Women’s Shift Dresses

11 min readApr 9, 2024

Get ready to make a statement with our roundup of the best womens shift dresses! From chic workwear to fashion-forward evening wear, we’ve curated a selection of stylish and versatile options to suit every occasion. Dive into our collection and discover the perfect addition to your wardrobe.

The Top 5 Best Women’s Shift Dresses

Blush Blouson Lace Shift Dress from Vince Camuto — Add a touch of elegance to your wardrobe with the Vince Camuto Women’s Blush Blouson-Sleeve Shift Dress, featuring billowy sleeves, delicate lace detailing, and a refined, lined fit.
Elegant Pleated Sleeve Shift Dress by Tommy Hilfiger — Step into elegance with the Tommy Hilfiger Women’s Pleated-Sleeve Shift Dress in Black, size 14 — a stylish addition perfect for your wardrobe.
Stylish Ribbed Turtleneck Shift Dress for Women — Experience exclusive, trend-setting femininity with Aqua’s 100% women’s ribbed turtleneck shift dress — the perfect blend of comfort and style in black, now available exclusively at Bloomingdale’s in Size M.
Tie-Waist Short Sleeve Shift Dress in Pink — Experience versatile elegance with TheMogan Women’s Tie Waist Short Sleeve DTY Jersey Shift Dress — a timeless staple perfect for both casual and office occasions.
Stylish Tommy Hilfiger Women’s Grommet-Neck Shift Dress — Timeless Classic for Any Occasion — Transform your workweek to casual weekends with the stylish Tommy Hilfiger Women’s Grommet-Neck Shift Dress, offering a versatile and trendy look for any occasion.

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Reviews

Blush Blouson Lace Shift Dress from Vince Camuto

I must admit, I was drawn to the Vince Camuto blouson-sleeve shift dress the moment I laid eyes on it. The delicate lace detailing adds a touch of elegance and sophistication that I found quite impressive. The hidden back zipper closure makes dressing a breeze, and the round neckline perfectly frames the face. This dress is both stylish and comfortable, making it a great addition to any wardrobe.

However, I must also mention that the color was different than what I expected. It appeared to be a more peachy pink in person, rather than the blush shade I had hoped for. This did not meet my initial expectations, but perhaps I should have been more attentive to the description. The sizing was true to form, but the material of this dress is polyester, so I had to be cautious when cleaning.

In conclusion, the Vince Camuto blouson-sleeve shift dress is a beautiful and elegant piece, with delicate lace detailing and a comfortable fit. While the color did not quite meet my expectations, the overall design and craftsmanship of the dress make it worth considering for those looking to add a touch of class to their wardrobe.

Elegant Pleated Sleeve Shift Dress by Tommy Hilfiger

I recently came across the Tommy Hilfiger Women’s Pleated Sleeve Shift Dress while browsing for a little black dress and I must say, it caught my attention. With its crisp pleats accenting the sleeves and an A-line silhouette, this dress definitely exudes a sense of style and elegance.

One feature that stood out to me was the short sleeves; they gave the dress a playful and flirty touch. Perfect for a summer evening! I found the dress to be comfortable to wear and it hugged my figure just right.

However, there was one minor issue that struck a chord with me. My friend who tried it on mentioned that it may not be the best fit for those with a fuller figure, and she advised that a small would still feel a bit too tight. So, it’s probably a good idea to order up a size or two if you’re not sure about your exact measurements.

Despite this small setback, the Tommy Hilfiger Pleated Sleeve Shift Dress certainly made an impression on me and left me feeling confident in a versatile, stylish, and elegant look.

Stylish Ribbed Turtleneck Shift Dress for Women

Having recently added this Aqua Women’s Ribbed Turtleneck Shift Dress to my wardrobe, I have to say it’s a game-changer. The first thing I noticed when I slipped it on was the luxuriously soft fabric — a cozy cashmere blend that instantly made me feel snug and comfortable. The shift silhouette is both flattering and versatile, easily dressing up with a pair of pumps for a night out or down with some sneakers for a more casual look.

