Have you ever wondered what a "faux wrap dress" really is? Or the difference between a trend and a fad? Us too! Fashion is filled with terms that can be confusing, so we’ve put together a glossary to help you navigate the world of style with confidence. Whether you’re diving into high fashion, exploring everyday wardrobe staples, or keeping up with the latest trends, this guide has you covered.
This glossary will continue to grow as fashion evolves! Bookmark it and check back for updates to stay in the know.
Fabric & Textile Terms
Bamboo Jersey – A soft, breathable, and eco-friendly fabric often used in luxe basics like our Bamboo T-shirts.
Chiffon – A sheer, lightweight fabric with a flowing drape.
Linen – A breathable natural fabric, perfect for warm weather.
Ponte – A structured, thick knit fabric with stretch, great for pants and dresses.
Bengaline – A durable fabric with slight stretch, ideal for structured garments.
Silhouettes & Styles
A-line – A silhouette that flares gradually from the waist or hips.
Bodycon – A form-fitting dress or outfit that hugs the body.
Empire Waist – A high waistline that sits just under the bust, elongating the body.
Fit & Flare – A fitted bodice with a flared skirt, creating a flattering shape (think our signature Shift Dress).
Wrap Dress – A dress that wraps around the body and ties at the waist.
Faux Wrap Dress – A dress designed to mimic a wrap style without wrapping around the body.
Throw-on-and-go is a concept where one piece, like a dress or jumpsuit, is enough to make you look effortlessly put together.
Cowl Neck – A draped neckline that creates soft folds.
Flutter Sleeve – A loose, feminine sleeve with a slight flare.
Wardrobe Essentials
LBD (Little Black Dress) – A timeless black dress suitable for multiple occasions.
Palazzo Pants – Wide-leg, flowy trousers perfect for comfort and style.
Slip Dress – A lightweight, usually satin or Bamboo dress with delicate straps. Usually used as a solo dress (depending on a style) or as an undergarment under dresses, tops and skirts or as a loungewear.
Going Out Top – A stylish top designed for evening wear or special occasions and usually featuring a more glamorous or eye-catching design.
MVP - (Minimum Viable Product) - in a personal wardrobe is a core, essential pieces that form the foundation of a versatile and functional collection, allowing for a wide range of outfits with minimal effort
T-shirts – A classic wardrobe staple, available in different fits and fabrics.
Long Sleeve Dresses – Dresses with sleeves extending to the wrist or longer.
Jumpsuit – A one-piece garment that combines a top and trousers.
Singlet – A sleeveless, close-fitting top.
Jacket – An outerwear piece designed for layering and style.
Trends, Theories & Fashion Movements
Trend vs. Fad – A trend is a long-term style shift, while a fad is a short-lived craze.
Capsule Wardrobe – A curated selection of versatile clothing pieces that mix and match effortlessly.
Wrong-shoe theory - created by stylist Allison Bornstein, this theory is about picking the most unexpected shoe to finish off a look and make the outfit more interesting and unique.
Dopamine Dressing – Wearing bright, joyful colours to boost mood and confidence. By Samantha Melbourne is the ultimate dopamine-dressing brand
Power Dressing – Outfits that convey confidence and authority, often structured and tailored.
Coastal Grandmother – A chic, effortless aesthetic inspired by relaxed seaside living (think Diane Keaton in Something’s Gotta Give).
Old Money Aesthetic – Understated luxury featuring tailored classics, neutral palettes, and high-end accessories.
Barbiecore – A playful, pink-heavy aesthetic inspired by the 2023 Barbie movie.
All Other ‘Cores’ – Fashion movements like Cottagecore, Balletcore, and Dark Academia that reflect specific aesthetics and lifestyles.
Fashion Industry Terms
Ready-to-Wear (Prêt-à-Porter) – Clothing designed for mass production in standard sizes.
Haute Couture – High-end, custom-fitted fashion created by luxury designers.
Cruise Collection (Resort Wear) – A seasonal collection designed for warm-weather vacations.
Bespoke – Custom-made clothing tailored to an individual’s specifications.
Wholesale – Buying in bulk from manufacturers, often for retail.
Sample – A prototype garment used for fittings, promotions, or pre-production checks.
Lookbook – A curated collection of fashion photography showcasing a brand’s latest styles.
BTS (Behind the Scenes) – A glimpse into the creative process of fashion brands, from design to production.
Dress Codes: From Casual to Formal
Athleisure – A blend of athletic and leisurewear, designed for both exercise and everyday wear.
Casual – Relaxed, everyday wear including jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers.
Smart Casual – Polished but relaxed outfits, like a stylish dress or tailored trousers with a chic top.
Business Casual – Office-appropriate yet comfortable attire, such as structured dresses, blouses, and dress pants.
Cocktail Attire – Semi-formal evening wear, like an elegant dress or stylish separates.
Black Tie – A formal dress code requiring floor-length gowns or sophisticated evening attire.
White Tie – The most formal dress code, featuring full-length gowns and luxurious accessories.