Long gowns are frequently linked with formal attire. They’re everywhere: at weddings, on red carpets, and at the most opulent occasions. However, there are numerous long dress styles to choose from, as well as numerous methods to wear long dresses.
The correct long dress can be incredibly casual, super cute for date night, ideal for a day of shopping, or worn at the most upscale establishment in town. Once you know how to wear long dresses, you can do anything with them. It’s time to get a better understanding of all the different styles of long dresses you should start wearing.
History of Long Dress Styles
Dresses are one of the most ancient types of apparel. Both men and women are depicted in ancient artwork wearing dresses and skirts on a frequent basis. Egyptian pharaohs and other prominent historical figures wore long dresses throughout history. After all, a toga is nothing more than a long dress. Long robe-like tunics were worn by both men and women throughout antiquity.
Types of Quintessential Long Dresses
Long dresses have a long and illustrious history dating back to the dawn of time. However, various dress styles have arisen and taken hold in the fashion industry over time. Which long dresses have you worn in the past and which ones should you start wearing now?
Debutante dress
The debutant gown is not limited to a single style. Many lengthy dress types might be considered debutant dresses, which are distinguished by their length. All of these outfits are white and are frequently paired with gloves. The debutante gown was traditionally worn by young ladies during special debutante balls, which served as their formal introduction to the dating scene in high society circles.
Bouffant dress
A long, full ball gown dress with plenty of frills is the bouffant style. This can resemble a ruffled tiered garment with numerous overlapping layers of ruffles. The bouffant gown, on the other hand, has a distinct style. A sleeveless, tight-fitting bodice is common in bouffant gowns. The large, puffy skirt is the star of this strapless dress. The ballgown is a variant of the bouffant dress.
Harem dress
This harem dress has a long silhouette, a voluminous skirt, and a loose fit throughout. The skirt has a tiny flair to it. Harem gowns are often comprised of airy, flowing fabric. It’s a light, breezy, and loose-fitting style.
Maxi dress
A popular long dress style is the maxi dress. It features a long, voluminous skirt and fits loosely around the torso. Maxi dresses are designed to be light and flowy. These dresses come in a variety of neckline and sleeve designs, ranging from long to short sleeves. Maxi dresses are frequently worn as casual wear due to their breezy, loose shape. It’s also a popular choice for people who prefer a more boho look.
Maxi dresses come in a variety of patterns and fabrics, allowing you to create a variety of appearances. Long Ankara dresses are frequently designed in a maxi style. These outfits are perfect for a party. The beach is a terrific place to wear summer maxi dresses.
Mermaid Dress
The mermaid silhouette is a classic long dress style This is fitted through the bodice, waist and hips, hugging the figure much like a sheath dress style. Around the mid-thigh or the knee, however, the mermaid dress flares out at the bottom in a wide design. This creates a unique silhouette that has a lot of flair to it.
Midi dress
By certain measures, the midi dress is a lengthy style. It usually finishes above the ankles but below the knees, near the calves. Because it is neither a maxi nor a small length, it is referred to as a midi-length. Midi dresses come in a variety of sleeve and neckline styles. This is a very versatile hem length that can be worn with a variety of different dress styles, including wrap dresses. A midi-length sweater dress, as well as a variety of other casual dresses, are available. You may even find a midi-length bandage dress.
Tea-length dress
Tea-length dresses have been popular since the early 1900s, when they were first worn as casual attire while visiting friends throughout the day, usually during teatime. The skirt is long and broad, ending mid-calf. The bodice can be designed in a variety of ways, with various necklines and sleeve styles, however tea-length dress designs are typically more conservative. Tea length dresses are considered traditional and even vintage today because they were a popular dress length in the 1950s. This is a terrific party dress silhouette that can be worn in a variety of casual and semi-formal settings. A tea-length dress is a lovely choice for any event, from prom night to afternoon shopping.
Cami gown
Long and satiny or silky, the cami gown clings to the body in a close but not too tight fit. Cami dresses are designed to resemble long slips. They usually have spaghetti straps and are designed in light, flowing designs that follow the body’s lines and curves.
Column dress
The column dress is meant to hang straight down the body, snug but not too tight. It wraps around the body just above the bustline, crosses the chest, and hangs straight down the body from there. Column dresses are usually floor-length. These are popular evening gown styles, especially for women who desire to conceal a pregnancy tummy or other troublesome body parts.
