Lipsy London Dresses: The Complete 2026 Guide to Styles, Sizing and Occasion Wear

Introduction

Lipsy London has been dressing women for nights out, special occasions, and milestone moments since 1988. The brand built its reputation on statement party dresses, bodycon silhouettes, and embellishment that catches the light, and it has remained one of the most recognisable names in British occasion wear for over three decades.

Today, Lipsy London operates under the ownership of Next plc, which acquired the brand in 2008. The brand is sold through Lipsy.co.uk, Next stores and the Next website, and selected retailers including ASOS. Its size range has expanded to include mainline, Petite, and Plus collections, making it more accessible than ever.

For 2026, Lipsy’s collections bring bold femininity and refined sophistication to women’s fashion, with airy dresses, lightweight knitwear, occasionwear, and holiday-ready staples designed to transition seamlessly from day to evening. A debut collection with Gemma Owen launched in September 2026, adding a fresh celebrity collaboration to the brand’s long history of high-profile partnerships.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Lipsy London dresses. From the brand’s history and key dress categories to fabrics, sizing guidance, customer reviews, styling tips, and where to shop, it is a practical resource for anyone considering a Lipsy dress for their next occasion.

The Lipsy London Story: From 1988 to Next Plc

Lipsy was founded in the UK in 1988 and built its name on going-out dresses, slip styles, sequinned minis, and anything designed to make the wearer feel like the best-dressed person in the room. The brand’s website launched in 2006, and in 2008 Lipsy was purchased by the fashion chain Next plc for £17.3 million.

In 2011, Lipsy partnered with the Alhokair Group to open stores in Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia. The brand was also sold internationally through Bloomingdale’s, Robinsons in Singapore, and Myer in Australia. In January 2018, Lipsy stopped selling through its own website and focused on sales through external platforms including Next and ASOS, alongside in-store sales.

Several celebrities have served as the face of the label over the years, including Michelle Keegan, Pixie Lott, Ariana Grande, Kate Upton, and Amy Jackson. Lipsy also worked with Kim, Khloé, and Kourtney Kardashian on the Kardashian Kollections. In 2019, Lipsy acquired Fabled by Marie Claire, a beauty brand, and in 2021 the brand launched Love & Roses, a more feminine womenswear line.

The brand’s SS26 collection reflects its evolved identity, offering a wider range than the party dresses it was once known for. Airy dresses, lightweight knitwear, occasionwear, and holiday-ready staples now sit alongside the sequin showstoppers that built the brand’s reputation.

Key Lipsy London Dress Categories

Lipsy’s dress offering spans a broad spectrum of occasions and silhouettes. Understanding the main categories helps narrow down what to look for.

Sequin Dresses

Sequins are the heart of the Lipsy London identity. The 2026 collection includes several standout pieces. The Lipsy Silver Sequin Square Neck Maxi Dress features all-over sequin fabric, a square neck, side split, and cap sleeves. The Lipsy Gold Premium Flower Trim Sequin Square Neck Maxi Dress adds metal floral trims with embellishment to the all-over sequin base. The Lipsy Bronze Sequin Halter Ruched Maxi Dress features a ruched side split and halter neck.

One of the most striking trends in the 2026 sequin collection is the incorporation of gradient patterns, with colours blending seamlessly from one hue to another to create an ombré effect. Off-shoulder designs have also made a significant comeback, with delicate straps and subtle sleeves adding coverage while maintaining the alluring appeal.

Bodycon Dresses

Bodycon silhouettes continue to dominate the Lipsy range, but with fresh twists that feel modern and exciting. Plunging necklines paired with high-cut leg slits create dramatic contrasts that are both sophisticated and daring. Midi-length sequin dresses have gained particular popularity, offering a sweet spot between elegant coverage and playful flirtation.

The Lipsy Green Knitted Bodycon Summer Midi Dress is an example of the brand’s bodycon offering, featuring variated knit panels, a hem ruffle, and a bodycon fit in a 44% polyester, 28% nylon, 28% viscose blend.

Maxi and Midaxi Dresses

The brand’s maxi and midaxi dresses tend to be more forgiving in fit than the bodycon styles. Floatier cuts run fairly true to size, and the added length means less tension through the body. Petite versions are available and genuinely worth using for those under 5’4″, as the proportions are better considered than simply cropping a standard length.

The Lipsy London Pink Floral Strapless Bella Maxi Dress features a pale pink, ruched mesh fabric with a floral pattern, a structured bust, and a flowy empire maxi skirt. It is made from 95% polyester and 5% spandex.

Occasion and Wedding Guest Dresses

Lipsy’s occasionwear is designed for weddings, race days, parties, and formal events. The Cassandri dress is an off-shoulder design with refined ruches along the neckline and sleeves, a fitted silhouette, and a subtle front split in a soft sage green. It is described as ideal for weddings, parties, and special occasions.

The Lipsy Premium collection, available through Next, includes elevated occasion pieces such as the Cobalt Blue Curve Premium Textured Belted Prom Maxi Dress.

