Style Glossary: Dresses

We’ve all been there: You’ve just pulled out a dress from your closet that you’ve been seen in one too many times and are ready to list it on Poshmark. You know it’s important to accurately and thoroughly describe your items on Poshmark, but you’re not quite sure how to describe the style or silhouette. Not to worry, we’ve got your back, girl! We’ve selected a few helpful terms from our new Women’s Fashion Glossary to help you get the low-down on common dress styles.

A-line

A-line: An A-line dress silhouette mimics the letter “A” and has a narrow top and a flare. You can also find the A-line shape on skirts and women’s coats.

Fit and Flare

Fit and Flare: A fit and flare dress closely hugs the body through the bodice and right past the hip, where the skirt then flares away from the body. You can also find this style on skirts.

Sheath

Sheath: A sheath dress is a short, slim-fitting dress that is cut to cinch in at the waist without a belt or waistband.

Shift Dress

Shift dress: A shift dress has a loose fit and lacks a defined waistline. It is often a short dress.

Shirt Dress

Shirt Dress: A dress with a collar and buttons in the style of a shirt, typically cut without a seam at the waist.

Skater

Skater: A skater dress resembles the dresses the figure skaters wear; a fitted bodice with a short skirt that flares out from at waist. You can also find this style on skirts.

Slip Dress

Slip Dress: Often resembling the undergarment, a slip dress fits close to the body, is usually made of smooth fabrics and has lace trim.

Trapeze

Trapeze: A trapeze dress has a round neckline and a fabric that falls in an A-line shape to a wide flare. This styles is usually short and hits about mid-thigh. You can also find this style in tops.

Want to know more? See more women’s clothing terms in our fashion glossary.