5 Dresses Every Gal Should Own

By Jessica Conway, GalTime.com

A colorful dress is a party pleaser!
A colorful dress is a party pleaser!

Who doesn't love their go-to dress? Whether you're picturing a pleated maxi or a sexy LBD, relaxing in a casual sundress or going full glam in a ball gown, dresses can be a flirty, flattering no-brainer.

We asked Caitlin Perrone, Editor of Sauci Style, and Mary Lou Andre, Editor of dressingwell.com to help us pick the five dresses every woman should have in their closet!

#1 - The Essential: The LBD, or little black dress, is every woman's must have. Whether you are more inclined to wear an A-line cut, a basic sheath dress or a wrap dress, choose one that has night and day versatility with a classic, flattering neckline.

The wrap dress in a matte jersey flatters the waist and bust line thanks to its tie-closure and elongating v-neck.

If you want your LBD to transition to a going out dress, look for sheath classic lines and an element to keep it current and sexy (think zippers or embellishments)!

Related: The High-Low Hemline: Take Your Style to New Heights




























Ann Taylor Triacetate Seamed Sheath Dress, $168

#2 - The Bright Side: With spring in session and summer on the way, a colorful cocktail dress is perfect for any of your party needs! Solid colors, neon brights, and even pretty pastels offer a fresh, fashionable twist on any classic dress. Make sure your colorful shift is comfortable and flowy, and look for fabrics like silk and chiffon that can be dressed up for nighttime!




















Ted Baker London Pleated Chiffon Dress, $235

Ann Taylor
Ann Taylor
Ted Baker
Ted Baker

#3 - The Show Stopper: You never know when you'll receive a last minute event invitation, and you want to be ready! Keeping a black tie dress in your closet is a smart move. Shopping for one last minute is super stressful, and you'll end up paying an arm and a leg! Instead, check the sale rack and secure a flattering, formal option in your spare time that you can always go to for ultra-dressy events.

Related: Beach Cover Ups for Day or Night!

Tadashi
Tadashi























T by Tadashi Sweetheart Mesh Gown, $158

#4 - The Fun Piece: A sparkly dress is the perfect way to add versatile glamour to your wardrobe. Look for a dress you can throw a blazer over for a fun night out, or put tights under when the weather is cold.

If sparkles are a little too intimidating, another way to add a fun dress to your closet is to go for a bold print. Small, subtle prints can be worn to the office, flatter every body type, and are a great break from the everyday pantsuit. Larger prints are better for nighttime!

Forever 21
Forever 21




















Forever 21 Spaghetti Strap Sequin Dress, $22.80

#5 - The Great Length: Maxi dresses are a go-to piece for any occasion. Whether you're running errands during the day or heading to a barbeque at night, the maxi dress looks chic anywhere.

Related: How to Wear the Hottest Trends at Work

To dress it up, throw on metallic wedges and bold necklaces. To dress it down, wear flat sandals and a jean jacket. You can choose a solid maxi or go for floral or neon prints. If you want something really fashion forward, the high-low hemline is definitely in this season! These floor-length dresses are also a great transitional piece - a great maxi can take you into the fall.

Free People
Free People
























Free People Emma Too Fer Dress, $88

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