A spaghetti strap dress is a women’s sleeveless dress named after the long Italian pasta due to its thin, delicate straps. Colloquially, it’s also known as a “spag strap dress” or a “cami dress.” In the 90s, women’s spaghetti strap dresses were popularized by celebrities such as Jennifer Aniston, Sarah Michelle Gellar and Sarah Jessica Parker, as well as their respective TV show characters from Friends, Sex and the City and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Recently, 90s fashion trends have been making a big comeback. In particular, the spaghetti strap dress is a hot style piece again in the form of a satin slip dress. If you want to recreate vintage outfits, read about Friends-inspired looks here!
Among countless styles of women’s dresses, the spaghetti strap dress is well-loved because it’s so versatile. This one-piece can be worn casually or formally and for a wide range of occasions. A spaghetti strap summer dress is suitable for baring some skin at the beach, while a flowy spaghetti strap dress can be used to create a boho style. Despite the feminine look, spaghetti straps don’t have to be uncomfortable. These dresses can be designed with pockets and adjustable straps to ensure convenience and a good fit, so you can have fuss-free fun while out and about!
Spaghetti strap dresses come in all shapes and forms. Depending on the length, silhouette, neckline, material and pattern, a spaghetti strap dress can give off completely different vibes.
Spaghetti strap dresses come in three lengths. Mini spaghetti strap dresses are the shortest option and usually end around the mid-thigh area to just above the knee. Midi dresses, also known as knee-length dresses, tend to end around the knee to the mid-calf. Spaghetti strap maxi dresses, also known as full-length dresses, are the longest version. Shorter maxi dresses end around the ankle, while longer options are floor-length.
Some of the most popular silhouettes include the spaghetti strap skater dress, spaghetti strap wrap dress and sexy spaghetti strap bodycon mini dress. A skater dress is a short dress with a fitted top and a flared A-line skirt. Its cute, girly appeal makes it an easy choice for dates with girlfriends. Similar to the skater dress, the wrap dress is fitted with front closure formed by wrapping one side across the other. With its waist tie and V-neck design, the wrap dress is extremely flattering. In addition to tie front detail, many wrap dresses have ruffled hemlines or necklines. A spaghetti strap ruffle dress, spaghetti strap tiered dress and spaghetti strap ruched dress all exude playfulness while adding volume. In contrast, the mini bodycon dress, also known as a sheath dress, is extremely fitted to emphasize one’s curves.
In terms of necklines, a sexy V-neck makes a spaghetti strap dress more risqué, while a sweetheart neckline version is romantic and elegant. The spaghetti strap cowl neck dress gives off a mature and sultry appeal and usually comes in a satin or silky material; this design is often worn as a party dress.
Spaghetti dresses also come in a range of fabrics. Spaghetti strap satin dresses, spaghetti strap silk dresses and spaghetti strap velvet dresses are luxurious and better suited as evening dresses. For more casual dresses, look to denim dresses and linen dresses, which are suitable for everyday wear. Apart from weddings, lace dresses and eyelet dresses make for great beach dresses and summer dresses. Alternatively, you can tone down the luxe of the garment by pairing it with a denim jacket for a girl-next-door look. Lace trim is a subtle way to add a sweet touch to a spaghetti strap dress.
For a sleeveless printed dress, a spaghetti strap floral print dress is a tried-and-true option. Flower print spaghetti strap mini dresses give off a sunny, girlish vibe, while floral maxi dresses radiate sophisticated flair. Tie dye print made a comeback in 2020, and it continues to be a hit today. Tie dye print maxi dresses are suitable for summer, especially for resort holidays. Polka dot spaghetti strap dresses have a retro air, especially A-line dresses with a sweetheart neckline. A spaghetti strap striped dress is a rather casual dress in a low-key print. For a print better suited to the colder months, plaid spaghetti strap dresses tend to come in thicker materials such as wool.
Spaghetti strap dresses are suitable for a variety of occasions. In particular, they’re a common pick for formal occasions. Many brides opt for white spaghetti strap wedding gowns to flaunt their shoulder line and décolletage. Spaghetti strap lace wedding dresses create an ethereal image, while a figure-hugging mermaid spaghetti strap dress is stylish and trendy. Bridesmaid dresses also often come in a spaghetti strap design, in soft pastel colors such as pink, light blue, yellow and purple.
A little black dress is a no-brainer for a cocktail dress, but spaghetti strap midi or maxi dresses in black are also effortlessly chic. To make a bold statement, show up to the event in a show-stopping red spaghetti strap dress, paired with a red lip for maximum impact. If you’re hitting up a club party for a night out, a black mini slip dress is a good option. For a seamless day-to-night transition, repurpose your office wear by layering a white shirt over your spaghetti strap dress.
If you want to wear a spaghetti strap dress to work, consider darker colors, such as black or navy blue, and in conservative silhouettes and structured fabrics. Wear a blazer or button-up shirt over the dress to keep the outfit workplace-appropriate.
For mothers-to-be, spaghetti strap maternity dresses are a breezy option. Try out loose-fitting spaghetti strap babydoll dresses or spaghetti strap shift dresses that don’t cinch in at the waist, allowing you to move around with ease.
Due to the thin straps of spaghetti strap dresses, women may worry about what bra to wear with them. Although you can still wear your regular bra with these dresses, if you want to avoid visible bra straps, consider wearing a strapless bra with your sleeveless dresses. To skip over the bra issue completely, some spaghetti strap dresses also come with built-in bras. If you want to wear your normal bra under a spaghetti strap dress, consider layering clothes under or over your dress.
Although spaghetti strap dresses are plenty stylish as they are, you can create clothing combos with them, especially in the cooler months. If you’re thinking about what matches well with your favorite spaghetti strap dress, there are plenty of options. Women’s summer fashion can become boring, but you can easily mix and match to create more complex outfits. To make a spaghetti strap dress casual, combine it with a basic white short-sleeve T-shirt underneath. To make a spaghetti strap dress party-ready, style it with a long-sleeve mesh top for more drama. During fall and winter, wear your spaghetti strap dress with a turtleneck or long-sleeve knit shirt underneath to keep warm and cozy. You can also match your dress with a cardigan, which can be stored in your bag for emergency use in chilly classrooms, restaurants, etc. Another outfit idea is to layer a white button-up shirt with your spaghetti strap dress for a boxier silhouette that is androgynous and relaxed.