Mini Dresses

Lipsy’s mini dresses are a staple for nights out. The Lipsy Black Lace V-Neck Ruffle Mini Shift Dress features long sleeves, a mini length, dobby fabrication, a self-tie belt, ruffle details, and a V-shape neckline.

Knitted Dresses

Knitted dresses are a growing part of the Lipsy range, offering comfort with a bodycon silhouette. The Lipsy Green Knitted Bodycon Summer Midi Dress has received strong customer feedback for its fit, colour, and quality.

Shift and Skater Dresses

The Lipsy Shift Dress With Fluted Sleeve is a smooth woven fabric design with a round neck, flared layered sleeves, and a regular fit that is true to size. The Lipsy Floral Skater Dress features a floral print, lace inserts, long sleeves, and a regular fit.

Lipsy London Fabrics and Materials

The fabric composition of a Lipsy dress varies by style and collection. Understanding these materials helps you choose the right piece for your needs.

Polyester and Elastane Blends

Most Lipsy dresses use polyester as the main fibre, often blended with elastane for stretch. The Lipsy Ruffle Ruched Midi Dress is made from 94% polyester and 6% elastane, giving a sleek, sculpted drape. The Lipsy Floral Skater Dress is 90% polyester and 10% elastane.

Polyester-elastane blends offer durability, shape retention, and comfortable stretch. They are easy to care for and hold their colour well over time.

Polyester and Viscose Blends

The Lipsy Embellished Fit & Flare Dress is made from a 68% polyester, 32% viscose blend, which drapes with easy polish and a comfortable weight. Viscose adds softness and a more fluid drape than polyester alone.

Metallic Fibres and Lurex

For evening and party styles, Lipsy incorporates metallic fibres into the fabric to create shine. The Lipsy Metallic Long Sleeve Midi Dress uses a shell of 95% polyester and 5% metallic fibres, with metallic dots highlighting asymmetric ruffles.

Knitted Fabrics

The Lipsy Green Knitted Bodycon Summer Midi Dress uses a 44% polyester, 28% nylon, 28% viscose blend. The nylon adds strength and shape retention, while the viscose provides softness and drape.

Cotton and Linen Blends

Some Lipsy styles use natural fibres. The Lipsy Wrap Linen Look Midi Dress is made from 85% cotton and 15% linen, offering breathability and a relaxed, natural aesthetic.

Scuba and Structured Fabrics

The Lipsy Maxi Dress With Lace Trim And High Low Skirt uses a thick, structured scuba-style fabric with a super-smooth finish. The body is 91% polyester and 9% elastane, with 100% polyester fabric, lace, and lace trim.

Lipsy London Sizing Guide

Sizing is one of the most important considerations when buying a Lipsy dress, particularly when shopping online. The brand’s fit varies by style, and understanding this before you buy saves time and returns.

Size Range

Lipsy’s sizing runs from a UK 6 to UK 18 in the mainline range, with selected styles available in a Plus range up to UK 28, and a Petite range for shorter frames.

The General Rule

Lipsy sizes true to standard UK sizing in most cases. However, because so much of the range leans into fitted, bodycon-style occasion wear, sizing up one is strongly advised if you are between sizes or buying anything with a close, structured cut.

Sizing by Garment Type

Bodycon and mini dresses: This is Lipsy’s bread and butter, and where the sizing catches people out most often. The stretch is flattering but the cut is designed close to the body. If you are fuller in the hips or thighs, size up. A UK 12 in a ruched bodycon style may require a UK 14 for comfort.

Maxi and midaxi dresses: These tend to be more forgiving. Floatier cuts run fairly true to size, and the added length means less tension through the body.

Occasion blazers and jackets: True to size and actually a bit more generous in the shoulders than you might expect. Size as normal.

Tops and knitwear: Fairly true to size. If you prefer a relaxed or oversized fit, go one up.

Petite and Plus Ranges

Lipsy’s Plus range is proportioned properly rather than simply scaled up from standard sizing. The Petite range adjusts hem and bodice lengths accordingly, and is genuinely worth using for frames under 5’4″.

Size Chart

Lipsy UK Size	US Size	EU Size	Bust (inches)	Waist (inches)	Hips (inches)
6	2	34	31–32	23.5–24.5	33.5–34.5
8	4	36	33–34	25.5–26.5	35.5–36.5
10	6	38	35–36	27.5–28.5	37.5–38.5
12	8	40	37–38	29.5–30.5	39.5–40.5
14	10	42	39–40	31.5–32.5	41.5–42.5
16	12	44	41–42	33.5–34.5	43.5–44.5
18	14	46	43–44	35.5–36.5	45.5–46.5

Source: Tellar sizing guide.

Sizing varies by brand, country, and manufacturer. Always check the specific brand’s size chart rather than assuming your usual size will fit.

Lipsy London Dress Trends for 2026

The Lipsy London collections for 2026 reflect several broader fashion trends, interpreted for the high street occasion wear market.

Bold Femininity

The SS26 collection is described as bringing bold femininity and refined sophistication to women’s fashion. Airy dresses, lightweight knitwear, occasionwear, and holiday-ready staples are designed to transition seamlessly from sun-drenched days to balmy evenings.

