How to recognise it
There is no waist seam and no darts shaping the bodice. The dress is close to a rectangle: almost the same width at bust, waist and hip. It is usually short, at or above the knee.
Where it comes from
It was anticipated by the 1957 "sack" dresses of Balenciaga and Givenchy, and in the 1960s it became the symbol of youth fashion in London and New York, along with geometric prints.
Who and when it suits
Comfortable and loose, it suits everyday wear, travel and warm weather. Since the waist is not marked it can be worn with or without a belt, with trainers or loafers.
Variations and look-alikes
It comes sleeveless, short- or long-sleeved, in tweed for autumn and linen for summer, sometimes with pockets or a collar. A longer, mid-calf version looks more modern. It differs from a sheath in being loose at the waist, and from a sweater dress in being woven rather than knitted.
How to style it
- Add a thin belt if you want to mark the waist.
- Loafers and a large tote for every day.
- Pick a denser fabric so the dress keeps its shape.
Similar styles
Frequently asked
01How is a shift dress different from a sheath dress?
A shift is loose with no waist; a sheath is fitted and defines the waist.
02Which shoes go with a shift dress?
Loafers, ballet flats, trainers, and sandals or kitten heels for the evening.