One-shoulder dresses with a single sleeve

Keeping the bare side where it belongs

Most of these fit close. Before you order, measure your bust and your hips and check both against the chart. That top has to hold on by itself all night, through hugs, toasts and a few songs on the dance floor. Every style is cut in XS to XL. Our M lands near a US 6–8.

Under a one shoulder dress, wear a strapless bra or a bra with see-through straps, plus seamless briefs.

When it arrives, stand in front of the mirror and raise your arm high, like you’re waving at someone across the room. The bare side shouldn’t slide. Then sit down once.

From a birthday at a bar to an awards night

The short velvet ones belong to parties that start late. Our black mini soaks up light, which gives the color real depth, and it wants thin black tights, stilettos and a little bag on a chain. Wear one bold earring on the open side. For a New Year’s party under string lights, the emerald mini turns a rich green and looks best with gold. Navy velvet is different. It’s a silver color.

Burgundy gets gold hoops and patent pumps, and it’ll carry you from December parties right through to Valentine’s Day.

Long velvet is for the evenings with a dress code. The black one shoulder dress in maxi length suits an anniversary or an awards night, and several of the floor-length gowns, in red, burgundy, powder pink and champagne, have a slit that opens with each step. That’s the reason for thin heels. Pearl earrings look lovely with the powder pink.

White is its own story. There’s a white maxi with no lace at all, good for a registry office or a wedding shoot, and a white midi that works for an engagement party.

Leave the necklace in the box with every one of them. The bare shoulder already fills that space.

Velvet isn’t everything here, by the way. A black polka dot mini comes out for summer, with flounces along the neckline and at the hem, and its skirt flares from the waist so it doesn’t squeeze your hips.

Frequently asked questions

Can I wear velvet in one shoulder to a black tie wedding?

Go floor-length and you’re right on the dress code. Our evening gown page has the other long styles.

Is there a red one in both lengths?

Yes, red comes short and long. For other red necklines, see the red velvet collection.

How do I wash velvet?

Inside out in cool water. Don’t wring it. Let it dry hanging, well away from any heater.

What if I want both shoulders bare?

That’s a different neckline. Browse our off-the-shoulder dresses.