Elegant Classic Dress Styles Every Girl Should Have In Her Wardrobe

Join Celidior to discover outstanding classic dress styles, how to choose and coordinate outfits to look sophisticated, as well as little secrets to keep your dress looking like new.

You love elegance, luxury and nostalgic, romantic beauty but are confused about where to start with classic style? How to wear classic dresses without looking "old" or "cheesy"? This article is the guide for you! Coolmate will explore the world of classic women's fashion with you, from definitions, classic styles to tips on choosing and how to coordinate classic, luxurious dresses.

What is a luxury classic dress? Distinguishing it from Vintage & Retro

Vintage chic dresses are dresses that are inspired by previous decades, especially the glorious period of fashion from the 40s to the 60s. Their core lies in timeless elegance, expressed through sophisticated tailoring, carefully selected fabrics and the ability to flatter the wearer's figure gracefully.

The highlight of the classic dress lies in its timeless elegance.

Type of skirt	Main features	Time of birth	Style
Classic Dress	Elegant, luxurious, classic design has been tested and recognized by time.	Not dependent on specific time	Timeless beauty, never out of fashion
Vintage Dress	Is a real costume made 20–30 years ago or more, bearing the mark of the times.	At least from the 1990s onwards	Nostalgic, associated with specific historical context
Retro Dress	Modern costumes are designed to imitate old styles, colors, and patterns.	New production, inspired by the past	“Modern retro” style, following the trend

Distinguishing between classic dresses and Vintage & Retro dresses

You might also like: Summer Dresses just launched by Celidior

Top most classic and luxurious classic dress styles

Classic swing dress (A-line/swing dress)

This is probably the most popular and beloved classic dress style, reminiscent of 50s silver screen stars like Audrey Hepburn or Grace Kelly. The classic flared dress is characterized by a neat waist and a naturally flared skirt in an A-line or a round, fluttering swing dress, usually knee-length or midi.

The biggest advantage of this dress style is its ability to effectively conceal flaws in the waist and hips, while creating the illusion of a slim "ant" waist. It brings an extremely feminine, airy and romantic beauty. The classic flared dress is extremely easy to wear, suitable for most body types and many situations, from going out, dating to light parties.

Classic flared dress is extremely easy to wear, suitable for most body shapes and many situations

Pencil dress

In contrast to the fluttering look of the flared skirt, the pencil dress is a statement of elegance, power and mature charm. The characteristic style hugs the body from the waist down to the hips and tapers towards the knees, fully honoring the sexy curves of women in an extremely delicate way. The popular length is usually knee-length or slightly above the knee.

The pencil skirt is a symbol of a luxurious, professional office style but not at all rigid. However, this style of skirt requires the wearer to have a relatively balanced figure, especially the waist and hips, to be able to show off its beauty. The material is usually a slightly elastic, form-fitting fabric such as tweed, cotton mixed with spandex, crepe...

Pencil skirt is a symbol of luxurious and professional office style.

Shirt dress

Bringing a breath of "menswear" (masculine style) into women's wardrobes, the classic shirt dress (Shirt dress) is an interesting combination of a masculine shirt and a feminine dress. The identifying features are the collar (shirt collar), the row of buttons running down the front (can be buttoned or just decorative), and often comes with a belt of the same material or leather to accentuate the waist.

The advantage of the classic shirt dress is elegance, modesty but still very comfortable and flexible. The materials are very diverse, from cool cotton, kate to soft silk, chiffon. The colors and patterns are also rich, from basic solid colors (white, beige, navy blue) to stripes, small plaid or floral patterns.

The advantage of classic shirt dress is elegance and modesty.

Polka dot dress

When it comes to classic dresses, we cannot ignore the classic polka dot pattern. The cheerful round dots, whether tiny or large, on a contrasting color background (white - black, red - white, navy blue - white...) have become a symbol of joy and nostalgia, romance.

Polka dot dresses easily create a youthful, sweet, lovely and extremely attractive look. They are the ideal choice for romantic dates, weekend outings, picnics or vintage concept photo shoots. To wear a polka dot dress beautifully, you should limit your accessories, choose simple items to avoid making the overall look confusing.

