How to Style a Slip Dress—Plus 7 Sustainable Options to Try

The slip dress is the ultimate example of dressed-down

dress-up. A staple of 1990s dressing—and, with that resurgence, now entirely current one, too—the feminine, wisp-like, spaghetti-strapped (usually, that is) slip originally escaped its fate as an undergarment alone

in the 1930s. Associations with night dressing and underthings lend to the slip's romance, a softness that is even more memorable when the item is selected with sustainability in mind.

Silk slips

are a staple on the racks of vintage stores around the world, pastels, ivories, and noirs waiting to be worn with boots, sweaters, tights, blazers, and more. In addition, eco-minded interpretations of the wardrobe essential can be readily found—though at a considerably steeper price.

Looking for the perfect way to personalize your slip dressing? Read on for seven ways to style a slip dress—and shop some sustainable options, too.

The quickest way to transform your slip into a daily uniform? Add a crewneck sweatshirt and a part of chunky sneakers for all the appeal of athleisure, plus some dreamy appeal.

This '90s-inspired look is primed for a day at the office. Layer your printed slip over a skin-skimming turtleneck—and don't forget to accessorize with boots and the appropriate attitude.

An all-black ensemble makes for instant impact. Style your black slip with noir everything—tights, sweater, bag, and boots—for a quick and easy cool-girl aesthetic.

Whether topped with a printed sweatshirt or a graphic tee, your slip becomes all the more memorable when afforded some bold, playful whimsy.

Earth Day, but make it elegant. Mix and match textures and lengths to create a dramatic silhouette worthy of our planet's natural hues—and your next evening out.

Go full retro and top a white baby tee with a basic black slip. Sneakers, a slicked-back updo, and a red lip keep things current, but this approach can be easily retooled to match your unique needs.

Your desk-to-dinner outfit, sorted. Couple your ankle-length slip with boots or mules, along with a softly structured blazer for a balanced vibe.