Collection: Short dresses

The leg has three naturally thin points: the ankle, the top of the knee (a few centimeters above), and the upper thigh. A hem at these "thin" points optically lengthens the leg because it ends at a narrow point: the leg seems to continue. A hem at the knee cuts at the widest point of the knee and can truncate the perceived leg. Mid-thigh (50-55 cm from the waist) is universally the most flattering point for a short dress: the hem falls at the thinnest point of the thigh, leaving the slimmest part of the leg visible. With nude pumps or in the shade of the dress, the elongation effect is maximal.

The short sheath is fitted from shoulder to hem: no volume, the dress hugs the body. The absence of volume creates a continuous vertical line that elongates. It requires suitable lingerie (no visible seams, smooth underwear). The short sheath in crepe or structured jersey is the most worn version for the office and cocktails. The sheath in satin or velvet is upscale for evenings. The sleeveless version allows free arm mobility: the cut of the armholes (high vs. scooped) changes the appearance of the shoulder.

The trapeze dress gradually widens from the shoulders to the hem without cinching the waist: the A-line creates a dress volume independent of the body. It does not show the waist and floats away from the body: comfortable, free, particularly suited to body types that prefer not to emphasize the waist or hips. The baby-doll dress has a fitted bodice (often with smocking or gathers under the bust) and a loose flared skirt: it marks just under the bust and leaves the rest free. These two cuts are the most comfortable in a short dress because they do not constrain movement.

The skater dress has a fitted bodice and a flared skirt from the natural waist: it creates a defined waist and a circular volume below the waist. It is the most universal cut: the cinched waist creates an hourglass proportion regardless of body type, and the floating skirt frees movement. The classic length is mid-thigh. It spins well (hence the name "skater"): to anticipate if climbing stairs or if it's windy. The version in crepe or woven cotton is the most versatile. In satin or taffeta, it is upscale for parties.

A short dress without sleeves exposes both arms and legs: two areas of simultaneous exposure. If you prefer less exposure, choose long sleeves (which cover the arms) on a short dress. Long sleeves on a very short dress create a contrast between the covered top and the exposed bottom: intentional fashion look. Neckline: a deep V on a short dress adds a third area of exposure: three simultaneously exposed areas (neckline + arms + legs) can seem overloaded. Choose one to two areas at most depending on the context.

Office: short sheath dress in crepe or jersey with sleeves (or with a jacket), knee-length or below the knee for conservative contexts. Cocktail and evening: short dress in satin, velvet, or sequins, mid-thigh length. Weekend and everyday: short dress in cotton, linen, or jersey, free cut (trapeze, skater). Wedding guest: short dress possible for a daytime summer wedding: avoid very short lengths (upper thigh) for a ceremony context. See also the cocktail dresses and the summer dresses.