How to Live Your Best Life in a Slip Dress in the Year 2020

It's the year 2020 [1], but when it comes to slip dresses, it might as well be 1995 [2], because the trend is going strong — just as strong as it was when Jennifer Aniston was wearing those slinky, sultry little numbers [3] as Rachel Green on Friends and, of course, on the red carpet.

While there are commonly details on the slip dress that make it seem fit for the bedroom — romantic lace and spaghetti-thin straps, to name a couple — the boudoir mood can be channeled in the streets, and there are so many ways to do it. A slip dress is lightweight enough to layer, and it's one of the only wardrobe staples that looks just as good under a chunky knit or floor-length coat as it does over a ribbed turtleneck or your favorite long sleeve.

It's also one of those date night go-to basics [4] that can easily be worn to the office underneath an oversize blazer during the day — and we know you don't have too many versatile items like that in your closet! Ahead, we're breaking down everything there is to know about a slip dress in its most recognizable iteration, and also offering you prime styling tips [5], along with some of our favorite shopping options if you're low on stock.

What Is a Slip Dress?

A slip dress, in its most original form, is a silk or satin sheath that's technically thin enough to be worn under another layer (or maybe something sheer). Generally, slip dresses have spaghetti straps, and they were a trend staple during the '90s. Perhaps you associate them with Jennifer Aniston's signature look [7] during her Friends days, and you wouldn't be wrong.

How to Style a Slip Dress in 2020

The look this year, as inspired by the runways, is a slip dress worn underneath a thick, floor-length coat. Many women are styling them with knee-high leather boots so that the top of the boot disappears under the hemline of the dress, creating a fluid street style moment. With the addition of an oversize pouch [8], the look is boudoir-chic and luxe.

What Do You Wear on Top of a Slip Dress?

Slip dresses are made for layering. We especially like the idea of creating a monochrome outfit by throwing on a chunky knit in a slightly different shade than the silk material of your slip. This also throws everyone for a loop — is she wearing a skirt? Is it a dress? Add a long wool coat to achieve a sophisticated vibe, or try out a pair of sneakers with a bomber or ski jacket if you tend toward the sportier side.

What Shoes Do You Wear With a Slip Dress?

While knee-high boots (or any boot that disappears under the hemline of the slip) work well, a mule can be extremely chic in warmer weather. If you want to go for a total '90s vibe, try a minimalist strappy sandal for date night. Don't be afraid to give your outfit a Western kick with a tall cowboy boot.

How to Wear a Slip Dress With Sneakers

Sure, it's doable. We recommend adding even more casual details to your look, like a bucket hat or a relaxed sweater thrown over the shoulders. Try wearing your simple-colored slip dress with Chuck Taylors or a different high-rise shoe that harkens back to the '90s. You can achieve the ultimate grunge outfit with a flannel on top.

Can I Wear a Slip Dress to Work?

To take this sultry dress from the bedroom (or a night out) to the office takes some outfit planning. Go for all-black accoutrements and add a modest blazer and work bag to the look so you appear polished first and foremost.

Where to Buy a Slip Dress

When Spring comes, we like to shop slip dresses in poppy prints, though we highly recommend everyone owns at least one neutral design. Scroll ahead for some of our favorite picks right now that run the gamut from florals and animal print to ladylike lace and cowl-neck cuts.