The 8 Dresses Every Woman Should Own

POPSUGAR Photography | Maria del Rio
POPSUGAR Photography | Maria del Rio
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Trends may come and go, but these dresses will always be a mainstay in our closets. Sure, we may gravitate toward different styles depending on the season and "what's in," but if you stick to these eight essential silhouettes, you'll never be without the right look for any occasion — and we've thought of them all.

From a formal dress (yes, we all need one!) to a work standby, you'll be the girl who has it all just by having these few pieces. Scroll on to see what to shop and why it's worth it.

The Work Sheath

The Work Sheath

Even if your office doesn't have a "dress code" in place, you'll be happy you have a polished sheath dress in your closet for everything from interviews to a big presentation at work. Choose one like this one from J.Crew ($148) that's easy to change up with a jacket, jewelry, and your footwear of choice.

The Maxi

The Maxi

For the days when jeans just won't do, the maxi dress ($157) is a perfect alternative. It's comfortable to travel in, it's easy to layer up, and it works all year. Long story short, it's a must.

The Day Dress

The Day Dress

There are days when your jeans and t-shirts just won't cut it; that's when a perfect day dress like this poplin dress from Tibi ($450) comes into play. You won't feel overdressed if you wear it to brunch with friends, and you'll certainly feel more polished for dinners out. It's not a special-occasion dress, but it's an elevated alternative to your basics that you'll rely on weekly, if not daily.

The Sweater Dress

The Sweater Dress

When the weather starts to cool, you'll be happy you have a go-to sweater dress like this one from Everlane ($160) in your arsenal to wear with boots and tights all Fall and Winter. It's a perfect layering piece.

The Formal Dress

The Formal Dress

For wedding season, formal dinners, and special events, it becomes pretty essential to have an appropriate dress. That means something formal and full length, like this Jill by Jill Stuart gown ($595). Opt for one in a color or print that flatters your complexion and can be reinvented each time you wear it just by switching out the accessories.

The Sundress

The Sundress

It just doesn't feel like Spring and Summer without the perfect sundress. Find one that flatters your frame or shows off your best assets, like this Rolla's Eve dress ($99), and wear it with flats or heels all season.

The Cocktail Dress

The Cocktail Dress

For those special occasions that don't call for a totally formal dress, you need a great cocktail dress, like this one from Zimmermann ($630) that can go from dinner and drinks to a party, if need be. Choose one with details that will work all year to get the most for your money.

The LBD

The LBD

Every woman's closet should come equipped with this staple ($88). It's an iteration you can dress up or down and wear to both celebratory and somber occasions — just choose the silhouette you like best.