content across fashion, beauty, footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Cigliano received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. She is currently based in New York City. Cigliano updated this best slip dress shopping guide in 2024 for the most current trends and fresh styles available to shop now. She loves shopping simple slip dresses, whether vintage or new, to layer under leather jackets and pair with chunky boots.
Sign up for WWD's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
