Satin Dresses: How to Wear and Care for Them

Nothing catches the light like satin. It is also a fabric that shows everything - which is exactly why the cut and the details matter. Here is how to choose and wear a satin dress so it looks its best.

Choose the right cut

• Bias cut skims the body and moves like liquid - beautiful on a slip or cowl-neck gown.
• Structured bodice with a satin skirt gives shape on top and movement below, and is the most forgiving option.
• Pleats and ruching at the waist hide creases and flatter the midsection.

Avoid visible lines

Wear seamless underwear in a skin tone. Avoid lace and thick seams. If the dress is unlined, a smoothing slip in a matching tone makes a visible difference.

Removing creases

Hang the dress in a steamy bathroom or use a garment steamer from the inside, holding it a few centimetres away. Do not iron satin directly: it can leave a shine mark.

Which colour to buy?

Deep shades - navy, burgundy, chocolate, black - are the most flattering in satin and work for evening events. Light satin (butter yellow, baby blue, white) is stunning in daylight but shows every line, so choose a lined or structured style.

Care

Gentle dry clean only. Store on a padded hanger, away from rough surfaces and jewellery that could catch the fabric.

Shop all satin dresses or find your size in the size guide.