Open side dress

Types of open side dresses

Open-side dresses are a daring and bold fashionable choice, characterized by their unique cutouts or openings along the sides. These dresses are typically form-fitting, highlighting the wearer's curves and adding an element of sensuality to their appearance. Often constructed from luxurious materials such as silk or satin, they exude a sense of elegance and sophistication. Ideal for high-profile events or glamorous parties, open-side dresses make a statement and turn heads wherever they are worn. Here are some of the types of open side dresses, each with its own unique characteristics:

• Side Cutout Maxi Dress: This dress combines the dramatic effect of a maxi dress with the revealing nature of side cutouts. Typically made from flowy fabrics like chiffon or jersey, it often features high cutouts that extend from the underarm to the waist or hip, exposing the side torso while maintaining a modest look overall due to the length. Perfect for formal events or evening wear, the side cutouts add a modern and edgy touch to the classic maxi dress style.
• Open Side Bodycon Dress: Bodycon dresses are fitted styles that hug every curve of the body, and when combined with open sides, they become even more provocative. These dresses usually have cutouts at the waist or hips, often adorned with mesh inserts or lace for added allure. Made from stretchy fabrics that provide a comfortable fit, they are ideal for clubbing, parties, or any occasion where one wants to make a bold statement.
• Side Cutout Sundress: Sundresses are typically casual, light dresses ideal for warm weather. However, a side cutout sundress brings a touch of sexiness to this laid-back style. The cutouts are usually placed at the waist or hips, adding a little skin exposure without compromising the dress's casual, comfortable feel. Often made from cotton or linen fabrics, these dresses are perfect for beach outings, summer parties, or daytime events.
• Open Side Halter Dress: Halter dresses are known for their neck tie straps, which leave the back and shoulders bare. When combined with open sides, they create a stunningly sexy look. These dresses often feature high cutouts that run from the underarm to the waist or hip, exposing the sides and back while highlighting the wearer's shoulders and neck. Typically made from silk or satin fabrics, they are perfect for formal occasions, evening wear, or upscale parties.
• Side Cutout Denim Dress: Denim dresses offer a casual, laid-back style, but a side cutout denim dress adds an edgy, rebellious twist. The cutouts are usually placed at the waist or hips, exposing a little skin while maintaining the casual, rugged appeal of denim. These dresses are perfect for casual outings, daytime events, or even concerts and festivals.

Design of open side dresses

Open side dresses have many designs, and each design has its uniqueness. Here are some of their designs:

• Side Cutout Maxi Dress: This design features a floor-length maxi dress with dramatic side cutouts. Typically, the cutouts are located just above the hips, leaving the midsection bare while the rest of the dress maintains a modest appearance. Side cutout maxi dresses are often worn in sophisticated events such as galas or red carpet events.
• High-Low Cutout Dress: This style has a high-low hemline with short in front and low at the back. The sides of the dress have cutouts that may be in the form of straps or panels. This dress style is fashionable and suitable for occasions such as parties and weddings.
• Asymmetrical Cutout Dress: This design features an asymmetrical cutout that is partially located near the neckline or shoulder and partially located along the side of the dress. This design is ideal for fashion-forward individuals.
• Open Side Bodycon Dress: This design involves a body-hugging dress with an open side that has minimal or no fabric between the front and back panels. It is suitable for those who want to showcase their figures and is ideal for clubbing and parties.
• Side Cutout Sundress: This design incorporates a casual sundress with side cutouts. Usually, the cutouts are small and may be located near the waist or under the arms. This dress style is perfect for the summer season and is ideal for casual occasions.
• Side Cutout Cocktail Dress: This design incorporates a side cutout and a cocktail dress. Typically, the cutouts are located near the waist or the midsection, and the dress is knee-length or slightly above the knee. This style is ideal for those who want to look and feel glamorous but within a specific budget.
• Open Side Lace Dress: This design features lace fabric with an open side. Often, the cutouts are small and may be located near the waist or under the arms. This dress style is suitable for weddings and other events that require formal wear.
• Side Cutout Prom Dress: This style includes a side cutout and a prom dress. Usually, the cutouts are located near the waist or the midsection, and the dress is floor-length or long. This design is perfect for those attending prom or other formal events.

Wearing/Matching suggestions of open side dresses

Open-side dresses are fashionable and can be tricky to style. Here are five wearing and matching suggestions to help make the most of this daring look:

• Monochromatic Magic

  Wearing an open-side dress in a single color is a guaranteed way of looking fashionable. It is because of the boldness of the side cutouts and the simplicity of the color that the dress makes a stunning statement. To further enhance the monochromatic look, the dress should be teamed up with shoes and accessories of the same color as the dress. This is suitable for occasions such as cocktail events, for instance.

• Layering Mastery

  Layering can also be used to enhance the style of an open-side dress. Wearing a jacket or a blazer on top of the dress minimizes the revealing look of the dress, making it more modest. The type of jacket or blazer one wears depends on the kind of look they want to achieve. For instance, a leather jacket gives an edgy look, while a tailored blazer gives a classy look. This style is appropriate for settings such as music festivals.

• Contrast and Complement

  Wearing an open-side dress with complementary and contrasting colors is another daring way to style it. The side cutouts are highlighted by the contrasting colors, while the complementary colors bring out the beauty of the dress. This look can be achieved by pairing the dress with a colored jacket or blazer and shoes and accessories of different colors. It is perfect for occasions such as a summer wedding, for instance.

• Accessorize Wisely

  Accessories can make or break the look of an open-side dress. The dress should be paired with minimal accessories to avoid looking overdone because the side cutouts are the focal point. Shoes and accessories that complement the dress should be used to complete the look. This is suitable for occasions such as a black-tie event, for example.

• Hair and Makeup

  Hair and makeup should be kept simple when wearing an open-side dress. This is because, as much as hair and makeup complement the dress, they should not overshadow it. Simple hairstyles such as a ponytail or bun should be worn, and makeup should be kept to a minimum. This style is appropriate for casual occasions such as brunch, for instance.

Q&A

Q1: What occasions are open-side dresses suitable for?

A1: Open-side dresses are versatile and can be suitable for various occasions, depending on the style and fabric. They are perfect for formal events like weddings, galas, and black-tie affairs when made of luxurious materials such as silk, satin, or lace. They are also great for summer parties, beach vacations, music festivals, and nights out for cocktails or dinner, offering a blend of elegance and edginess.

Q2: How does one wear an open-side dress without showing too much skin?

A2: Open-side dresses can be worn modestly by choosing styles that have strategically placed openings or closures, like high slits that go up to the waist or dresses with built-in bodysuits. Wearing nipple covers, skin-tone adhesive patches, or a stylish belt can also help secure the dress while covering sensitive areas. Layering with a lightweight shawl or jacket can also add coverage.

Q3: Can open-side dresses be altered for a better fit?

A3: Yes, open-side dresses can often be altered to achieve a better fit. Adjustments can be made to the sides, back, or neckline to ensure the dress fits snugly and securely. However, it's essential to consult with a professional tailor to assess whether the specific design of the dress can be altered without compromising its structural integrity or the appearance of the openings.

Q4: What undergarments should be worn with an open-side dress?

A4: Undergarments with minimal visibility and support are ideal for an open-side dress to maintain a smooth silhouette. Seamless panties and a strapless or bralette with removable cups work well to avoid visible lines and provide necessary support. Bodysuits and shapewear can also be worn to enhance the body's shape and provide additional coverage and security.