Black slip dresses on narrow straps, short and midi

Velvet on bare shoulders after dark

It’s ten at night, the bar’s warm and the music’s loud. That’s where the velvet mini belongs. Thin straps leave your shoulders bare, the hem stops well above the knee, and velvet gives the black real depth under low lights.

Winter isn’t a problem. Wear an oversized blazer or a short fur jacket on the way there and take it off once the dancing starts. Stilettos. A thin chain at the neck and nothing else.

With sheer black tights and the same heels, this black slip dress also goes to a New Year’s party or a birthday dinner at a nice restaurant. Keep the bag small. A clutch that holds your phone and keys is all you’ll need when your hands are full of glasses and the dance floor’s calling.

This particular velvet doesn’t crease or build up static, which makes it easy to pack for a weekend away. Fold it into the suitcase, shake it out at the hotel, put it on.

If you’d like more of the same fabric with other necklines and lengths, we keep a black velvet page too. For more short party options, there’s a page of black cocktail dresses.

A summer midi with tie straps and little flowers

The other black slip dress is a summer sundress, so it’s out of the catalog in the cold months and comes back in March. It has a tiny floral print, a straight neckline and a skirt that opens out from the waist and reaches past the knee, which helps on a crowded bus or a long walk. The straps tie at the shoulder. You set the length of the bodice yourself.

White sneakers and a tote for the day. At night it’s heeled sandals and a baguette bag. When the evening cools off, an open white shirt or a denim jacket goes on top, and since the print is small, it won’t fight with denim, white or beige.

It’s also the dress you pull on over a wet swimsuit when lunch at the beach café can’t wait. Add hoop earrings and a thin bracelet for dinner.

Frequently asked questions

What bra goes under thin straps?

A seamless one with clear straps. Under the velvet mini, nobody sees it.

How do I pick the size for the velvet mini?

By your bust. When it’s right there, the straps won’t cut into your shoulders and the top lies flat.

How should the floral sundress fit?

Measure your bust and waist and check both against the chart, XS to XL. The tie straps take care of the rest. Other cuts on narrow straps are on our full slip dress page.

Can I wash the velvet at home?

Inside out, in water no warmer than 30 °C. Then hang it up to dry.