Gowns and dresses may seem hard to distinguish, but there are actually some very major differences between these two outfits. Our article gives you the details on gowns and dresses in order to help you understand how to tell the difference between these two styles of clothing. Read on to learn more about gowns vs dresses.
What Is a Gown?
A gown is a formal item of clothing, and this item of clothing is typically worn at a wedding or a ball. Gowns tend to be elegant and eye-catching, and they have many layers to give the wearer the complete princess effect. Gowns are made in many different styles, and they have a variety of embellishments and sleeve lengths, though most gowns are at least floor length. For an example of what formal gowns can look like, check out this extensive collection.
What Is a Dress?
A dress is a one-piece garment of clothing, and this piece of clothing may have a skirt of any length. Dresses can be long or short-sleeved, and they can be both casual or more formal depending on the style and material used.
Major Differences Between Gowns and Dresses
There are plenty of differences that can help you determine what is a gown and what is a dress. Below, we give you an overview of the most important differences to keep in mind when you are looking through your clothing options.
With our tips, you should easily be able to tell the difference between a gown and a dress. If you need help figuring out the best gown or dress for each occasion, you can speak to a staff member in a dress store or a friend or family member to help you out.
In general, major differences between gowns and dresses include:
The Material
Gowns are typically made from more expensive and heavier materials, such as silk, taffeta, and stain. These materials make gowns appear more elegant and formal, especially compared to dresses that are typically made out of cotton, synthetic fabrics, or a mixture of fabrics.
ADVERTISEMENT
The Layers
Gowns tend to have more layers, such as in the case of ball gowns. Gowns may also have skirts that are separately attached and sown onto bodices, whereas dresses are simpler in design, contain fewer layers, and tend to be more casual in nature.
The Length
Gowns are generally intended to be formal or semi-formal, and they will typically be floor length because of this. Dresses are more casual, and they come in a variety of lengths from mid-thigh all the way down to maxi length.
The Styles
Gowns tend to have more elegant styles, and they may be embellished with materials like jewels, lace, or sequins. Dresses can have embellishments too, but the materials tend to be less luxurious, and the styles of dresses are more intended for comfortable everyday wear.
When to Wear: Gown vs Dress
Gowns and dresses are worn on very different occasions, with gowns being intended for formal or semi-formal settings. Dresses, on the other hand, can be worn during casual or even semi-formal occasions, depending on the setting and dress code.
Below, we give you some examples of popular activities and events with our advice on which type of outfit to wear.
- A ball – Generally, you will wear a gown to a ball
- A black tie or white tie event – Gowns are usually required for these events
- A cocktail party – A nice dress or cocktail dress is best for this event
- New Year’s Eve party – A cocktail dress fits this event unless the event is formal; formal events usually require gowns
- A birthday party – Unless otherwise stated, a dress is perfectly fine for a more casual event
If you ever have any questions about dress codes for an event you have been invited to, reach out to the organizer of the event or the person who invited you to make sure you pick the best outfit possible.
ADVERTISEMENT
Attend Your Next Event in Style
Whether you are planning on wearing your favorite summer dress to a casual event outdoors or you are donning your newest formal gown for a black-tie event, it’s important that you understand the difference between gowns and dresses. Understanding this difference can help you select the right item of clothing in all situations, and you are sure to attend your next event in impeccable style once you know how to tell gowns and dresses apart.
