10 Ways to Wear a Slip Dress, According to Celebrity Stylists

Lately, wearing your underwear as outerwear has seen an uptick in popularity — take the slip dress, for instance. First layered underneath dresses or skirts, slips allowed clingy materials to hang properly and provided more coverage against sheer garments (and they still do). However, at some point in the 1990s, it became evident that the slip dress could work on its own as many celebrity proponents — from Sara Jessica Parker to Iman — began stepping out in the slinky staple. It evolved from an undergarment with a purely functional purpose to one with a unique aesthetic appeal. Fast forward to over two decades later, and slip dresses are yet another iconic '90s trend making a comeback this season.

Intrigued? Us too. That's why we tapped a slew of stylists to get their best advice on how to wear a slip dress like the fashion set. Ahead, check out 10 expert-approved slip dress outfits, along with pro styling tips, that you'll want to wear all year long.

Add Layers

Celebrity stylist Andrew Gelwicks wants you to know there's a lot you can do with a slip dress between the winter and spring seasons, and fellow stylist Tanya Tamburin agrees. The key, they say, is to layer — a lot and often, in myriad ways. "In the winter months don't be afraid to pile on the layers – chunky knits, hooded sweatshirts, tailored blazers, chic overcoats on top, and thin long-sleeved tops and tights layered underneath," Tamburin says. "To begin the transition from winter to spring, simply swap those heavier pieces for lighter knits, flannels, denim and leather jackets, and basic t-shirts or band tees layered underneath," she adds.

Create Contrast

Slip dresses are soft and slim-fitting, so if you're looking to add interest to your look, incorporate contrast both in terms of style and silhouette (see: chunky boots and/ or a puffer coat). According to celebrity stylist Tiffany Briseno, the combination will feel balanced and can be executed through accessories, too. "For example, a pearl choker with a silver punk chain will tie in the entire narrative [and] round out your look," she says.

Make It Athleisure

Attention athleisure fans: A slip dress can work for your aesthetic. Tamburin suggests starting with a lace-trimmed slip dress and then adding your coziest hoodie or sweatshirt and pair of sneakers. The result? "An effortlessly chic, cool-girl look," she says.

Go '90s Grunge

Slip dresses as stand-alone outfits was a concept born and bred in the '90s. Pay homage to its era of origin by pairing a slip with a substantial leather jacket to give the item "just the right amount of edge," says Tamburin. For even more grungy contrast, add super-opaque black tights combined with chunky heels, platforms, or moto boots, she adds.

Keep It Office-Appropriate

If you're headed into the office, Tamburin suggests pairing your favorite slip dress with an oversized blazer and combat boots for a trendy ensemble that's also appropriate for the workplace. "The boots will give the dress an edgy vibe while the blazer will keep you looking professional and polished," she says.

Opt for Sneakers Over Heels

Sneakers and slips are a pairing that stylist Caitlin Jaymes highly encourages. "Opt for a dress with a slit [to] allow more movement in the dress, so it doesn't get stuck to your hips and thighs," she shares. "The slit will also add a feminine touch to balance out the masculine style of the sneaker."

Enhance With Accessories

According to Jaymes, slips are one of the pieces to dress up for an event, since they're typically made of shiny satin, giving them a naturally formal feel. To spruce up the look even more, just incorporate accessories. "Add on layered necklaces, bracelets, statement earrings, a fun ring, and a great pair of heels and you're ready," she tells us.

Channel Your Inner Cowgirl

These days, cowboy boots go with just everything — slip dresses included. The rugged footwear provides a nice contrast to the delicate garment. Depending on the weather, you may want to throw on an extra layer, be it a shrug, denim jacket, or your outerwear of choice.

Throw On an Oversized Sweater

When the weather is on the cooler side, wear your slip dress outfit with a sweater or an oversized top to give the illusion that you're wearing a silky midi skirt, suggests fashion designer Ramy Brook. To style this outfit, "Take a belt and wrap around the smallest part of your waist and then billow out the sweater over top to create a 'tucked in' look," instructs Brook.

Cinch With a Belt

Because slip dresses can sometimes fall a little looser on the body, Brook suggests adding a corset or a belt to emphasize her waist — but "not a typical belt," she stresses. Instead, use a long necklace (bonus points if it is multi-strand) to clasp around your waist. "Let the tail of the necklace hang loose and pull toward the front side of your hip," she advises. "Then load up on the bracelets and rings and add a cute pair of sneakers. This outfit can work for so many places and to dress it up, all you have to do is change the shoes."