Lace dress

Lace fabric is always associated with feminine beauty, sophistication and luxury. A classic lace dress can use lace as an accent on the neck, sleeves, skirt, or cover the entire body of the dress, creating an irresistible attraction. Commonly used lace can be thread lace, floral lace, cotton lace with sophisticated patterns, always accompanied by a discreet lining inside to ensure elegance. Lace dresses are the top choice for special occasions such as party dresses, weddings, anniversaries... because of the graceful and noble beauty it brings.

Lace material is always associated with feminine beauty.

Classic floral maxi/midi dress

In short, these are dresses with a romantic feel, with long, flowing silhouettes (maxi dresses are heel-length, midi dresses are calf-length) and pretty floral patterns. The material is usually chiffon, silk, or light cotton, creating a feeling of lightness and comfort. This style of dress is extremely feminine, gentle, and full of retro fashion, very suitable for summer or gentle autumn days.

Classic maxi dress with romantic breath and long flowing shape

Modern cheongsam dress

Inspired by the traditional cheongsam dress of Asian women, the modernized version retains the characteristic body-hugging shape and elegant mandarin collar, but is modified to be more modern and easier to wear. The innovative details can be the sleeve style (puff sleeves, flared sleeves, sleeveless), the length of the skirt, or the use of new materials such as brocade, printed silk, lace...

The modernized cheongsam dress has a stylized classic beauty, both charming and unique.

The secret to choosing the perfect classic, elegant dress

Choosing a beautiful dress is difficult, choosing a dress that suits you is even more important. Don't worry, no matter what your body shape is or what occasion you are looking for, there is a classic, elegant dress that is made for you. The important thing is to understand the advantages and disadvantages of your body and the purpose of use. Don't be afraid to experiment!

Choose by body shape

Pear shape

If you have a pear-shaped body – with hips and thighs that are wider than your shoulders – then an A-line or flared skirt is your best bet. A slightly flared skirt will balance out your proportions, hiding your lower body while accentuating your slim waist. On the other hand, designs like a tight pencil skirt can make you feel uncomfortable.

The slightly flared skirt will help balance the body proportions for a pear-shaped body.

Apple shape

For apple-shaped bodies – characterized by broad shoulders and chest, and a vague waist – choose loose-fitting dresses, low-waist dresses, or shirt dresses with a light belt. V-neck or sweetheart necklines will create a slimmer upper body effect, while avoiding fussy details on the shoulders and chest to avoid making the body look "heavier".

V-neck or sweetheart neckline will create a slimmer upper body effect for apple-shaped body.

Rectangular shape

If you are a rectangle body type – three measurements are almost equal and have few curves – then high-waisted dresses, flared dresses or dresses with wide belts will help accentuate your waist. In addition, details such as puffy or ruffled sleeves are also “weapons” to help increase the femininity and softness of your figure.

A flared skirt or a skirt with a wide belt will help accentuate your waist.

Hourglass figure

For the hourglass figure – where the waist is small and the bust and hips are balanced – almost any classic dress style will suit. A tight pencil skirt will accentuate the curves, while a slightly flared waistline will accentuate the enviable “wasp” waist.

Hourglass figure suits almost any classic dress style

Choose according to circumstances and purposes

In addition to body shape, the occasion is also an important factor in choosing a dress. Each different occasion requires a different style of dress, and classic dresses can completely satisfy that flexibility.

Office environment

In the office environment, neatness and professionalism are the top criteria. Pencil skirts, straight A-line skirts or shirt dresses are perfect choices. Prioritize neutral colors such as black, white, beige, gray or navy blue, with simple patterns such as small stripes or faint plaid. In addition, the material should have a light form, less wrinkles such as cotton blend, khaki or tweed. Avoid choosing skirts that are too short, revealing or thin because they easily lose the necessary elegance in the office.

In the office environment, neatness and professionalism are the top criteria.

Walking around town

When going for a walk, having coffee or going on a date, you can freely express your femininity and personality through floral flared dresses, cotton shirt dresses, linen dresses or fluttering midi dresses. This is the time for you to freely play with bright colors, lovely patterns and comfortable materials.

When walking on the street, she can express her femininity through floral flared dresses.

