What Is a Sun Dress?

As the sun's rays grow warmer and the days stretch longer, our wardrobes instinctively turn to one essential piece, the sundress. This breezy and versatile garment has long been a staple of summer fashion, but what exactly makes a dress a sun dress? In this blog post, we'll take a deep dive into the world of sundresses. We'll explore their rich history and provide a comprehensive overview. You'll learn the precise definition of a sundress and how it differs from regular dresses. Additionally, we'll share tips on styling sundresses, including the best undergarments and layering options. So, let's uncover the secrets of this beloved summer staple together.

Sundresses: A Brief History and Definition

A sun dress is a sleeveless, collarless women's dress worn over a blouse or worn on its own. The word “sarafan” is of Persian origin and means “dressed from head to toe.” “Sarafan” is a Russian term and was translated as “jumper” which works for Americans, and as “sundress”.

The history of sundress begins in ancient Russia, when it was exclusively men's clothing.

Since the 14th century, the sun dress has become a women's outfit, and in the 18th–19th centuries it became the basis of traditional Russian costume. In the 20th century, it entered modern fashion.

Features of a sun dress:

1.No sleeves or collar.

2.Loose or fitted silhouette.

3.Length varies from mini to maxi.

4.May have straps or be on straps.

Modern sun dresses are made from various materials: cotton, linen, silk, denim. They are popular as summer clothing due to their convenience and versatility.

Sun dress can be easily combined with other wardrobe items, creating both casual and elegant looks. This makes it an essential item in a woman's wardrobe, especially in the warm season.

Difference and Similarities Between a Regular Dress and a Sundress

1.Difference

👗Cut of the top and sleeves.

A regular dress differs from a sundress by having a one-piece top. It can have sleeves of different lengths, a collar and various neck options. The dress is worn as an independent item of clothing.

The sundress differs from the dress by its open top without sleeves. It is characterized by the presence of straps of different widths. The sundress is often combined with blouses, shirts or turtlenecks, which makes it a more versatile wardrobe item.

👗Use of additional clothing elements.

A regular dress and a sundress differ in the use of additional clothing elements. A regular dress is usually worn as an independent wardrobe item, without requiring additional layers underneath.

The distinctive feature of the sundress is its versatility. It can be worn separately or in combination with blouses, T-shirts or turtlenecks, which allows it to be adapted to different seasons and situations.

👗Application and purpose.

A regular dress is universal and suitable for a wide range of occasions, from everyday to formal events. It can be an element of both business and evening wardrobe.

The difference of the sundress is its narrower specialization. It is more often used as everyday, home or beach wear. In some cases, the sundress can serve as a school uniform, but is rarely used in formal situations.

2.Similarities

👗Materials and fabrics. A variety of materials are used to make dresses and sundress, from light, flowing fabrics to dense, textured fabrics. The choice depends on the purpose and style of the product.

👗Seasonality. Both types of clothing adapt to different seasons thanks to the use of appropriate fabrics: light ones for summer and thicker ones for the cold season.

👗Styles and lengths. Dresses and sundresses are presented in a wide range of lengths: from mini to maxi. Styles vary from straight to flared, from fitted to loose silhouettes.

👗Styles and decoration. Both types of clothing can be made in different styles and decorated with various decorative elements: embroidery, appliques, lace, buttons and other details.

👗Color solutions. Regular dresses and sundresses can be either plain or with various prints: floral, geometric, abstract or thematic. Both types of clothing often use a combination of several colors or shades, which allows you to create interesting visual effects and accents.

What to Wear Under a Sundress

Sundresses remain a popular item in women's wardrobes. They can be worn at any time of year, but in winter it is better to choose warm models made of thick fabrics, such as wool or jersey. As a rule, winter sundresses are worn over clothes such as blouses or shirts with jabots or ruffles. However, if you want to add decorations or elements in the form of embroidery, it is better to prefer more subdued tops or turtlenecks. This will help make the image more balanced and unpretentious as a whole. To create an expressive image, you can use different styles and items of clothing, but you need to remember that the main thing is to maintain harmony and balance in the entire image.