Ballgown Dress
Though a ball gown can be made out of a variety of lengthy dress styles, the ball gown silhouette is distinct and famous. The bodice of this lengthy shape is normally sleeveless, although it can also include straps or cap sleeves. It has a tight waist and a broad skirt shape that extends out from the hips. Petticoats and extra skirt layers are frequently utilized to create a wide impression.
Kaftan Dress
The kaftan dress is a very loose-fitting dress with a lot of room on both sides. It’s produced from a single piece of fabric that’s cut in a wide, straight pattern. In most cases, the kaftan dress is ankle-length.
Shoes to Wear with Quintessential Long Dresses
Maxi dresses and skirts might be difficult to style, but the possibilities are endless! You’ll fall in love with the combinations after you understand how to combine them with various types of shoes. Here are some shoes for long skirts that can make your outfit pop.
Long dresses are a fashion mainstay that best emphasise a woman’s feminine appeal and silhouette. Flowy maxi dresses, gorgeous gowns, elegant tea-length skirts— long dresses are a fashion staple that best emphasise a woman’s feminine charm and silhouette. Long dresses come in a variety of styles to suit the occasion, whether it’s for sunny days or chilly winter nights, formal events or everyday wear. You’ll need to complement your dress with the proper pair of shoes to bring out your most beautiful self in that outfit.
Women frequently overlook the need of wearing appropriate shoes with long dresses, primarily because they believe the shoes will not be visible. The appropriate pair of shoes, on the other hand, can complement the silhouette of your dress and form.
Heels and Stilettos
High heels and stilettos are the typical companions of evening gowns and long skirts, as they genuinely highlight a woman’s form by making her appear taller and slimmer. These are best used for formal and ceremonial events, such as weddings, as they are a dressier sort of footwear.
You can’t stand wearing high heels? Pumps or kitten heels are good choices. Low-heeled shoes provide minimal elevation while maintaining the same elegant style as high heels.
Ballet Flats
Ballet flats, in particular, have the ability to make a woman appear more feminine and sophisticated when worn correctly. Ballet flats feature a beautiful and lithe look that goes well with flowing maxi dresses and skirts while also keeping your feet comfortable.
Wedges
Wedges are your best friend when it comes to a more relaxed look with satin and flowy dresses. They offer the ideal blend of comfort and sophistication—they’re a more sophisticated alternative to flats and a more comfortable alternative to high heels. In the summer, espadrille wedges are ideal for all-day use, while open-toed versions are popular in the fall.
Sneakers
Long skirts with sneakers might have been frowned upon once, but this is the kind of urban style that’s sweeping the fashion world! White sneakers have a pure beauty and a street-style edge to them, making them ideal for wearing with long dresses. While they’re adaptable, they look best with body-hugging maxis, high-slit shapes, and solid-colored dresses.
Strappy Sandals
Strappy flats like gladiator sandals assist ground your style while complementing the flowing elegance of your long dress, making them ideal for all-day casual comfort and function in the summer. For a breezy, boho style, pair these sneakers with loose-fitting garments.
Ankle Boots
In the winter months, the most attractive way to flatter a long dress is to pair it with ankle boots. These shoes are both practical and stylish, and they may give a touch of laid-back cool to the lovely sophistication of maxi dresses and long skirts.
Low Heels
Kitten heels and other low heels provide the necessary elevation without drawing attention to the fact that you are wearing heels. The shoe could be slingbacks or pumps, and there is no set guideline for how they should be worn. They usually go well with casual long dresses. Whether it’s a homecoming celebration or a brunch, such an outfit will make a statement.
Strappy Flat Sandals
Summer necessitates strappy sandals with no heel. T-straps, gladiators (ankle length or mid-calf), and flip-flops are all good choices for a beach holiday, especially if the dresses are flowy and loose fitting. The straps add to the dress’s simplicity, giving you a comfortable and relaxed look.
What Jewelry to Wear with Quintessential Long Dress Styles
Choosing an evening gown that you adore can be a difficult and gratifying undertaking, but the reality is that it doesn’t end there. The next step is to find the perfect jewellery to complement your evening outfit.
Metals, stones, hues, and patterns are all things to consider, and we’re here to assist you. We’ll tell you what jewellery to go with each outfit and show you three Amazon-compatible options.
