Women’s Dresses FAQs

What are the most popular dress styles for women?

Women's dresses come in dozens of cuts.

Four of the most popular silhouettes include:

• Shirtdress. A relaxed, button-front cut for errands or brunch.
• Wrap dress. An adjustable waist tie that moves easily from the office to dinner.
• Column dress. A sleek, fitted line for evening events.
• Shift dress. A straight-cut style that mirrors knee-length dresses in length and works equally well for errands or the office.

How do I choose a dress that flatters my body shape?

Certain silhouettes tend to suit certain body shapes best.

• Pear shapes. A fit-and-flare dress balances fuller hips.
• Apple shapes. A dark, flowing silhouette skims past the middle and creates one long line.
• Hourglass shapes. A wrap dress follows the natural waistline.
• Petite frames. A knee-length hem keeps proportions balanced.

Find a Chico’s boutique near you to try on different styles and discover the right one for your body type.

What’s the difference between maxi, midi, and mini dresses?

Dress length changes the occasion a dress works best for.

• Mini length. A hemline that hits above the knee suits warm days out.
• Midi length. A hemline that falls between the knee and calf, making midi dresses great for the office or dinner.
• Maxi length. Maxi dresses have a floor-length hem that suits vacation getaways or weddings.

What are the essential dress styles every woman should own?

A dress capsule can carry a wardrobe from weddings to work events with just a few pieces.

• Little black dress. Works for nearly any event and pairs with whatever accessories are on hand.
• A-line dress. A structured cut that flatters nearly any body type.
• Casual shirtdress. Layers over leggings in cooler weather or stands alone on warm days.
• Travel dress. Wrinkle-resistant knits are easy to pack and comfortable enough to travel in.

What are the most breathable fabrics for ladies' dresses?

Fabric affects how a dress breathes and moves, and a few materials show up most across dresses for women.

• Linen. A breathable, natural fiber that stays cool in warm climates.
• Cotton. A soft, everyday fabric that breathes well for daytime wear.
• Chiffon. A lightweight fabric that drapes softly for warm evenings.
• Wrinkle-resistant blends. A wrinkle-free fabric blend that bounces back after being folded in a bag.