How to Style a Slip Dress: From the ’90s to Modern Times

ByIngrid Leo Updated on

A slip dress is defined as a thin dress made of silk or another delicate fabric, often decorated with lace. They come in various lengths ranging from mini to maxis styles and usually feature thin straps. Slip dresses are inspired by the look of underslips or petticoats and became popular in the ’90s and been on trend ever since.

In this article, we will show you various examples of how to style a slip dress. We will guide you through the process of curating looks from the ’90s to the present day, as well as discuss styles for different occasions.

Here you can learn how to create different ’90s-inspired outfits.

How to create styles with a slip dress for every day?

White mini slip dress with accessories

For the first example, we chose a white satin slip dress with a halterneck. It has an elegant scarf-like detail on the back. The white color of the dress and shoes form the base, and the light green tote adds playfulness.

Experiment with accessories in different colors to create a summery look. The mini-length of the dress allows for accessorizing with larger pieces to create visual harmony. Sandals, mules, or slides work best for this look.

  1. Bottega Veneta: Jodie Teen Knotted Intrecciato Green Leather Tote
  2. Galvan: Pandora Tie-Detailed White Satin Halterneck Mini Dress
  3. Manolo Blahnik: Callasli Elaphe Slingback White Sandals (Similar)

Mini slip dress with a cardigan

We created this ’90s-reminiscent preppy look with a white mini slip dress and a vibrant pink cardigan. To combine playfulness with practicality, we chose white sneakers with pink and green edges that echo the colors in the sweater.

Layering with a cardigan not only adds warmth to an outfit but also visual interest. In this example, a denim jacket could replace a sweater. We recommend going with a slightly larger one to create proportionality.

A small shoulder bag will complete your outfit.

  1. Gucci: Wool-Jacquard Pink and Green Cardigan
  2. Galvan: Pandora Tie-Detailed White Satin Halterneck Mini Dress
  3. Alexander McQueen: White Leather Exaggerated-Sole Sneakers

Midi slip dress and a blazer

In this example, we wanted to show how to create a more formal outfit. We chose a white midi-length slip dress and matched it with a fitted blazer.

As we mentioned, opt for a larger blazer to create visual balance, but this one that accentuates the waist looks more formal than an oversized belted blazer.

In terms of colors and patterns, we paired a white monochrome dress with a beige patterned blazer and handbag. Note that the blazer’s pattern is small, and the balance is restored with a larger pattern of a shoulder bag.

As another accessory, we recommend a silk scarf (here you can read about why scarves are a timeless staple). It will fit perfectly around your neck or adorn your handbag.

The midi slip dress can easily be transformed into a ’90s-style outfit. Opt for a mesh blouse with long sleeves and wear it under a midi dress. For shoes, choose sneakers or loafers.

  1. Rasario: Lace-Up Duchesse Satin White Midi Dress
  2. Blazé Milano: Last Minute Charmer Double-Breasted Houndstooth Silk-Tweed Blazer
  3. Gucci: Ophidia Leather-Trimmed Coated-Canvas Beige Shoulder Bag

Outfit ideas with brightly colored slip dresses

Green midi slip dress with pink flowers

We discussed whether this corduroy dress could be classified as a slip dress. Upon inspecting its cut, neckline shape, and two straps we decided it was best to place it in the category of these dresses.

To give this straight-cut dress a modern edge, we paired it with an oversized blazer. The contrast between the bright colors of the dress and the beige blazer creates a visual balance. To finish off the look, mules in a neutral-color smooth leather were selected.

  1. Loveshackfancy: Sima Floral-Print Green Velvet Midi Dress
  2. By Malene Birger: Rosettan Cotton-Blend Beige Blazer
  3. Aeyde: Amanda Cream Leather Mules

Green dress with a blue cardigan

In this outfit, we chose to combine three colors. The pink flowers of the dress go well with the light blue sweater.

For shoes, we chose woven leather white slides to create a neutral base. We recommend using shoes in light colors with brightly colored slip dresses to create balance. With flat shoes, this outfit works for everyday practicality. If you switch out your shoes to heels though, this outfit instantly transitions into an evening-ready ensemble.

To complete your look, choose a shoulder bag in white for repeating hues.

In addition, a slip dress with straps and a cardigan is a classic example of the ’90s girly look.

  1. Loveshackfancy: Sima Floral-Print Green Velvet Midi Dress
  2. &Daughter: Shea Merino Wool and Cashmere-Blend Light Blue Cardigan
  3. Saint Laurent: Tribute White Woven Leather Slides

Bright green slip dress and a leather jacket

Notice the details of this midi dress – the double thin straps, the ring-decorated back, and the leg cut-out in the front. This lightweight dress is made of viscose and meets the criteria of a slip dress.