One of my favorite aspects of this dress is the high neckline, paired with breezy long sleeves that provide just the right amount of coverage. And for those of us with sensitive skin, this ribbed turtleneck dress has an added benefit of being super breathable, making it perfect for chilly fall days. The black color is a versatile staple that’s easy to pair with any number of accessories, taking you from a casual stroll to a formal dinner with ease.

However, no outfit is perfect, and this dress does have some drawbacks. Although the dress is labeled as “mini, “ it leans more towards knee-length, so those of us who prefer a dressier hemline may be disappointed. Additionally, the somewhat snug fit might be a turn off for some, due to the stretchy nature of the material.

All in all, this Aqua Women’s Ribbed Turtleneck Shift Dress is a wonderful addition to any wardrobe, offering both style and comfort in equal measures. It’s a perfect fit for those who value both fashion and practicality, and I’ve already been getting a lot of compliments when I wear it.

Tie-Waist Short Sleeve Shift Dress in Pink

I recently had the chance to try on TheMogan Women’s Pink Tie Waist Short Sleeve Dress, and I must say, it made for a comfy addition to my wardrobe. The soft, stretchy fabric allowed for easy movement, making it perfect for both casual and office settings.

One of the standout features of this dress was the tie waist, which gave it a nice, cinched look without being too restrictive. The pockets were a pleasant surprise and came in handy when I needed to store my phone or other essentials.

On the downside, I did notice that the dress was shorter than expected, so I had to be mindful of my posture to avoid any unwanted exposure. Another minor annoyance was that the back of the dress tended to rise up a bit, requiring frequent adjustments.

Overall, this dress proved to be a versatile and stylish option for any woman looking to add a touch of elegance to her wardrobe, despite its minor drawbacks.

Stylish Tommy Hilfiger Women’s Grommet-Neck Shift Dress — Timeless Classic for Any Occasion

I recently tried on the Tommy Hilfiger Women’s Grommet-Neck Shift Dress in black, and I have to say, it’s the perfect blend of classy and casual. The grommets at the neck with the shiny light gold chain add a unique touch to the dress, making it stand out from the ordinary. The dress has a feminine silhouette which can easily be accessorized for different occasions, from the office to a relaxing weekend.

The fabric is 94% polyester and 6% elastane, which makes it comfortable and easy to wear. However, I wish it could be machine washable instead of dry clean only. The zipper closure is a great feature, ensuring a secure fit.

Overall, this dress is a staple piece that can easily transition from work to play. With a variety of styles and prints to choose from, Tommy Hilfiger offers a wide range of options for women’s clothing that can be easily coordinated with the rest of your wardrobe.

Buyer’s Guide

A buyer’s guide for women’s shift dresses will help you understand the essential features, considerations, and general advice to make the best choice for your wardrobe needs. Shift dresses are a classic, versatile, and timeless piece of clothing that can be worn during various occasions. They are ideal for business meetings, parties, and casual outings. In this guide, we’ll discuss the key factors to consider when shopping for a shift dress to ensure you find the perfect fit and style for your unique style.

Types of Womens Shift Dresses

When shopping for women’s shift dresses, it is essential to know the different types available in the market. This knowledge will help you make the right choice based on your preferences and requirements. Some common types of shift dresses include the following:

A-line or straight shift dresses, 2. Empire line shift dresses, 3. Flared or A-line shift dresses, and 4. Maxi shift dresses.

Quality and Materials

The quality and materials of a shift dress play a significant role in its durability and overall look. Consider the following factors when choosing the material for your shift dress:

Fabric type (e. g. , silk, cotton, rayon, or polyester), 2. Weave, 3. Thread count, 4. Lining, and 5. Stitching. High-quality materials and careful craftsmanship will result in a luxurious, comfortable, and long-lasting shift dress.

Color and Pattern

Color and pattern selection are crucial when choosing a shift dress that matches your style and personality. Consider the following factors when choosing the color and pattern for your shift dress:

Your skin tone, 2. Your personal style, 3. The occasion, and 4. Your comfort level with bold or bright colors.

Size and Fit

Size and fit are essential factors when shopping for women’s shift dresses. A well-fitting shift dress will flatter your figure and ensure your comfort throughout the day. While shopping, consider the following factors when selecting the size and fit of your shift dress:

Body measurements (e. g. , bust, waist, and hips), 2. Comfort and ease of movement, and 3. The choice of size and fit according to the brand’s sizing chart.

