Don’t you wish we had a time capsule that could take us back in time? Well, we do have something that comes close to it. Fashion makes it possible to travel through the decades passed without even requiring a time travel machine. In fact, these days we’re going back to the coolest decade marked by the pop culture domination.
Yes, I’m talking about the iconic ‘90s, with their flannel button-down shirts, bucket hats, capri pants, music bands and sports T-shirts, cardigans, thick headbands, and hair clips. Some would call it a decade of weird fashion, but the fact it’s been making a huge comeback recently means there was something stylish about it all along. And we want more of it!
One of these things is definitely the delicate and timeless satin slip dress that has easily turned into a wardrobe staple. Much like in the ‘90s babes, most girls today who are into glamour without wasting too much effort, or paying for it with their comfort, swear by this kind of fashion piece. And so should you! If anything, it’s proof that it’s timeless as it can outlive trends. It can also be teamed up with your evolving taste over the years.
First Off, What Is a Slip Dress?
It’s a dress that resembles an underslip or night gown, kind of like an undergarment with spaghetti straps. It’s made from thin and sheer fabric, most often sensual satin and silk, or low-maintenance synthetics like polyester and rayon. A slip dress is supposed to skim the body – it should be neither being too baggy nor too fitted.
Since the era of the ‘90s was all about experimenting and going outside the norm, what used to be an undergarment transformed into elegant outer wear for women who wanted to look fabulous with less, taking bedroom chic looks to the streets. It’s the kind of look that’s sexy yet understated and that’s what makes us want more of it. Move over LBD!
Not surprisingly, the versatile silk and satin slip dress options today are so beloved by many considering the focus on minimalism our fashion has been geared towards in the last decade. What changed from the classic midi length design of the ‘90s however is the variety in lengths.
I don’t need to explain why you need it in your wardrobe, in whichever length, colour, pattern, fabric, or design you choose. It’s fun, it’s flirty, it’s body flattering and it’s pretty straightforward – you can incorporate it on any occasion and in any wardrobe, and that’s where its magic lies. Layer it up or wear it on its own as a standalone piece, it’s all up to you!
How to Style a Slip Dress and Impress with Your Looks?
If you like the idea of enhancing your closet with a gorgeous silk slip dress but don’t have a clue on how to wear it, I’ve got you. To know what you’re after, first determine the cut, length, details, fabric, and cleavage you most prefer in this kind of dress and then you can think of how to wear it.
As a Standalone Piece
If you’re nostalgic about the ‘90s, and want to recreate the iconic looks many fashionistas wore at that time, then there’s no doubt you should opt for the slip dress on its own. This is the perfect choice for warm spring and summer months as it’s lightweight and breezy, especially the more breathable silk and satin slip dress models.
Wear it with your choice of women’s shoes, like a pair of sleek resort sandals, pumps, low heel sandals or low block heels if you’re against wearing uncomfortable stilettos for daily errands. Other stylish options for versatile hot weather looks are kitten heel sandals, classic mules, and even sneakers for the ultimate comfort.
This kind of dress also looks great when paired with sneakers for a more casual look. You can be flexible here with your choice, whether it’s a staple white sneaker, or something flashier like colourful kicks with chunky platforms perfect for casual workdays. Finish up the outfit with a leather bag that goes well with your footwear style and colour-wise, and you’re done.
As far as jewellery goes, you should keep it to a minimum, and avoid using any chunky oversized pieces – this is especially true for the necklace. Delicate minimalist necklaces are a great pick for an already delicate and feminine dress, so if you want to use something more attention-grabbing let that be the earrings or hand accessories such as rings and bracelets.
As a Layered Piece
Not all of us ladies have the confidence needed to don a figure-flattering satin slip dress so it’s okay if you feel like avoiding the look altogether. What’s important to know is that you’re not alone, and there are strategies you can implement to welcome this wardrobe staple in your daily life.
If you hate the idea of showing off too much cleavage, even in the hot summer months, yet you like the deep cleavage V neck design, one trick is to wear the dress with a T-shirt underneath. This solution screams of the ‘90s, so you’re sure to get bonus nostalgic vibe points for pulling it off. To keep it neutral, a white tee would do. However, if you feel like experimenting, have a go with another colour too.
Knotting a loose T-shirt over the dress is another trick you can pick up too. Using the stylish silk slips as the base layers, you can team them up with various tops as the outer layer. For example, when the weather is a bit chilly, you can create an edgy look complementing them with leather jackets and leather boots. Denim jackets are another staple you can’t miss out on, especially for a more laid-back outfit.
And that’s not all – you can further pair the slips with warmer layers like your favourite sweaters and turn them into sleek skirts. Tuck the sweater in with the help of a show-stopping belt and you can count on an amazing outcome. Heeled boots plus hooped earrings are a match made in heaven and would assist you with rounding up the look.
If you’re more oriented towards the 9-to-5 combinations, a long blazer can be just what you require in using the slips as bases for work outfits. Use them with slim waist belts and pull out a bit of the dresses, and you get a neat blouson-like effect. As you can see, it’s really easy to mix this clothing piece with both your casual and classy ensembles. So why not make way for it in the wardrobe essentials?
