How to recognise it
The dress follows the line of the body from shoulder to knee but is not stretchy: the shape comes from darts and seams. The waist is defined but the skirt does not widen. It is usually sleeveless or has short sleeves.
Where it comes from
The silhouette became popular in the 1950s. The most famous example is the black Hubert de Givenchy dress Audrey Hepburn wore in Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961).
Who and when it suits
It is the classic business dress: right for the office, meetings and more formal events. It creates a clear, calm line, so it looks good with a blazer and classic court shoes.
Variations and look-alikes
It comes sleeveless, with short or three-quarter sleeves, with a round, boat or square neckline, sometimes with a back slit. The most businesslike version is knee length in wool crepe; the evening one in satin or lace. It is most often confused with a bodycon dress, but a sheath is not stretchy and holds its own shape.
How to style it
- With a blazer and court shoes for a meeting.
- Evening: pearls and a small clutch.
- Choose fabric with a little stretch so it is comfortable to sit in.
Similar styles
Frequently asked
01How is a sheath dress different from a bodycon dress?
A sheath gets its shape from tailoring and is not stretchy; a bodycon dress is made of stretch fabric and hugs the body.
02Is a sheath dress good for a job interview?
Yes: knee length, in a quiet colour and with a blazer, it is one of the safest choices.