FAQ

What is a shift dress?

A shift dress is a classic, versatile garment that has been a wardrobe staple for women of all ages for decades. It features a simple, straight silhouette that clings to the body, creating a streamlined and sophisticated look. The basic cut of the shift dress typically starts from the shoulders, falls straight down to the waist, and extends to the hemline. This timeless design allows for easy movement and is perfect for a wide range of occasions, from work to play.

Shift dresses are often made of lightweight and comfortable materials such as cotton, linen, or silk. They can be dressed up or down by layering, combining with different accessories, and pairing with various shoes, which makes them a must-have for any wardrobe. Shift dresses come in a variety of lengths, from mini to just above the knee, to ensure that there is a style to suit every body type and preference.

What are the benefits of wearing a shift dress?

There are several benefits to wearing a shift dress, including comfort, versatility, and timeless style. The streamlined and form-fitting design of a shift dress allows for ease of movement and is suitable for a wide range of body types. The classic cut also allows for an effortless and polished look, making it a perfect choice for work, social events, or casual outings. Its simplicity also makes it easy to accessorize and layer, which can transform the dress for different occasions.

Moreover, shift dresses have a timeless quality that never goes out of fashion. Their simple cut and elegant design can be easily dressed up or down, making them a staple in many wardrobes. As a versatile and functional wardrobe essential, shift dresses are an investment that will give you years of wear and provide countless outfit options.

Are there any downsides to wearing a shift dress?

One possible downside to wearing a shift dress is that it might not be the most flattering option for everyone. The straight silhouette can sometimes make the wearer look shorter or add extra bulk if styled incorrectly. However, this can be easily overcome by selecting the right dress length and fabric, as well as understanding how to layer appropriately.

Another potential downside is the limited coverage that shift dresses provide. Depending on the hemline, the wearer may feel more exposed, which might not be suitable for certain settings or personal preferences. To address this, many shift dresses are available in various lengths, allowing the wearer to choose the most appropriate size based on their comfort level and the occasion.

What should I look for when choosing a shift dress?

When selecting a shift dress, consider factors such as fabric, length, and color. Choose a lightweight and breathable fabric that is comfortable to wear, especially for those who live in warmer climates. The hemline should be chosen based on personal preferences and the occasion, noting that shift dresses are typically available in mini, midi, and full-length versions.

Another aspect to consider is the level of formality the shift dress should convey. For formal occasions, opt for a dress made from luxurious materials such as silk, satin, or velvet. For more casual settings, a cotton or linen shift dress will suffice. Additionally, take note of the dress’s color, as brighter hues might be more suitable for summer, while darker shades may be more appropriate for cooler seasons.

How can I style a shift dress for different occasions?

Styling a shift dress is all about accessorizing and layering to create a different look. For a more casual outfit, layer a shift dress with a casual blazer, a pair of ankle boots, and some statement jewelry. Incorporating a scarf or cardigan can add warmth and depth to the overall look. For work or more formal events, consider wearing a shift dress with a blazer, heels, and a structured clutch to achieve a polished and professional appearance.

To dress down a shift dress, opt for a relaxed and laid-back look by pairing it with a pair of sneakers, a denim jacket, and a crossbody bag. A shift dress can also be worn with a statement belt to emphasize the waist and create a more feminine silhouette. Mixing and matching various accessories and layering options allows you to create a plethora of looks and outfits from just one versatile dress.

Where can I find the best shift dresses?

There are several places where you can find the perfect shift dress. Many high-end fashion brands offer shift dresses in their collections, so be sure to check out the latest offerings from designers such as Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, and J. Crew. Additionally, mid-range fashion retailers like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, and H&M often stock a variety of shift dresses in their stores or online platforms.

Lastly, don’t forget to explore indie fashion brands and online marketplaces. Small, independent designers often create unique and one-of-a-kind shift dresses, which can be found on platforms like Etsy or Depop. By taking the time to scour different sources, you can find a shift dress that not only fits your style and budget but also adds something special to your wardrobe.