10 Basic Dresses You Need to Own, Plus How to Style Them For Any Occasion

A statement slit calls for statement shoes. When you have a sweater dress that shows off your legs, it's only right to style it with your favourite pair of knee high boots — perhaps in a unique reptile skin texture or a bold colour.

Wrap dresses are universally flattering for a variety of body types and heights. They're also insanely versatile. Take a few notes from this look and try pairing yours with some skinny jeans and heels.

Don't let a dress's straps or style fool you; all of them can be worn year-round with the right accessories. For example, that spaghetti strap sheath dress you love? A blazer and boots can take it from Summer to Winter, Fall, or Spring.

Just like the name implies, a t-shirt dress is everything you love about a t-shirt, but with the added length of a dress. To keep things cool and casual (while keeping you prepared for lower temps), tie a sweater around your waist.

A black v-neck sweater dress is an easy closet staple, and intentional accessorising can bring it from basic to elevated. This example showcases it with a leather jacket, crossbody bag, and trendy snake-print knee-high boots.

Thanks to their subtle shine and silky texture, slip dresses might be the most elevated basic in your closet. With that in mind, you don't need a ton of accessories to finish off your look. A statement bag and simple jewellery should do the trick.

Want to upgrade your evening LBD? Be on the lookout for square-neck styles. The fresh neckline looks instantly more stylish — even if you keep accessories to a minimum.

It's always a good idea to keep a sheath dress in your closet. Even though it's extremely simple, it can be dressed up easily. Similar to this look, all you really need to add is an oversized sweater and contrasting accessories.

It doesn't get more simple than a black tank dress, but referencing this look as an example, use that simplicity to your advantage. Grab a blazer to add structure to your look, and then go big with your accessories.

Sweater dresses come in all shapes and sizes, and a striped maxi version will add a little variety to you wardrobe. For an elevated look, try adding an oversized blazer.