Hair accessories
Tiaras and hairpieces such as pins are perfect to wear if you want your hairdo to stand out during an event. As long as the designs are delicate, it gives you a lovely and traditional appeal. If you’re creating an updo, these types of hair accessories are ideal. Silver is the most popular colour for tiaras and other hair ornaments. However, strike a balance; tiaras look best when your evening gown isn’t overly ornate.
Fxmimior Hair Vine Headpiece
You can choose from gold, rose gold, or silver for this hairpiece. Because of its exquisite and delicate form, the headpiece lends a royal air to the complete ensemble.
You can style your hair as you want and then tuck it in with a pin to finish the look.
Crystal, copper wire, beads, and rhinestones are used to form this headdress.
VIJIV Vintage Headpiece
The headgear is available in gold and silver tones. They’re perfect for any nighttime look, and the white crown doubles as a rustic head wreath.
You can acquire this headpiece to match with your evening gown if you want to cap it off with an exquisite yet feminine style.
Because it contains stones, you should choose complementing and simpler jewellery.
Pearl Hair Clips
We’ve got some handcrafted exquisite hair clips in a set of 12 current styles. With so many options, you may style your hair as you want and use multiple pearl hair clips to keep it in place for different occasions.
They’re comprised of hand-selected pearls and metal alloys that are meticulously joined by hand.
Necklaces
When wearing evening gowns, necklaces are a necessary unless you have huge gemmed earrings. Even so, you should maintain a visual equilibrium between the earrings and necklaces. The neckline of the dress will determine what you choose. If you’re wearing a strapless dress, you’ll want something that stands out, such a maxi dress in a bright colour with glitter and rhinestones. Long or short necklaces with distinctive pendants, as well as a choker or collar, are available.
Miraculous Garden Choker Necklace
Evening gowns are frequently paired with choker necklaces.
You might want to consider getting this one because it’s silver and goes with a variety of colours. Alloy metals, AAA rhinestones, and crystals make up the necklace’s construction.
You will also receive three additional design alternatives from the firm to suit your preferences.
LIAO Jewelry Collar Necklace
Another choker necklace, but this time with a twist. It’s a wide-collar crystal choker necklace that can be adjusted.
It has AA dazzling rhinestones bezel set in a long tassel pendant with clear crystals.
If you’re wearing a V-neck dress, this necklace is perfect. It comes in silver, gold, rose gold, and rainbow colours.
Holylove Costume Statement Necklace
Some of the jewellery that makes it to the red carpet is costume necklaces. A costume choker is a good choice if you want to feel glammed up.
This one is constructed of rhinestone beads and alloy chains by Holylove. Velvet is used in the back, which is soft on the skin.
It comes with little earrings with one rhinestone in each of the eight colour possibilities.
Necklace and Earring Sets
You can get a jewellery set if you don’t want to ponder about what necklace goes with what earrings. The necklace in each of these sets is a show-stopper, while the earrings are kept plain for balance. Let’s have a look.
Holyove Vintage Statement Necklace and Earrings Set
Pink, black, new red, tawny, green, and white are the colours offered for this set. You can also select a colour that complements your gown.
Given the necklace’s size and detail, it’s preferable to wear it with a simple evening gown. It’s also ideal if you want to get an antique look.
Glass beads with a gleaming finish are used.
BriLove Necklace and Dangle Earrings Set
With earrings, we have a lengthy necklace that sticks out.
The 20 colour options available in this package are what we enjoy about it. Whatever colour your gown is, you may be sure that you’ll obtain something that matches or complements it.
The stones on these pieces are Austrian Crystals, and the metal is a lead and nickel-free zinc alloy.
LILLIES & WHITE Crystal Necklace and Earrings Set
This necklace and earring set has a one-of-a-kind design that makes you look stunning and sophisticated.
Vintage rose, amethyst, siam, crystal, emerald, Montana, light sapphire, and white opal are among the seven colours available.
They are made of a zinc alloy that is lead and nickel free. It’s ideal for a range of occasions.
Earrings
The earrings you choose should be depending on the dress’s neckline as well as your desired haircut. If there are any embellishments on the upper section of the gown or if you’re wearing dazzling hair accessories, go with simpler earrings.
You don’t want the dress and the earrings to compete with each other. If you’re wearing a plain traditional evening gown, though, go for earrings that stick out. The stones you choose should match the hue of the outfit.
