Do you hate it when you find a dress you absolutely LOVE, but it’s sleeveless, and then you stress about what to wear over it? Gurl, you’re not alone. There are a bunch of reasons women struggle with sleeveless dresses - modesty, arm self-consciousness (I’m not saying you should be, I’m just acknowledging that people are), and temperature fluctuations (both internal and external). 

I can’t tell you how many messages I get from women asking for dresses with sleeves. And I do like dresses with sleeves, however, they are more limiting. Meaning they are less versatile from a styling point of view. 

A sleeveless dress can look different with different toppers and also by layering something underneath, so on a cost per wear basis, you can get more bang for your buck with a sleeveless dress.. So I want to encourage you to open your mind to possibly wearing a sleeveless dress, and looking for a topper instead.

Layering a topper over a dress can instantly elevate your outfit, making it suitable for different climates and occasions. However, the key to nailing this style is not just in picking a fashionable topper but in understanding how to match it with the specifics of your dress. 

The goal is for the piece topping the dress, i.e. the topper, to enhance the overall look. We want it to look intentional, not like an afterthought.

So, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered…literally!!

Here are important considerations to keep in mind when pairing a topper with your dress, as well as some great toppers!

Also, I did a fun video for my Instagram subscribers where I tried on different toppers with 4 different dresses. I’ll take you through the thought process with each, what works, what doesn’t work, and why. You can watch the video by visiting my Instagram profile and clicking “subscribe” ($5/mo). I know that new technology can be tricky for the majority of us, so I put this guide to Instagram subscriptions together to help you!

What To Consider When Pairing a Topper with a Dress

1. The Length of the Dress

Pairing toppers with dresses effectively involves balancing proportions and experimenting with contrasts to enhance your outfit’s style and functionality:

Short Dresses: These dresses provide a great canvas for various topper styles.

• Longer Toppers: A duster coat or a long cardigan adds an elegant contrast, creating a dynamic, layered look that elongates the silhouette and adds a touch of sophistication. Ideally a long topper should hit at the same length as a short dress.

• Cropped Jackets: For a harmonious look that accentuates the waist and complements the dress’s shorter length, cropped jackets or boleros are perfect. They maintain the proportions and add a structured or playful element depending on the style. Cropped toppers are the most universal toppers to go over a dress (long or short) as they hit at the waist and maintain the silhouette.

• Fitted Blazers: A tailored blazer can bring a smart and chic vibe, making the ensemble suitable for more formal or professional settings. Fitted blazers cinch at the waist, theoretically doing the same job as a cropped topper.

Midi and Maxi Dresses:

• Cropped Jackets: These are great for defining the waist and adding structure to the flow of longer dresses. It’s a stylish way to break up the length and add character. Again, a cropped topper works well with short and long dresses as it highlights the waist.

• Light Sweaters: For a casual and cozy feel, light sweaters can be tossed over the shoulders or tied around the waist for a laid-back yet chic appearance.

2. The Sleeve Style

Sleeves can add bulk or texture to a dress, which should be considered when adding another layer:

• Sleeveless or Thin Straps: These dresses offer the most versatility, allowing for heavier or layered toppers without looking too bulky.

• Long Sleeves: Opt for a sleeveless vest or a light shawl to avoid too much fabric under the arms, which can be uncomfortable and unflattering.

3. Account for Any Additional Dress Details

The detailing of your dress, such as ruffles, sequins, or patterns, should influence your choice of topper:

• Embellished or Ruffled Dresses: Choose simple, unadorned toppers to keep the focus on the dress. A sleek, simple shawl or a minimalist cropped jacket would work well.

• Printed or Patterned Dresses: Stick to solid-colored toppers to avoid clashing. Ensure the color complements at least one hue in the dress pattern.

4. Fabric and Texture Considerations

Lastly, consider the fabric of both the dress and the topper to ensure they harmonize:

• Light and Airy Fabrics: Pair chiffon, silk, or light cotton dresses with equally light toppers such as fine knit cardigans or linen blazers.

• Thick or Textured Fabrics: For velvet, brocade, or heavy cotton dresses, opt for more structured toppers like wool coats or leather jackets that can hold their own without being overwhelmed by the dress fabric.

5. The Neckline of the Dress

The neckline of your dress plays a crucial role in determining the type of topper that will look best:

• High Necklines: For turtlenecks or high-collar dresses, choose open-front cardigans or jackets that don’t crowd the neck area.

• V-Neck and Sweetheart Necklines: These are versatile and can be paired with various toppers. A blazer or bolero can complement these necklines well by framing the décolletage attractively.

• Strapless and Off-the-Shoulder: Shawls, wraps, or cropped jackets work wonderfully as they cover the shoulders for warmth while still showing off the dress’s design.

See the Dress + Topper Pairing in Action

👎 Examples that Don’t work

👍 Examples that Do work

SHOP THE LOOK:

Topper Styles

Shawls and Wraps

Choosing the Right Shawl or Wrap:

• Fabric Considerations: For formal dresses, opt for silk or chiffon wraps that add a light, dressy layer without bulk. For a more casual look, a cotton or modal blend provides comfort and a slight stretch that complements more casual dresses.

• Styling Tips: For a sophisticated look, fold the shawl in half and drape it over your shoulders, letting the ends hang down in front; or, for a more secure style, wrap it around your shoulders and tie it loosely in the front.

SHOP SHAWLS/WRAPS:

Cropped Jackets

Selecting the Best Cropped Jacket:

• Fit and Proportion: Ensure the jacket hits just at the waistline of the dress to avoid cutting your body in an unflattering line. This is particularly crucial for dresses with a defined waist.

• Material Choices: Leather or denim impart a bold, urban feel, suitable for transitional weather and casual settings, while a tailored fabric jacket suits formal and work environments.

SHOP CROPPED JACKETS:

Sweaters

How to Style Sweaters Over Dresses:

• Belt It: Adding a belt over a lightweight sweater worn on top of a dress can define your waist, providing shape and style.

• Neckline Matching: V-neck sweaters generally look best with dresses that have a similar neckline, ensuring that the dress does not clash or bulge awkwardly under the sweater.

SHOP SWEATERS:

Layering the right topper over a dress is an art that combines understanding the specific elements of your dress with selecting the appropriate outerwear to complement it. By considering the neckline, length, sleeve style, and the overall detailing of your dress, you can choose toppers that not only enhance your outfit but also ensure you stay comfortable and stylish, no matter the occasion.

Whether you’re reaching for a chic shawl, a sharp cropped jacket, or a cozy sweater, remember that each layer you add should harmonize with your look while serving its functional purpose. So next time you dress up, don't just throw on the first thing you find; consider these tips to create a balanced and beautiful outfit!