You probably don’t realise, but you might already have some chiffon dress style options in your wardrobe. Chiffon is commonly used for eveningwear, particularly dresses, as it adds a sheer look of beauty and elegance. However, because of its lightness and tactile feel, it’s also used in decorative shirts, blouses, scarves and those incredibly feminine luxury lingerie items.Â
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No other fabric is quite so flowing and soft or drapes so well on your body. You can recognise chiffon dress styles instantly because they look like someone managed to stitch together fluffy clouds. Available in the most beautiful colours, chiffon looks and feels amazing. Once you’ve tried it, these pretty designs will be a firm favourite for everything from full-on glitz to understated casual style.
Why Chiffon Is Synonymous With Refined Elegance
This gorgeous smooth fabric is always used in luxury clothing as it’s normally made of silk. However, chiffon is also woven into sheer cotton, nylon or polyester as affordable and durable alternatives. It has a slightly shiny look and a semi-mesh weave that creates a slight transparency. Polyester chiffon is extremely popular, but designers love the premium silk option because of its strength, sheer texture and delicate shimmer.Â
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Here are just a few alternatives for chiffon dress styles:
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- Silk Crepe Chiffon - this has an opaque, voluminous texture perfect for lightweight dresses or skirts and adding decorative finishings.
- Double-Faced Chiffon - has two contrasting layers used to create flowing chiffon dress styles, skirts and blouses.
- Silk Satin Chiffon - this beautiful material is transparent with a slightly glossy finish on one side, perfect for eveningwear and prom dresses or skirts.
- Chameleon Chiffon - iridescent and floaty, this isn’t just for chiffon dress styles but also everything from pyjamas to chic stoles and scarves.
- Jacquard Chiffon - thin, opaque fabric that drapes beautifully, this type is used to make the most exquisite designer clothing and wedding dresses.
- Lurex Chiffon - for a sheer, glistening finish, this material adds luxury to the delicate insets or upper layers of chiffon dress styles, skirts or blouses.
7 Ways To Effortlessly Wear Chiffon Dress Styles
These versatile dresses will always get you party ready, but they’re also fabulous for more relaxed occasions. There are low-key dresses, high-impact designs and classy chiffon office gown styles. From the most romantic floaty dinner date dresses to glistening overlay chiffon for a wedding, there’s something for everyone. You’ll find maxi and midi dresses, flowing skirts and chiffon top styles in the most flattering designs and colours.
1. Layer Up In Winter
Although you might think chiffon dresses are only appropriate in warmer months, it’s a wonderful fabric for all seasons. Incorporate it in winter for a polished look, and let sleeves come to your rescue. Dresses with long sleeves or an overlay provide minimal effort, or you can reach for a trendy layered look with knits and jumpers. Pair your chiffon dress with a fur jacket or trench coat if you want a chic vibe. Add glam with high suede boots and street style with chunky loafers.
2. Summer Is A BreezeÂ
You can float your way through the heat with chiffon dress styles in bright colours, floral designs, and bold animal prints. Halter necks and chiffon wrap dresses are ideal, and thin straps or cross-backs are great with a sun-kissed glow. You can stick with versatile maxis or swap them for girly minis with cute ruffles or leg-lengthening pleats. Try whimsical florals cinched at the waist. With summer sandals, sunglasses and a straw hat, they’re also the ultimate little dress for that special holiday.
3. Delicious Dinner Dates
For many reasons, the chiffon dress can be your perfect companion on any date night. They’re femininely seductive and elegant and drape beautifully every time you move. They can help you transition from inside to outside without feeling uncomfortable by layering. Finally, if you end up dancing, most chiffon dress styles look glorious with every step to the music. Be demure and coy in long sleeves, or pair a classic chiffon overlay look with sparkly accessories and high heels for an eye-catching combination.Â
4. It’s Party Time
You’ll need an extra special chiffon dress when a celebration’s on the horizon. There are some stunning pleated designs and glamorous tiered chiffon dress styles to create a striking look. Explore stand-out colours and figure-hugging long dresses that add some catwalk glamour. One-shoulder and off-the-shoulder dresses look particularly stunning. A little black sheath dress with subtle beading or slim straps and a layered hem makes a gorgeous classic cocktail outfit.
5. Wedding Bell Days
Chiffon dresses, in general, are perfect for wedding guest invites at any time of the year. Stick with lighter pastel colours, soft materials and relaxed, casual designs. Fabrics in floral prints or dual tones work well for daytime and move seamlessly into the evening reception. Choose a floaty chiffon overlay, ruffles, a tiered hem, or a tie waistline to give the dress an element of luxe detail. Remember to accessorise with some lovely jewellery and don’t forget, as they will be on show, that what shoes you wear with a midi dress or mini must compliment your outfit.
6. Relaxed Weekend Vibes
Chiffon dress styles need switching down a level when you’re off duty and a casual day is called for. Team your dress with dark-coloured leggings or classic blue jeans to achieve a modern look with street cred. Keep your ensemble fresh with puffy short sleeves, V-necks or lovely lace insets that draw attention to the detail. Finally, pair it with oversized accessories, like a chunky knit or sweatshirt in a neutral colour, to complete the outfit.Â
7. Vintage Street Style
Chiffon dress styles have remained in vogue since their first appearance in the mid-19th century. Chiffon and tulle are always associated with vintage-style dresses, so you’re in your element if you adore this look. You’ll find long, voluminous or flared sleeves and unique, bold retro prints and designs. On the other hand, if 60s hippy happy is more your style, try vintage chiffon maxi dresses and flower power prints. Add a matching beaded waistband for a sleek boho street style that never goes out of fashion.
From Chic Chiffon To Corporate Chiffon Gowns
Before you dismiss chiffon as strictly eveningwear, experiment to see how easy it is to make them work for you. From relaxed lunches with your friends to party time events, there are chiffon dress styles to suit the moment. Elegant chiffon dress shirts, slip dresses and gowns even look fabulous as an office look.
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Check out our collections and how to style a slip dress for further ideas. It’s all about getting creative, so why not explore the ideas at NA-KD and mix up your repertoire?