One Sheath Dress, Five Ways

A classic sheath dress is a wardrobe staple. This lightly form-fitting dress is flattering on almost every body type and can be a blank canvas to create various looks.

The sheath is great on its own when you’re in a hurry and just need something to zip on and be done. It can also be layered over and under and accessorized in multiple ways. It’s perfect for those who only keep a capsule wardrobe in their closet. Here’s how to wear one sheath dress, five ways.

Sheath dress with a long sleeve shirt underneath


The sheath dress is trooper for wearing in different seasons throughout the year. In the summer, it’s light and breezy on its own. As a chill comes in the air, you can layer underneath it. A button-down shirt is an easy way to create different looks that cover your arms with a variety of colors and patterns. This colorful floral shirt creates a springtime look that also adds a vintage edge because it’s from the 1970s. When the temperatures get cooler, you can also layer in a light turtleneck sweater underneath.

Sheath dress with a short sleeve shirt underneath


Adding a blouse to your sheath dress is another way to create different looks. Anything with sleeves and a collar will work so you can see it from under the dress. This puff-sleeve blouse creates a smart, sweet look. Try blouses with interesting and stylish standing collars such as straight collars, ruffle collars or Peter Pan collars. Make sure the collar sits high on the neck so it can come out of the dress. Low collars such as sailor collars or lapel/revere/Cuban collars won’t work for this look because you can’t pull them through the dress neckline.

Sheath dress as a top


You can turn a sheath dress into a completely different look by wearing a full skirt over it. That way, the top half becomes a blouse on its own. You could even layer a shirt underneath to create yet another look. Look for full skirts that are circle cut and at least knee-length, so it completely hides the bottom of the dress beneath. This look is also a warm option for colder temperatures because it gives you a sneaky extra layer underneath your full skirt.

Sheath dress with a sweater over


Take the chill off your exposed shoulders by adding a cardigan sweater. This look allows you to add more color options and patterns to your overall outfit, like this leopard-print cardigan. For wintertime looks, try a classic crewneck sweater or fun chunky sweater over your sheath so that the bottom half of the dress looks like a separate pencil skirt.

Sheath dress with accessories


You can transform the look of your sheath dress with a wealth of accessories. Scarves, statement necklaces, long pendant necklaces, belts and brooches can all create unique looks with various colors and textures. It also gives you a chance to show off your personality, such as this vintage scarf I have from my ever-growing collection!



Now that you know how to wear one sheath dress, five ways, what looks can you come up with? Be sure to check out more of my vintage and thrifted looks on my blog StilettoCity.com and Instagram pages.

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