1.With long-sleeved top

Winter sundresses are comfortable to wear with blouses, jumpers, turtlenecks and shirts. It is important to choose outerwear so that it does not create additional volume. Classic style sundresses that do not have an excess of decorative elements will look advantageous in combination with shirts and blouses with a jabot or ruffles. Avoid excessive details and bright elements, as they will only distract attention from the sundress and ruin the overall look.

2.With short-sleeved T-Shirt

A sundress + a T-shirt is a fashionable combo that has long since become a classic. Literally any sundress will do for this look, it can be on wide straps or very thin ones, with a deep neckline or an elegant square neckline. Choose bright models with flowers, polka dots or boho prints. You can wear a white T-shirt under such a sundress, or a colored one, to match the dress or a contrasting one. Midi and mini will look just as good with a maxi, and a T-shirt will look great with a midi. You can wear a T-shirt not only under a sundress, but also over it.

3.Thin turtlenecks

You can wear a light turtleneck under your clothes. Choose plain or interesting knitted ones so as not to weigh down the image.

Different Ways to Layer Your Sundress

When the evening chill replaces the daytime warmth, it's important to know how to accessorize your look. Here are some stylish options.

1.Cardigan

A cardigan is the perfect solution for a cool evening. A long knitted cardigan without buttons will add coziness and elegance to your look. It will perfectly enhance the femininity of a sundress and create an airy, but stylish look.

2.Denim Jacket

If you prefer sporty style, then this option is for you. A denim jacket will add lightness and ease to the image.

3.Blazer

The sundress and jackets are simple and soft, but formal and a little more elegant. It is very suitable for mature women, and also likes cute women. You can wear a suit to work and go shopping on a date, and it can be combined with a skirt with suspenders, which looks stylish and classy.

In summer, it can be very cold in the air-conditioned room, so it is a good idea to wear an extra outerwear. The black slip dress with a pure white suit and a black slip dress is stylish and classy, it can highlight your work ability, and you can wear it to go out on the weekend.

How to Accessorize your sundress?

A summer sundress is a great base for creating an image that can be complemented with a variety of accessories. Here are some ideas on what accessories you can choose to make your summer outfit even more expressive and interesting:

1.Bags

Beach Bag: For days at the beach, choose a large bag made of straw or fabric with bright prints. It will hold all your essentials and add a light touch to your look.

Shoulder Bag: A small leather or fabric bag with a long strap is an option for walking around town. Choose neutral colors or bold patterns for a pop of color.

Clutch: An elegant clutch is perfect for an evening out. It can be simple and minimalistic, or decorated with glitter or stones.

2.Jewelries

Large earrings: Bright hoop earrings or earrings with stones and beads will perfectly complement a summer sundress. They will attract attention and make the image more feminine.

Bracelets: Several bracelets on the wrist will add a playful touch to the look. You can combine different textures and materials - metal, leather, textile.

Necklaces: Long necklaces or multi-layered chains with pendants are suitable for decorating simple sundresses. Choose jewelry that matches the color of the sundress fabric.

3.Shoes

Sandals: In summer, the choice will be light sandals with a flat sole or a small heel. These can be both simple “slides” and more sophisticated models with straps.

Espadrilles: Fabric espadrilles with laces or platforms add a touch of romance and casualness to your look.

Sneakers: Pair a sundress with white sneakers for a more active and youthful look.

4.Hats

Hats: A wide-brimmed straw hat will not only protect you from the sun, but will also add chic to your look. Choose models decorated with ribbons or flower crowns.

Panamas: Fabric panamas in bright colors or with prints are a great option for casual and beach looks.

Baseball caps: For a sporty look, baseball caps will also help protect your face from the sun.

5.Sunglasses

Choose trendy glasses that suit your face shape. Aviators, cat-eyes, or large round glasses add mystery and style.

These accessories will help make every summer day bright and unforgettable, and your image complete and harmonious.