How to Wear a Short Dress

Create Balance

First and foremost, know your body shape. If you are tall and thin, then short dresses are a great look on you. However, in order to create balance, pair your short dress with flats or a small heel. Stiletto heels with a short dress when you are tall can be a bit overwhelming; however, if that is the look you are trying to achieve, your legs will look like they go on for miles. Nude-colored heels also help to achieve this effect because they give the illusion that your legs are longer than they appear. 

Shorter women on the other hand, should pair a short hemline with dark tights, "jeggings," or leggings to create an overall balance to the outfit. In addition, it is wise to be aware of whether you are short waisted, long waisted, short legged, etc. This will help you to choose an appropriate dress cut, which adds to the overall balance of the outfit as well. Another important "rule" to bear in mind when wearing a short dress is this: if you are going to wear short dress, do not wear one that is also tight. Again, balance is key. Choose either tight or short, but never both. This is a rule of thumb for outfits in general. For example, if you have a top that shows cleavage, do not choose a short hemline; the end product will look cheap and will guarantee you negative attention.

Keep It Simple

Another thing to remember when wearing a short dress is to keep it simple. Do not overwhelm the rest of your outfit with busy jewelry or too many accessories. This defeats the purpose of your focus, which is your legs of course. If you are wearing a short dress in summer or winter, a layered look is always a great choice. In the summer, pairing a cute floral dress with a motorcycle jacket is a stylish outfit choice.  In winter, pairing a sweater dress with boots and a scarf is very sensible because of the colder temperatures.

Be Age-Appropriate

Another not so obvious point: know your age. This sounds very basic but take note that there comes a time in every woman’s life when wearing too short of a hemline looks tasteless. Around the time a woman starts approaching her late 30s and early 40s, short dresses and micro-minis are no longer an acceptable outfit choice. Not only that, as the natural aging process sets in, the skin of the legs does not look as vibrant and elastic as it did when you were 20.

Remember To Groom

Keep legs looking well-groomed and properly maintained. This may seem obvious, but please remember to shave or wax your legs as well as to moisturize them.  Also, if the material of your dress is see-through, be sure to wear a slip; this way the world will not be able to see London or France. With that being said, wear full back, seamless underwear as well. There is a time and place for thong underwear and while wearing a short dress is not one of them. If you need to wear thongs, then also wear a pair of tights or nylons so you are not so exposed. You should always remain classy, even when your hemline has risen.

Mind Your Manners

And remember your manners when wearing a short dress. Always cross your legs while sitting and do not bend over. In the event you have to pick something up off of the floor, gracefully bend down with your knees and do it like a lady. Since static cling can also be an issue when wearing a short dress, it is wise to keep a dryer sheet in your purse. This way, in the event static cling sneaks up on you, you are prepared. This will prevent you from fidgeting with your dress. Fidgeting isn't a good look on anyone!

All in all, always take weather, your body shape, and your comfort into consideration when wearing a short dress. Remember to remain graceful and of course, keep it classy, keep it simple, and enjoy this small perk of being a woman!