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When you hear "chiffon dress," you get a definite feeling of something that's light and airy. If you immediately think of chiffon cake, you're on the right track --- though inedible, the texture is light and fluffy. A chiffon dress is ultra-feminine and certainly evokes a sweet aesthetic. While chiffon dresses are traditionally worn as dressy-occasion garb, their transition into daywear feels surprisingly fresh.
What It Is
So you know that a chiffon dress is a frock made out of chiffon fabric, but ... it's the chiffon part that has you confused. Chiffon is a lightweight, airy fabric that's often sheer. Depending on the fibers used to create the chiffon, it may have a shiny finish or a matte finish --- think silk or rayon, though any fiber that lends itself to a gossamer appearance is usable. You'll most often see chiffon dresses in flowing silhouettes and detailed with ruffles or layers because the fabric tends to float and is ideal for these feminine looks.
Why It's Lovely
Due to its super-feminine appeal, chiffon dresses run the gamut when it comes to different occasions. On one hand, one popular type of chiffon dress is the wedding gown --- when you think of THE dress of your life, bridal often springs to mind. For a bride who loves a soft, feminine appearance, chiffon is a winner. On the other hand, when you're attending a dressed-up party on the beach or accepting an award, chiffon is right there with you, offering light-as-air movement for an elegant appearance.
How to Wear
When you're not decked out in a silk chiffon wedding gown, there are other ways to add this girlie fabric into your day-to-day ensembles. For a more formal take, keep your look simple with a solid-hued, knee-length cocktail dress and nude pumps --- simple and beautiful. For your daily street style, if you're feeling a bit bohemian, opt for a chiffon maxi-dress in a subdued, romantic floral and strappy flat sandals. If urban-chic is more your aesthetic, think bold, printed mini-dress over black opaque tights and black booties. Throw on a black leather bomber jacket if it's chilly out. Chiffon ... so versatile.
Where To Buy
When you're looking around for a chiffon dress, consider your goal and then shop away. For a wedding gown, look online for silhouette ideas and then begin making some in-person visits to local bridal boutiques. For formal to daytime dresses, departments stores are a smart first stop as they cater to a wide array of occasions. You can also visit specialty stores that focus on evening attire when looking for formal gowns. For your street-chic looks, check out boutiques with ultra-feminine aesthetics ... you're sure to run into some lovely chiffon selections.
