How to buy the perfect black shift dress

The perfect black shift dress is the Holy Grail of fashion for most women. A black shift dress can be worn for work with a few simple accessories, dressed-down with a leather jacket, or dressed-up with a great belt and extravagant jewellery. This article takes a look at how to buy the perfect black shift dress to suit your style, your budget and your day-to-day needs.

Things to think about

Do not overspend A black shift dress is one of the most important basics in a woman's wardrobe. Fortunately, you do not need to spend a lot of money to find the perfect shift dress. In fact, work wear and plain, must-have items is where low cost stores like Primark really score in the fashion stakes. Primark has a great range of shift dresses, pencil skirts and work shirts under £20.00. You can also pick up some excellent black shift dresses in the sales, at stores such as Gap and Next as well as mid-range high street shops such as Jigsaw and Karen Millen.
Choose your fabric wisely In order to get the perfect shift dress in black, think carefully about the type of fabric. A silk dress is perfect if you have to dress-up a lot for evening functions, or transform your outfit for an after-work party. If you are looking for a versatile dress that you can wear at the weekend with a denim jacket, then a jersey fabric might be more appropriate. Whatever your needs, a cotton shift dress always looks chic and presentable.

Consider how to wear your black shift dress

Dress it up H&M (Hm.com) has some pretty knitted shift dresses which will be perfect come the autumn as the weather starts to get a bit cooler. Knitted dresses are relaxed and chic and could be dressed up with a sequin or brightly coloured satin belt. With prices starting at just £14.99, H&M's fabulous dresses will not break the bank. Oasis also stocks some fabulous black dresses in long and mid-length styles. Black dresses and clothing can be a little dull without accessories. Oasis has come up with a fabulous solution in the form of its black colour block cap sleeve dress. This plain dress is brightened up by red and white colour block detailing around the neck and hem. Priced at £60.00, this flattering dress comes in sizes 6 to 16 and is available from Oasis-stores.com or from Oasis shops around the country. *Prices correct as of 21.07.2011