How to wear the mod shift dress

What to look for: From the runways of Alberta Ferretti to Prada, mod sixties-inspired shift dresses are all the rage. Whether in solids or prints, these A-line shifts have been modernized with drop waists, shortened cuts and interesting patterns. This boxy shape not only conceals problem areas but it’s a sexy androgynous alternative to the pantsuit. Try some of the newest shapes in solid colours.

How to wear it: Not sure you’re ready to wear this throwback again? “Choose a dress with colours that you really like and watch the scale of design and location of the colours. For example, if you are conscious of your hips, look for one with a dark colour or pattern in that area,” says Lynda E. Jean, a Certified Image Consultant in Toronto.

Accessorize it: To keep it from looking too groovy don’t go for go-go boots or knee-highs. “Pick up a colour from the dress and use it in your shoes, bag or bangles,” says Jean. But keep the silhouette fairly clean — don’t cinch with a belt unless it comes with one and top it off with a classic trench in a similar cut.

Day to night: Dress it up with hose and pumps for nighttime or dress it down with opaque tights and boots for a weekend jaunt, advises Jean. While these dresses have high necklines, test drive one of the latest chunky chokers for night. 

A little hit of style: “Try different styles with different shaped patterns, and, as always, do not purchase it if you do not feel comfortable wearing it." Sometimes we like a certain trend but it does not like us back, and the style does not work with our body.

Dresses we love (pictured in player above):
V- Back Dress, $100, Zara.
Time Out Shift Dress, $198, French Connection Canada.
Split Neck Tunic Dress, $50, Le Chateau.
Diane von Furstenberg Arabela Turtleneck Shift Dress, $325 USD, Neimanmarcus.com.