Shift Dresses

Display easy classiness with one of our women’s shift dresses, designed for effortless dressing on weekdays and weekends. Elegant and easy to wear, shift dresses are cut to skim your body for a clean silhouette that works equally well for the office as it does for evening plans. Choose pieces from top brands like Hobbs and Phase Eight, in sleek black, vibrant tones or playful prints.

Will you be dressing for good weather? Look out for ladies’ shift dresses in breathable materials like cotton – ideal for warmer days. A short-sleeved cotton shift dress is just the ticket for keeping things cool and crisp, especially when teamed with sandals from our women’s holiday shop. Choose sleeveless styles with bold floral patterns or go for refined button-up options in classic neutrals for a minimalist finish. You’ll also find a variety of tailored fits in our plus-size shift dress edit, with details like pintucks, splits and pleats for a flattering finish.

As well as stylish women’s shift dresses, our full dress edit includes skater styles, kaftans and T-shirt dresses from much-loved brands like Sosandar and Monsoon. A black dress with flared sleeves or lace detailing makes a sleek statement for smart-casual events, while a belted design creates gentle shape at the waist. For warmer weather, browse linen dresses with breezy, short-sleeved cuts or colourful embroidery. Complete your look with some dressy high-heel shoes, a compact clutch bag and perhaps a piece or two from our women’s jewellery collection – whether a dainty necklace or a bold pair of hoops.

Shift Dresses FAQs

What are shift dresses?

A shift dress is a classic, straight-cut style of dress that falls neatly from your shoulders, without clinging to your body. Typically knee-length, this type of dress creates a clean and flattering silhouette that works well for work, evenings out or casual events. The simplicity of a shift dress makes it a true wardrobe staple that’s easily dressed up or down.

What should I wear with a shift dress?

Pair your shift dress with courts or ballet flats for your Monday-to-Friday polish, or add block sandals or high heels for an evening-ready finish. A cropped blazer or structured jacket defines your shape, while minimal jewellery – like hoop earrings or a fine pendant – keeps your look refined and elegant.

What is the difference between sheath and shift dresses?

A shift dress has a looser fit that skims your figure for relaxed comfort. A sheath dress, by contrast, is more tailored and form-fitting, designed to accentuate your waist and hips. Both are timeless silhouettes – but the shift leans towards effortless ease, while the sheath creates a sleeker, more sculpted outline that dials up your feminine appeal.