The Sheath Dress: Timeless, Versatile, and Stylish
What do these fashion icons (Jackie Kennedy, Audrey Hepburn, Christina Hendricks, Kate Middleton), both current and ageless, have in common. They all know how to wear the sheath dress to express their personality.
And why? Because the sheath dress is the perfect base for working a variety of different looks. Whether it’s for work or play, a sheath dress can be dressed up or down and still look all sorts of stylish. Part of their beauty is that they require little thought in the morning when you’re rushing out the door to work, but can then be spiced up or down for a casual weekend or for a Girls Nite Out. So if you’re looking to spice up your sheath dress game, stay tuned….
What To Look For
Style: Sleeveless dress with classic neckline, fitted waist, tapered skirt shape and back vent. If you work in a professional environment, a concealed zipper is best and length should hit no higher than 2” above the knees. A lightly-textured neutral fabric makes for a great starter piece, and there’s so many fun colors to expand into.
Fit: Should be close to the body throughout but not tight, nipping in at your natural waist. For a staple piece that can be worn for years to come, consider spending a little more for good quality and any alterations needed for a perfect fit.
Tips for Wearing a Sheath Dress
It’s All in the Accessories: When it comes to styling a plain sheath dress, it’s all in the accessories. Keep things corporate with simple accessories, classic pumps, a ladylike handbag, and maybe even a silk scarf. For a night out on the town try teaming your sheath dress with statement jewels, a compact clutch, and strappy stiletto heels. Headed to a picnic? Choose a sheath dress in a summery color and pair with some flat sandals, a floppy hat, and straw tote.
Layer Up or Under: Adding a few extra layers can totally transform the look of a sheath dress. A sleeveless sheath dress looks great in the summer time, but it can also be a great transitional piece for fall. Things like throwing on a cardigan or jacket over the top are pretty common tips, but you could also try wearing a collared shirt or turtleneck underneath for something a bit different
Change the Silhouette: The sheath dress has a simple column-like design. You can, however, change things up a bit with the addition of something as simple as a skinny waist belt or a shapely jacket. If your sheath dress is looking a bit too straight up and down, wearing things that cinch in at the waist can help accentuate your figure.
Use a Flattering Fabric: When looking at how to wear sheath dress styles, take note of the fabric. Clingy fabrics will highlight your curves and thicker fabrics can look a bit boxy. Mid-weight fabrics are a safe bet as they still hold structure while allowing for some give.
Pick a Print: For tips on how to wear sheath dress styles, accessories can play a big role. But what if you want your dress to do all the talking? Never fear because right now the fashion world is having a love affair with all things printed. Choose a sheath dress in a bold botanic or geometric print for a fun twist on this classic style.
My inspiration for this article came from the Classy Cubicle three part series on a white sheath dress. Why? Because a white sheath dress is an amazing canvas for changing your work look from brightly colored blazers or even bold jewelry to a casual look with gingham shirt and white patent leather Birkenstocks.
Evgeniya, our Sister House fashion designer, has put together three distinctly different looks using a white sheath dress which you can use for work, for casual play or for a Girls Nite Out. Hopefully, we have illustrated how wide-ranging your options are in styling this great basic dress.
The Casual Look
Dressing for Work
Girls Nite Out
Like the look. Click on the link to Sister House where details are available in our interactive Lookbook. Be sure and send Evgeniya a note at evgeniya@sisterhouse,net if you like the look and want more.
Want more tips, subscribe to the Sister House email newsletter (under the book picture-right side).
Finally, see how DeeDee wears her white sheath dress.
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Hugs….Tasi
Category: Style, Transgender Fashion
About the Author (Author Profile)
Tasi was a transgender, married, lifelong crossdresser. She passed away in late 2018. She’s the founder of the Ladies of the Blue Ridge transgender group in Roanoke VA, a prolific writer, commentator and blogger including fashion articles for Tri-Ess, TG Reporter, Repartee, and Pretty T-Girls magazine. Tasi currently resides in Merida, (Yucatan) Mexico. Her new website, Sister House and her blog, the Fashionable TG Woman are dedicated to fashion and style for the transgendered woman. Tasi’s book, "Top Ten Fashion Mistakes By Crossdressers and How To Fix Them" is available on Amazon or on her site free to subscribers.Subscribe
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