The off-shoulder dress, or bardot dress as it is also called, is one of the most feminine pieces of the summer and party season. By leaving the shoulders bare, it highlights the collarbone and cleavage, giving an elegant yet slightly daring look. A off shoulder dress is also surprisingly versatile – with the right bra, accessories and styling, you can wear it just as easily to a summer wedding as to a casual dinner.
In this guide, we'll go over why the off-shoulder dress is so flattering, what bra to choose under it, how to style it with accessories, dress it up and down, cover your shoulders when it gets cold, and choose the right fit for your body shape. Below, we'll answer the most frequently asked questions.
Content
- That's why the off-shoulder dress is so stylish
- The right bra under an off-shoulder dress
- Accessories that elevate the look
- Dress up and down the dress
- Covering when it cools down
- Fit and body shape
- Our favorites right now
- Frequently asked questions
- Summary
That's why the off-shoulder dress is so stylish
Off shoulder simply means that the dress has no straps and leaves only the shoulders. The classic bardot model has a wide edge that sits close to the neck and frames the shoulders, and is available in several variations – completely sleeveless, with short puff sleeves high up, or with long sleeves worn low on the arms. A big advantage is that the style suits most people: it broadens the shoulder line, draws the eye upwards and fits equally well on those who are shorter or taller. The models are available in everything from light cotton and floral patterns to lace, ruffles and elegant festive fabrics.
The right bra under an off-shoulder dress
The most common question about off-shoulder dresses is about the bra – and there are several smart solutions:
- Bra without straps (strapless): provides support and security and is the first choice for most people.
- Self-adhesive adhesive bra: a discreet solution without visible straps, often with reusable cups that provide bust support.
- Bandeau: a simple, comfortable variant that works nicely under lighter models.
- Fashion tape: Not an alternative to a bra, but a perfect complement that keeps the edge in place and prevents gaps when you move.
If you want to skip the bra altogether under a lower-cut model, nipple covers can keep everything discreet. Find the right support among our bras, and read more in our guide about what to wear under a dress. Hunkemoller has more tips on underwear for different dresses.
Accessories that elevate the look
Since the shoulders and neck are bare, accessories around the face get extra space. A pair of statement earrings really come into their own – choose studs or thin hoops that complement the shoulder line without competing with it. Keep the necklace short and discreet, or skip it altogether, so that the open shoulder is the focus. An updo highlights both shoulders and earrings nicely. If you are wearing a midi dress, a thin belt at the waist can give a more defined silhouette, and a shoulder bag, a straw hat or a scarf complete the summery look. See our selection of women's bags.
Dress up and down the dress
The same off-shoulder dress can carry multiple looks depending on the material and styling. A model in cotton, linen or stretch feels casual and works well with a pair of sneakers or flat sandals and minimal accessories.If you want to dress it up for a party, choose silk, satin or chiffon and complement with heels, a small clutch and statement earrings. A off shoulder party dress is perfect for the evening, while a strapless summer dress with sequins elevates a festive event. Find the right shoes among our women's shoes.
Covering when it cools down
The off-shoulder style is cool and airy, but sometimes you want to cover your shoulders – when the evening gets cooler or during a ceremony. A bolero, a stylish cardigan or a shawl solves this elegantly. Feel free to drape it loosely over your shoulders so that you retain some of the open, feminine feel. If you want more ideas, we have a guide on what to wear over a sleeveless dress. Complete with a garment from our women's cardigans or women's jackets.
Fit and body shape
The most important thing about an off-shoulder dress is that the hem is secure, so that it doesn't slide down. Choose a model with a wider, pleated or elastic hem that stays in place – and try the dress on before you decide. When it comes to figure, off-shoulder suits most people: it broadens the shoulders and therefore creates a nice balance if you have wider hips, while also drawing the eye upwards. If you have a fuller bust, a supportive, strapless bra is especially important – read more in our guide on dresses for big bust. If you want to know more about what suits your figure, we have a whole guide about which dress suits your body shape.
Our favorites right now
Three off-the-shoulder and strapless favorites:
- Off-shoulder party dress – feminine and elegant for the evening.
- Strapless summer dress with sequins – festive and summery at the same time.
- Sleeveless off-the-shoulder dress with sequins – sparkly and easy to style.
Find more models among our women's dresses – with free shipping within Sweden.
Frequently asked questions
How do you style an off-shoulder dress?
Accentuate bare shoulders with statement earrings and an updo, and keep the necklace discreet. Dress up the look with heels, a clutch and more festive fabrics, or dress it down with sneakers and a simpler model in cotton or linen.
What bra do you wear under an off-shoulder dress?
A strapless bra provides the best support, while an adhesive bra or bandeau are discreet options. Clothing tape holds the edge in place, and nipple covers work if you want to go braless under a lower cut.
Does off-shoulder suit all body shapes?
Yes, off-shoulder dresses suit most people. The style broadens the shoulder line and creates balance if you have wider hips, while also drawing the eye upwards and suits both shorter and longer bodies. A defined waist gives extra shape.
What to wear over an off-shoulder dress when it's cool?
A bolero, a stylish cardigan or a shawl work well. It's best to drape it loosely over your shoulders so you retain some of the open, feminine feel.
What accessories go with an off-shoulder dress?
Statement earrings, a shoulder bag and preferably a straw hat or scarf in the summer. Keep the necklace short and discreet, or skip it, so that only the shoulders are the focus.
Can you wear an off-shoulder dress for everyday wear?
Yes, a cotton, linen or stretch model works great for everyday wear with sneakers and minimal accessories. Save silk, satin and chiffon for more festive occasions.
Summary
The off-shoulder dress is feminine, trendy and incredibly versatile. Start with the right bra – usually a strapless one – and elevate the look with statement earrings and an updo. Dress it up with heels and festive fabric or down with sneakers and cotton, cover your shoulders with a bolero when it cools down, and choose a model with a secure hem that stays in place. With a few simple moves, you can wear the same off-shoulder dress from a summer wedding to a casual dinner.
Ready to find your favorite? Explore our women's dresses.