Go to party

When appearing at formal parties or events, classic dresses will maximize the luxurious and attractive beauty. Designs such as sophisticated lace dresses, soft silk dresses, classic velvet dresses or tight or flared cocktail dresses will help you shine. Colors can be bold like burgundy, teal, mustard yellow or classic like black, white, nude. Don't forget the accent details like pearl buttons, rhinestones, lace trim or silk bows to add sophistication and class.

When appearing at parties, classic dresses will maximize their luxurious beauty.

How to coordinate with classic elegant dresses

A beautiful dress is only half the story. To truly complete the classic look and exude elegance, it is important to coordinate your accessories, hair and makeup. Here are some tips to help you shine like a true lady!

Indispensable accessories

When pairing with a classic dress, prioritize delicate, harmonious accessories - because "less is more" is the pinnacle of luxury.

• Shoes: Pointed-toe, square-toe or kitten heels always suit the classic style. Avoid bulky sneakers and platform sandals.
• Handbags: Choose elegantly shaped bags such as top handle bags, compact clutches or stiff leather shoulder bags. Skip backpacks and fabric tote bags!
• Jewelry: Pearls are a symbol of classic beauty. In addition, you can choose thin gold/silver jewelry, small earrings, leather strap watches. Avoid items that are too big or too individual.
• Other accessories: Silk scarves, lace gloves, berets or wide-brimmed hats, cat-eye glasses are the perfect accents for classic outfits.

When wearing a classic dress, prioritize delicate accessories.

Hair & Makeup

You should prioritize low buns, chignons or large retro-style curls. Bob/lob curls are also very suitable. Add some highlights with headbands, bows or pearl clips.

In addition, classic makeup focuses on the eyes and lips. Use cat-eye eyeliner, combined with red or earthy pink lipstick. Light blush, smooth foundation and natural eyebrows will help the overall look more elegant.

Choose hairstyle and makeup style to match your outfit

Tips to keep classic dresses looking like new

A classic, elegant dress is not only valuable for its appearance, but also for how you preserve it over time. For delicate materials such as silk, lace, chiffon or velvet, it is best to hand wash in cold water or dry clean. If washing by machine, choose a gentle cycle, use a laundry bag and mild detergent, and absolutely do not wring hard to keep the dress's shape.

When storing, hang the dress on a hanger with shoulder pads and store in a cool place, away from direct sunlight to avoid fading. For dresses with embellishments or easily scratched materials, wrap them in a cloth bag when hanging in the closet.

When ironing, prioritize a low-temperature steam iron, iron the wrong side or cover with a lining to avoid polishing the fabric. Especially, with sensitive materials such as velvet or lace, it is best to only steam iron without direct contact.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vintage Dresses

When learning about vintage dresses, you probably have a few questions. Let's answer them quickly!

Are classic luxury dresses suitable for young people?

Absolutely YES! Classic and elegant dresses have no age limit. Young people wearing classic dresses also create an interesting blend of nostalgic beauty and freshness. The secret is to choose the right style, brighter colors and combine with accessories with a bit of modernity to balance and avoid looking "old".

Classic elegant dresses have no age limit

What should you keep in mind when wearing classic dresses to work?

When wearing to work, elegance and modesty should be prioritized. You should choose styles such as pencil skirts, shirt dresses, A-line dresses with neutral colors and elegant patterns. Avoid dresses that are too short, have low necklines, are backless or are made of too thin, see-through material. The overall look should be neat and professional.

How to wear a classic floral dress without looking old-fashioned?

To avoid looking cheesy when wearing a floral dress, you should choose a dress with a modern cut like a V-neck instead of a closed round neck, or a model with a slight slit. When coordinating accessories, prioritize minimalism with solid-colored items like shoes and handbags to create harmony. Regarding hairstyle and makeup, keep them neat and natural, avoiding overly elaborate hairstyles with a strong old-fashioned style.

Conclusion

A luxurious classic dress is not only a women's fashion item, but also a declaration of timeless elegance, femininity and refined taste. With a variety of styles, materials and colors, I believe that every girl can find at least one "true love" classic dress for herself.

Discover more useful fashion style advice articles on CeliBlog!