To create this outfit, we chose an oversized leather jacket and smooth leather mules. They both come in the same shade to create a neutral base for the outfit.

  1. The Attico: Fujiko Open-Back Embellished Mind Crepe Dress
  2. Stand Studio: Oversized Topstitched Cream Leather Jacket
  3. Aeyde: Amanda Cream Leather Mules

Metallic maxi slip dress with a cardigan

This slip dress has elegant knotting at the low back. We combined the dark green metallic dress with gray colors – a cardigan and sunglasses. The dress is slim-fit, so the oversized cardigan creates proportionality.

You can choose shades of brown for the shoes and handbag to create another layer of the base color.

  1. Reformation: Breslin Metallic Stretch-Jersey Dark Green Maxi Dress
  2. Allude: Ribbed Gray Cashmere Cardigan
  3. Cartier: Signature Square-Frame Gold-Tone Sunglasses

Red slip dress and a gray jacket

How to style a slip dress in red? For creating a casual, everyday look, pair it with a gray jacket. We chose the shoulder bag with red and dark blue colors to create repeating motifs. Repeat the dark blue motif with earrings or a monochrome silk scarf to complete the ensemble.

We can imagine this dress for the ’90s-themed party. Replace the wool jacket with a black mesh jacket and choose sandals with a platform.

  1. Stella McCarntey: Asymmetric Draped Red Satin Midi Dress
  2. Saint Laurent: Double-Breasted Gray Wool Jacket
  3. Gucci: Ophidia Coated Canvas White Shoulder Bag (Similar)

Maxi slip dress for summer

Spaghetti straps on the neck, low back, and front leg cut-out create an ideal satin slip dress for summer vacations. We chose dark brown cat-shaped sunglasses and cream slides.

To complete the ensemble, choose a wide-brimmed straw hat and colorful bracelets.

  1. Rotate Birger Christensen: Shalonda Floral-Print Satin Maxi Dress
  2. Cartier: Panthère de Cartier Cat-Eye Gold-Tone Sunglasses
  3. Staud: Nevil Asymmetric Cream Leather Slides

Floral dress with a knitted vest

One of the classic ways to create an outfit with a summer dress is with a knitted vest. A silky slip dress creates the first layer and the vest provides not only warmth but also style.

A small lavender leather tote completes the look. To achieve a more playful ensemble, select a petite handbag; however, if you’re looking for something more functional, opt for the larger option. For shoes, opt for strappy sandals or espadrille wedges.

Here you can learn how to style a sweater vest.

  1. Rotate Birger Christensen: Shalonda Floral-Print Satin Maxi Dress
  2. Mr. Mittens: Cable-Knit Cream Wool Vest
  3. Bottega Veneta: Handle Mini Intrecciato Lilac Leather Tote

How to style a slip dress for a special occasion?

Sequinned slip dress

In this example, we wanted to create an ensemble suitable for a special occasion from cold colors – white and purple. We chose a sequinned slip dress with straps and pumps of the same shade. And we matched it with purple big earrings.

Transform your outfit into the ’90s with platform sandals and brightly colored accessories.

  1. Sabbadini: 18-Karat White Gold Lacquer and Amethyst Purple Clip Earrings
  2. Galvan: Mykonos Sequinned Metallic White Tulle Midi Dress
  3. Christian Louboutin: Kate 85 mm Glittered Silver Leather Pumps

White slip dress in combination with gold

In this example, we wanted to show you how to match silver with gold. A white sequinned slip dress goes well with golden sandals and a gold bracelet with a green emerald.

In this ensemble, the heel of the shoe has a square shape which gives it a modern feel. Since the main focus is on the dress, the rest of the elements are delicate – both the narrow bracelet, the smooth leather, and the narrow heel of the shoes.

  1. David Yurman: Stax 18-Karat Gold Diamond and Emerald Bracelet
  2. Galvan: Mykonos Sequinned Metallic White Tulle Midi Dress
  3. Bottega Veneta: Stretch Metallic Gold Leather Sandals

Conclusion

In this article, we have illustrated different examples of how to style a slip dress.

As you can see, a slip dress is a versatile piece of clothing. Depending on what you pair it with and the accessories you choose, you can create completely different looks. Choose oversized blazers or jackets to create a modern look. To create a ’90s style, you can wear a long-sleeved top under a slip dress or combine it with a cardigan and platform sandals.

It can be more difficult to create an outfit with brightly colored slip dresses. Combine them with clothes of neutral colors and choose accessories that have a small pattern.

Slip dresses are made of delicate fabrics such as silk, satin, viscose, or velvet. They are ideal for summer and special occasions, but you can also combine them with knitwear and jackets for colder weather. It is also essential to wear seamless undergarments with a slip dress.

With the right styling, a slip dress can become an essential part of your wardrobe. Be creative and experiment with different combinations to find the perfect look for yourself.

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