CHRAN Silver Long Tassels Dangle Earrings
Teardrops and tassels are a go-to design for when you have evening wear.
They are quite elegant, which makes them a favorite for many. With this CHRAN brand, you can get seven different designs of earrings that suit your taste and evening gown.
The earrings are made from Austrian rhinestones with silver-tone metal that’s highly polished for a dazzling finish.
MARIELLE Victoria Chandelier Pierced/clip-on Earrings
Here are some highly rated Amazon earrings from the same brand as the last pair.
They are available in three different colours: rose gold, gold, and silver. You have the choice of getting clip-on or piercing earrings with each.
The cubic zirconia stones on the earrings are AAAAA cubic zirconia with an oval cut for a vintage impression. The metal is also made of 14k gold.
MARIELL Earrings
These earrings have delicate french pierce backings and are composed of sparkling AAAAA cubic zirconia with a marquise cluster design.
The metal is made of platinum and silver rhodium, which gives it a lustrous sheen.
The earring is created in such a way that it covers the lobe and just below the lobe. If you have updos, this is ideal.
Rings
An evening gown with rings adds a touch of tenderness and romance. The colour, stones, and overall design should, once again, blend well with the rest of the ensemble.
It should also go well with the bracelet you’re wearing; make sure your hand doesn’t have too much going on.
Mytys Retro Vintage Statement Ring
If you’re wearing costume jewellery, this ring is a great way to finish it off.
A huge black and oval onyx stone sits on a vintage-style black crystal. When worn on the finger, the ring is highly polished, making it stand out.
You appear both elegant and graceful when you wear this ring.
RB Gems 925 Sterling Silver Ring
Here we have a 0.70-carat marquise-shaped gemstone set in a rhodium-plated ring.
This ring is available in four different hues. It’s perfect if you’re trying for a retro or Victorian aesthetic in general.
As previously stated, the metal used to produce this ring is 925 sterling silver, with a rhodium finish that gives it a mirror sheen.
PAVOI 14k Gold Plated 925 Sterling Silver Ring
There are three hues available for this ring: rose gold plated silver, yellow gold plated silver, and rhodium plated silver.
The benefit of such a ring is that you can wear it alone or stack it with others. It’s constructed of AAAAA cubic zirconia that’s been set in a Milgrain pattern.
When worn on your finger, the ring’s gleam and brightness make quite a statement.
Bracelets
The bracelets should complement the rest of your jewellery. The size and design you choose have a big impact on how the rest of the components look. If you’re wearing big jewellery with your gown, try for something sleeker to balance it out. Make sure the hue matches or enhances the rest of your jewellery.
Albert Weiss Bracelet
This brand offers a wide range of bracelets in various sizes.
You can choose between a simple bracelet with two rows of silver-plated rhinestones and a bracelet with ten rows.
You’re sure to find something that matches your wardrobe thanks to the eight size possibilities. In a nutshell, you can go as big or tiny as you choose.
OPK Crystal Bangle Bracelets
This brand offers three different hues. The bracelets are constructed of cubic zirconia, with big sapphire stones in blue, green, or white.
The stones are well-mounted and will not fall off.
The bracelet’s metal is gold plated, and it has a diamond-like appearance.
EVER FAITH Crystal Bracelet
We start off with a vintage-inspired clear crystal bracelet that stretches to accommodate various wrist sizes.
When you get it, it also comes with spare crystals that you can use to replace missing ones, and that’s probably after you accidentally snug the bracelet on your dress or something.
You can get this bracelet in a silver or gold-tone.
The examples we have here serve as starting points for the kind of jewelry to opt for when wearing an evening gown. From there, you are free to take the direction that best suits you.
If you’re unsure, take a photo of the entire ensemble and analyze it critically. Also, you can rope in the fashionistas in your life to let you know if your jewelry together makes a yay or nay.
FAQs – Quintessential Long Dress Styles
Are long dresses in style?
Long dress styles have been fashionable since the dawn of time, in fact, from the dawn of time. Long dress styles were worn by both men and women throughout the early days of civilisation, however short dress styles were also popular. Throughout much of history, women were required to wear long, ankle-length to floor-length skirts. They are still the most popular dress style for all types of formal dress events, prom dresses, and evening dress styles.
Long dresses are still fashionable and fashionable now. Maxi dresses are one of the most popular dress styles, with many of the world’s most fashionable people wearing them on a regular basis.
