7 Versatile Dresses to Take You Effortlessly from Day to Night

1. The Plain Black Dress

You don’t get much more versatile than the plain black dress. Wear your black day to night dresses with denim jackets and patent shoes during the day and dress them up at night with a statement necklace and bright lipstick. This Topshop dress is a great starting point, offering a much more affordable option than what you’d be paying for similar dresses by designers like Theory. It's a staple for any capsule wardrobe.

2. The Print Dress

A bold black and white print is a versatile option for both day and night. This dress features an on-trend Deco-inspired print and comes in a simple shift design. Wear it during the day with a slouchy white blazer and gold jewelry. Then, at night, ditch the blazer and let the dress shine. Check out similar styles at Miss Selfridge for affordable and chic options.

3. The Little White Dress

Another option for taking your outfit from day to night is with a structured little white dress. During the day it can look quite neat and polished, but add a bit of bold color with your accessories at night and you’ve got a whole new look. A white dress is perfect for showing off summer trends. Look for quality fabrics at retailers like Zara or Mango.

4. The Lace Dress

Lace dresses often have a romantic feel to them. For the day, pair a lace dress with a military jacket or a leather biker jacket to toughen up the look. At night, let the lace do all the talking and keep your accessories minimal. This feminine style is always in fashion and can be found at Anthropologie.

5. The Midi Dress

The midi dress is a sophisticated choice for transitioning from the office to dinner. Its longer length makes it appropriate for professional settings when paired with a blazer, while the silhouette remains elegant for evening events. Try adding a waist-cinching belt to change the vibe. You can find beautiful midi options at Nordstrom.

6. The Maxi Dress

Don't discount the maxi dress for day-to-night transitions. A jersey maxi dress is comfortable for running errands, but when paired with sparkly sandals and a clutch, it becomes an effortless evening ensemble. It's the ultimate in boho-chic fashion. Visit Free People for more inspiration.

7. The Shirt Dress

The shirt dress is perhaps the most practical of all day-to-night dresses. Wear it buttoned up with flats for a smart daytime look, and then unbutton the neckline and add some statement earrings for a night out. It's a truly timeless piece. Here are a few ways to style it:

Finding the right day-to-night dress is all about versatility and comfort. Which of these styles is your favorite?