When The Row released its early Spring 2025 collection, the talk of the town in the Bazaar office was a particular look: a dress worn over pants. This styling choice may not have been anticipated, but it seems to be making a comeback. It reminds us of the early Y2K era when celebrities like Lindsay Lohan and Mary-Kate Olsen rocked this trend on the red carpet. Other designers, such as Phoebe Philo at Celine in 2016, have also explored this unique styling direction.
Dresses over pants were a top trend in the Resort 2025 collections, offering a bold and daring aesthetic that many find appealing. As a tall woman, I often find that my minidresses work better as tops, so I was excited to experiment with this look myself. The versatility of this style is endless, whether you prefer a monochromatic look with tonal colors or a bold statement with mix-and-match prints.
Here are seven ways to try out the dress-over-pants trend:
1. **The Casual Look**
Pair a silky minidress or floral babydoll with classic straight-leg jeans. If the print feels too delicate, balance it out with a bold red sweater or a utility jacket. Complete the outfit with embellished sandals or Mary Jane flats.
2. **The Evening Approach**
For a twist on your party attire, combine a sleeveless bodycon dress with fitted, flared trousers. Consider matching silky separates for an effortlessly chic look. Experiment with sheer fabrics to add a touch of transparency to your outfit.
3. **For the Office**
Balancing a party look on top and business attire on the bottom is key for wearing a dress over pants to the office. Opt for monochromatic styling with layered pieces and varying volumes. A shirtdress layered over white jeans can also add interest to your work wardrobe.
4. **Pared-Back Chic**
Play with proportions by pairing a swingy minidress with wide-leg trousers for an oversized look. Experiment with monochrome outfits or mix fitted and flowy pieces for added dimension. Zebra stripes can also add a fun touch to your ensemble.
5. **The Sporty Version**
High Sport’s Kick pants offer versatility with their cropped kick-flare shape. Try pairing them with a shift dress or a T-shirt apron dress for a casual yet stylish look. Finish off the outfit with an oversized bomber jacket and ballet flats for a sporty vibe.
6. **If You Love a Tunic**
Tunics are a chic option for the season, especially when paired with white or raw denim. Accessorize with sculptural pieces to make a statement, such as a woven tote bag and pierced mules. Tunics can serve as a minidress or be layered over pants for a sophisticated look.
7. **Skirts Over Pants**
Using a skirt as a layering piece can add a fun twist to your outfit. Bubble-hem skirts worn over jeans can create a peplum effect, breaking up the silhouette. Experiment with mixing floral patterns and finish off the look with a stylish barn jacket.
Jaclyn Alexandra Cohen, Harper’s Bazaar’s Senior Fashion & Accessories Editor, has shared these tips for styling dresses over pants. Whether you’re looking to make a bold statement or simply try something new, this trend offers endless possibilities for creativity and self-expression. So why not give it a try and see how you can rock this look with confidence and style?
