Styling Casual Dresses for Different Occasions

Nothing beats the versatility of a well-chosen casual dress, especially as the warm weather rolls in! From popping to the shops to celebrating with friends, casual dresses come in a range of styles to suit different informal settings. Let’s dive into the best options for various occasions and how to adapt each look with accessories and layering.

Shopping Trips

When you’re running errands, you want a casual relaxed dress that’s especially comfortable, which is why a shift dress will be a good bet. With a loose fit and straight cut, a shift dress easily lets you move about while you’re getting things done.

Midi dresses are another great option for laid-back outings. With a length between knee to mid-calf, they’re sufficiently neat for expeditions, without looking overly dressy. They also keep your thighs well covered, whilst allowing for airflow to your legs on warm summer days. Plus they come in a range of styles, so you can find one that suits your shape.

In summer, the fabrics like cotton or linen are great options as they’re breathable and lightweight. Your feet need to be comfortable, so consider shoes like sneakers, practical sandals or ballet flats.

Catch-ups with Buddies

A brunch, picnic, or summer music festival with your mates requires a balance of fun and comfort. Boho dresses are a great option, with their eye-catching prints, feminine cuts, and cute features like bell or flute sleeves, tassels and embroidery. Babydoll dresses are another great option, with their relaxed fit and femenine cut.

Again, these are casual dresses so you want to stay comfy. Strappy sandals or canvas sneakers are good options here. A woven bag or bucket bag will work well with both babydoll dresses. Add jewellery, like bracelets or colourful earrings, and if you want to emphasise the boho vibes, look for jewellery in natural materials, like wood or seed beads, feather earrings or shells. You don’t need much, especially if you want to keep the look casual. 

Party Time!

This is always a tough one—the casual party. You don’t want to look overly formal, but you want to look a little ‘extra’. Print dresses are a great option, as you can find versions in a super comfortable fabric and style, whilst still looking fabulous. Also, bold prints are easy to dress up with the right accessories, and the whole look can be transformed into something more dressy. 

When it comes to prints, the world is your oyster! Generally floral dresses give off fresh and feminine vibes. Opt for bigger flowers and brighter colours if you want to make a bold statement. If you want to look a little wild, then animal prints are an ideal choice. And if your vibe is arty, choose an abstract print. 

Regarding the cut of the dress and the length, shorter hems are playful and will keep you a little lighter on the dance floor. Longer hems, from midi-length to ankle, will offer a more modest and elegant look if you’re heading out to a dinner or something slightly more formal.

Dress up your look with wedges or strappy heels (a bit of extra height just turns your look from day to evening). Add a clutch purse and statement jewellery like earrings or a beautiful necklace or bracelet. And if the temperature is likely to drop, make sure you bring along a layering piece that matches well with your dress, whether it be a crop jacket, leather jacket, or wrap.

The Workplace

Yes, this is about casual dresses rather than work dresses, but these days, plenty of workplaces have very casual dress codes, or at least a weekly ‘casual dress’ day. Either way, a shirt dress is always a great option, with its mix of neat professional silhouette with casual comfort. The collared neckline and button-down front of a shirt adds structure, making for a professional look. 

Add a statement belt, to bring shape to the dress, if it doesn’t already have a waist tie. In terms of dress colour choice, neutral tones, like white, black, pale blue all work well for work, but you could also opt for a brighter colour or an elegant print. Fabric-wise, your shirt dress is likely to be made with cotton, linen or viscose, however you might come across polyester versions too. Opt for the plant-derived fabrics if you’re seeking ultimate breathability. If your workplace is nicely air-conditioned, polyester is also a good choice and has a more relaxed drape.

Remember to keep your footwear work comfortable and stylish. Opt instead for colours that complement the prints of the dress. In terms of a bag, a structured shoulder bag or a mini top handle bag will work well. Don’t forget to bring along a light blazer or cardigan to throw over your arms if you need—just make sure it works with your dress.

Beach Good Times

A day at the beach calls for a dress you can easily slip on and off, especially if swimming is on the agenda. You also need something breathable and light. 

A linen dress or lightweight maxi dress are great options. A short-to-midi-length linen dress is super easy to wear, and with linen’s moisture-wicking properties, you will stay cool. 

A maxi dress is another good option, as it can cover up a little more skin from the sun, whilst looking relaxed and elegant. Just make sure you choose a lightweight fabric for your maxi, as you don’t want to be hot or weighed down.

If you’re heading to a beach party, consider feminine and fun casual dresses with off-the-shoulder designs, spaghetti straps or with halter necks. Strappy sandals are the perfect footwear option, as you can easily slip them off to walk on the sand if you want.

Summer stroll

If you’re hitting the pavement for a stroll, you need a casual dress that’s easy to move in and doesn’t constrict your legs. A short dress or a shift dress will work well. Aim for breathable fabrics, like cotton or linen, or if you need a little stretch, choose a dress in cotton jersey. Throw on walking sandals or sneakers and a little backpack or cross-body bag so your hands are free. And don’t forget the hat, sunnies and sunscreen!