Basic dresses

Q: What is a basic dress?

A basic dress is your essential: clean lines, a flattering fit and zero fuss. It's the simple dress you throw on in seconds and instantly feel put-together in. Plain, but powerful, the same style works for errands, work, dinner or a night out depending on how you style it. Think of basic dresses as the foundation of a capsule wardrobe, the pieces everything else builds around.

Q: How do you dress up a basic dress?

Accessories and layers do the heavy lifting. Add a strappy heel, a gold necklace and a blazer and a plain midi reads dinner-ready; swap in statement earrings and a clutch for cocktails. Texture helps too, a smooth, sculpting fabric feels dressier than a ribbed jersey. The trick to making a basic look less basic is one strong finishing piece: a bold shoe, a sculptural earring or a great jacket.

Q: Does Showpo have plus sizes, and is delivery free in the UK?

Yes to plus sizes, and delivery is free over £135. Showpo's basic dresses are online in sizes 4 to 20, including plus sizes , so more girls can build a capsule their way, and the Size Guide helps you nail the fit. We ship across the UK with free delivery over £135 plus express options, and the Returns Policy has your back if it doesn't vibe the way you pictured. Want styling inspo? Our blog is basically your cool older sister who always knows what to wear, so start with the capsule wardrobe guide for easy formulas to build a line-up of basics in black, white, beige, cream or grey you'll actually rewear. One dress, infinite outfits, and totally not boring.