There is no simpler outfit than a dress. One piece, and you are dressed, comfortable and put together in thirty seconds – without having to match top to pants. A really good everyday dress is therefore the hardest-working garment in your wardrobe: it gets you through work, errands, lunch and evening without you thinking about it once.
In this guide, we'll go over what characterizes a really good everyday dress, which models are worth having, and how you can easily style the same dress from everyday to evening and from summer to fall.
That's why the everyday dress is brilliant
A casual dress replaces an entire outfit. Where a top and pants require you to choose, match and check that they fit well together, a dress does all that for you. The result looks well thought out even on those mornings when you don't have the energy to think at all. Add to that the fact that it's airy and comfortable in the heat, easy to move in and simple to dress up or down – and you'll understand why it deserves a central place in your wardrobe.
What characterizes a good everyday dress?
The difference between a dress that stays in your closet and one you wear time and time again lies in a few details:
- Beautiful, easy-care material. Knitwear, cotton and viscose breathe, feel soft against the skin and can withstand frequent washing.
- A versatile cut. A wrap, A-line or shirt dress flatters most people and works just as well for everyday wear as it does for evening wear.
- Pockets. Perhaps the most underrated detail – practical and convenient, and you don't have to carry a bag.
- A fit you can move in. A dress you constantly have to pull on and adjust will never feel right.
Want to read more about how different cuts flatter your figure? Metro Fashion a nice review. A summer dress with V-neck and high waist is a comfortable and flattering everyday choice.
The models to choose from
Some cuts are especially appreciated in everyday life:
- T-shirt dress: the casual favorite in soft jersey – simple, comfortable and easy to throw on.
- Shirtwaist: Buttoning at the front and preferably a belt at the waist; office-friendly and stylish.
- Wrapped: Defines the waist, is adjustable and flatters most people.
- A-line: sits close to the body at the top and falls airily downwards – comfortable and elegant at the same time.
A light sleeveless summer dress is perfect for hot days, while a knee-length summer dress with short sleeves provides a little more coverage.
How to dress it up and down
The beauty of the everyday dress is how little it takes to change up your look. For a casual day, clean sneakers and a roomy tote bag are enough. In the summer, switch to flat sandals and a straw bag, and when it cools down, take out a denim jacket or cardigan. If you suddenly want to wear the dress for an evening out, just add a blazer, a pair of heels and some nice jewelry. A narrow belt highlights the waist when you want to give the look more shape. Find the right one among our shoes, jackets and bags.
From summer to autumn
A casual dress doesn't have to be put away when summer ends. The summery model you wore with bare legs and sandals gets new life in the fall together with tights, a pair of boots and a knitted cardigan or jacket over it. This way you can extend its use over many more months of the year. If you want more ideas, we have guides on how to style a midi dress and if knitted dresses for those really cold days.
Pockets, comfort and care
Everyday dress should be easy to live with. Prioritize easy-care materials that can be machine washed, so you don't have to worry about hand washing in the middle of the week – you can find more about different fabrics in our guide on materials in dresses. And the pockets, again: they make everyday life noticeably easier. A dress with pockets is a practical choice for those who like to have their mobile phone and keys close at hand.
Our favorites right now
- Summer dress with V-neck and high waist – comfortable, flattering and easy to style.
- Light sleeveless summer dress – airy favorite for warm days.
- Dress with pockets – practical and comfortable all year round.
Explore more models among our women's dresses – with free shipping within Sweden.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good everyday dress?
An everyday dress in a comfortable, easy-care material like jersey, cotton or viscose, with a versatile cut like wrap, A-line or shirt dress, and preferably with pockets. Most importantly, you can move comfortably in it all day.
Which casual dress has pockets?
Many t-shirt, shirt and knit dresses have pockets, which is both practical and convenient in everyday life. This means you don't have to carry a bag and have the most important things close at hand.
How do you style an everyday dress?
Wear it with sneakers and a tote bag for everyday wear, or flat sandals and a straw bag in the summer. When it cools down, add a denim jacket or cardigan, and for a night out, dress it up with a blazer, heels and finer jewelry.
Can you wear a casual dress in the fall?
Yes, a summery everyday dress works well in the fall too. Add tights, a pair of boots and a knitted cardigan or blazer, and the summer garment transforms into an autumn look.
What material is best for an everyday dress?
Jersey, cotton and viscose are comfortable, breathable and easy to care for, making them ideal for a dress you wear often. They can also withstand many washes.
What everyday dress suits most people?
A wrap or A-line dress with a defined waist and V-neck flatters most body shapes and works equally well from day to night.