Which long dress styles can shorter people wear?
Even if it’s not always simple, shorter folks can nonetheless wear long dresses. Straight-cut dresses will make you appear much shorter than you are. Select a dress with plenty of shape and dimension. A wrap dress, for example, with a defined waist, will create a distinct divide between your top half and your lower half. This will make you appear taller, or at the very least not as short.
If you’re wearing a long dress, make sure the bottoms of your feet are visible. Make sure your dress isn’t longer than your ankles. This will assist give your look a little lift and more separation, giving you the illusion of being taller.
What types of long dresses have a slimming effect?
Some lengthy dresses look better on women than others. Some lengthy dresses are designed to make you appear thinner than you actually are. You can look leaner by wearing a column dress that hangs straight down the body. The flared skirt of the loose-fitting harem dress hides the curves, giving it a slimming look. The maxi dress’s long, flowing lines are also quite flattering, giving you a slimming impression regardless of your body type.
Which types of long dresses should every woman have?
Having a few good long dresses in your closet is a fantastic idea. A timeless maxi dress that may be worn casually or semi-formally is always a good choice. You’ll also want to invest in at least one evening gown, which you may wear to formal events. A sleek column style or mermaid gown will create a wonderful impact instead of a full ball gown.
Which long dresses look good with boots?
Boots were practically intended for wearing with maxi dresses. Boots in any size, from ankle-high to mid-calf to knee-high, look wonderful with these dresses. Combat boots with dresses was a 1990s fad that has long passed its prime, although the look is now considered retro. Pair combat boots with kaftans and harem dresses for a bohemian look. Midi dresses can be difficult to match with boots because of their length, but if you keep the height short, like ankle high boots, this can be a cute appearance.
Which types of long dresses are business casual?
Long dresses, unlike short dresses, have the ability to appear more formal or semi-formal. Long dresses can appear too fancy or excessive for the office if they aren’t worn correctly. Maxi dresses, midi dresses, and tea length dresses may all be worn to the office if you pair them with basic jewellery and accessories.
What are good long dress styles for weddings?
Long gowns are quite popular in all sorts of bridal wear. Ball gown and bouffant dress styles are frequently seen in wedding gowns. Both the bride and the bridesmaids wear column gowns. Mermaid shapes are a popular choice for bridal gowns. Bridesmaid dresses in the midi and tea length lengths are popular selections.
Which types of long dresses hide belly fat?
Maxi dresses with a loose shape are ideal for concealing tummy fat or a pregnant belly. A column dress, which also fits loosely, can disguise a somewhat bloated stomach. Kaftans and airy harem dresses, both of which are rather spacious, can also assist cover your stomach.
Which body structure and shape can wear long dresses?
Long dresses can be worn by anyone but you may not be able to wear every style of long dress available. Some gowns are flattering for almost everyone. A classic ball gown, for example, is almost always appropriate. It does, however, work particularly well on pear-shaped bodies. This dress silhouette will look great on you if you’re a touch broader in the hips and back but narrower up top.
Mermaid gowns are extremely flattering on hourglass shapes. The gown’s lines serve to slim down your waist and make it appear smaller. In a column gown, straighter body shapes, those with a more rectangle form, look great.
What shoes do you wear with a maxi dress?
One of the reasons maxi dresses are so popular is because they are difficult to go wrong with. Maxi dresses can be styled in a variety of ways and paired with a variety of footwear. They’ll look great with hefty boots, smooth strappy heels, lovely heeled sandals, or even flip flops. Depending on the shoes you choose to pair with it, a maxi dress can range from casual to formal. A maxi style is the right dress for you if you’re looking for a soft cotton dress, a gorgeous chiffon number, or a silk gown.
How should you style a long dress?
Long dresses are enjoyable to experiment with because they can be styled in a variety of ways. Pair a long dress with shoes and a wide straw handbag for a casual look. With a pair of sunglasses on top, you’ll be ready for all kinds of spring and summer activities. Strappy sandals, a lovely purse, and some statement earrings will make your appearance a little more semi-formal. With aggressive high heels, a smart clutch, and an updo that shows off a fantastic necklace, you can pull off a truly glam and formal outfit.
Play around with different long dress looks. Because fashion is intended to be enjoyable, and great style is all about breaking the rules and wearing what you want. So go ahead and try new things till you establish your own distinctive style.