If pencil skirts and button-down shirts are your traditional go-to uniform for the office, think of a sheath dress that you can style in multiple ways. Chic and ladylike, a sheath dress is a type of dress designed to fit close to the body, relatively unadorned. Unlike many cocktail dresses and the longer ballroom dress, a sheath dress typically falls around the knees or lower thighs, which makes it appropriate for the office. If you think dresses are not versatile enough, keep on reading for our 5 ways to style your sheath dress for the office.
1. Let the sheath dress make a statement itself.
Since a sheath dress is meant to look feminine and modest, let it make a statement on its own. When picking the right dress for you, the right fabric is the key. Go for “seasonless” fabric like tropical weight wool or a similar blend. Since you’re likely wearing the dress for the office, it doesn’t need to have a lot of stretch because it shouldn’t be super fitted or clingy. Just go for hemlines that fall at the knee and a seam that stops at your waist. Though a classic sheath should be as simple and unembellished, you may still go for printed, paneled, and detailed dress that will look creative in your workplace. But remember, the less detail the dress has, the more you’ll get out of it.
2. Dress up your dress with a scarf or a chic necklace.
Since a sheath dress is one of the easiest ensembles to accessorize, create a classic, edgy, modern, or fashion-forward style with it. The classic, no-frills silhouette can be completely transformed based on what accessories you choose to add to it. You can make your dress look romantic with bib necklaces and scarves while strand of pearls will keep your classy vibe that looks more appropriate for work.
3. Create a modern suit out of your sheath dress and blazer.
Why not toss the idea of the classic suit by pairing a basic blazer with your sheath dress? This modern look is best with a single breasted jacket that has a bit of shape to it, not a straight masculine cut. Like fashion blogger Mary Orton, go for a monochromatic dressing when creating a modern suit out of your sheath dress. This way, you’ll look more polished and professional.
4. Define your waist with a flattering belt.
Though a sheath dress fit closely to the waist compare to a shift dress, you may still change the silhouette by adding a belt. This way, you can refresh overall look, or even making your basic dress look like a completely different dress. Depending on your body type, you may go for a wide elastic belt or slim belt that fall at the waist or right under the bust. The new corset style belts add a bit of show-stopping style to a simple sheath dress, which can be the perfect dramatic add-on if you’re going from the office to dinner.
5. Layer your dress with basic ensembles in chilly months.
For maximum versatility of sheath dresses, look for a sleeveless one with a scoop neckline. This way, your dress will allow you to layer pieces underneath without looking fussy or clumsy. By heeding these simple styling tricks, you’ll be able to get the most out of your plain, basic, and simple dress.