Gradient Sequin Patterns

One of the most striking trends in the 2026 sequin collection is gradient patterns, with colours seamlessly blending from one hue to another to create an ombré effect that is mesmerising under lights. Dresses that transition from deep midnight blue to silver, or from rich burgundy to rose gold, are true statement pieces.

Off-Shoulder Designs

Off-shoulder designs have made a significant comeback, with Lipsy putting its own spin on the classic style. These dresses often feature delicate straps or subtle sleeves that add coverage while maintaining an alluring appeal.

Mixed Textures

The latest Lipsy sequin dresses combine traditional sequins with beadwork, creating layers of dimension and interest. Others incorporate sheer panels strategically placed to add mystery and sophistication while maintaining the overall glamorous appeal.

Midi Lengths

Midi-length sequin dresses have gained particular popularity, offering a sweet spot between elegant coverage and playful flirtation. This length works for a broader range of occasions than either mini or maxi.

Celebrity Collaborations

Lipsy has a long history of celebrity partnerships, and 2026 continues this tradition. The Gemma Owen x Lipsy London collection launched in September 2026, featuring country-inspired pieces including a £40 pleated checked skort, a £72 cinched-waist blazer, a £69 green cord funnel-neck bomber, and a range of cosy jumpers and dresses.

What Customers Say About Lipsy London Dresses

Customer reviews provide real-world insights into fit, quality, and value.

Positive Feedback

The Lipsy Green Knitted Bodycon Summer Midi Dress has received strong reviews on Feefo, with comments including “Gorgeous fitted dress. Lovely colour and very flattering on” and “Absolutely beautiful dress. Stunning to wear, beautiful material”. Another reviewer described it as “Stunning dress, lovely colour and great fit”.

A Lipsy Premium textured maxi dress received a review stating: “I love this dress. It’s incredibly flattering and very comfortable. It also looks more expensive than it is. I’m 5ft5 and the petite one worked well for me in terms of length.”

A Lipsy Premium textured diamante skater dress was described as “Stunning! Gorgeous material, great fit and just so lovely on. I felt like Carrie Bradshaw!” and another reviewer noted: “Really lovely dress, the material looks expensive and it even has hidden pockets! I received lots of compliments wearing this.”

One reviewer of a Lipsy maxi dress said: “Beautiful dress, good quality and very comfy. I would recommend all Lipsy dresses to anyone, but the last maxi dress is lovely and perfect for any occasion and great for evening dress on a cruise.”

Constructive Feedback

Some reviewers have noted fit issues. One customer said of the Green Knitted Bodycon dress: “Lovely dress not flattering on me though so had to return”. Another noted: “Issue was size was not…” suggesting sizing inconsistency.

As with any retailer, individual experiences vary by style. Reading reviews for the specific dress you are considering is always recommended.

Where to Shop Lipsy London Dresses

Lipsy.co.uk

The official Lipsy London website carries the full range of dresses, including the mainline, Petite, and Plus collections. The site offers delivery and returns options for UK shoppers.

Lipsy is owned by Next plc and is sold through Next stores and the Next website. The range available through Next includes the Premium collection and selected occasionwear. As of 2021, the brand was sold in 40 Next stores.

ASOS

Lipsy dresses are available through ASOS, with some lines exclusive to the platform. ASOS carries a range of Lipsy party dresses, skater dresses, shift dresses, and occasion styles.

International Retailers

Lipsy is also sold through international retailers including Nextdirect.com for various European markets, and through selected department stores and franchise operations globally.

How to Style Lipsy London Dresses

For a Night Out

Lipsy’s sequin and bodycon dresses are designed for nights out and celebrations. Pair a sequin midi with metallic heels and a small clutch. Keep jewellery minimal to let the dress be the focal point. A sequin dress needs no competition.

For a Wedding

For a wedding guest look, choose a maxi or midaxi style in a floral print or elegant colour. The Lipsy London Pink Floral Strapless Bella Maxi Dress is a good example, with its structured bust and flowy empire skirt. Pair with strappy heels and delicate jewellery.

For the Office

Some Lipsy pieces work for smart-casual office dressing. A shift dress with fluted sleeves or a knitted midi dress can be styled with a blazer and loafers for a polished look. The Lipsy Embellished Fit & Flare Dress can be layered with a blazer for day-to-night transitions.

For Holiday and Evening

Lipsy’s SS26 collection includes holiday-ready staples designed to transition from day to evening. A lightweight knitted dress with sandals works for daytime; add heels and jewellery for the evening.

Accessories

Minimal accessories work best with Lipsy’s embellished dresses. A metallic heel, a simple clutch, and one piece of statement jewellery are often enough. For simpler styles, you can be more adventurous with accessories.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Assuming Your Usual Size Will Fit Across All Styles
Lipsy sizing varies significantly by garment type. Bodycon and mini dresses run small and should be sized up. Maxi and midaxi styles are more forgiving. Always check the specific product’s fit guidance.

Mistake 2: Not Sizing Up in Bodycon Styles
The stretch is flattering but the cut is designed close to the body. If you are fuller in the hips or thighs, sizing up is recommended for comfort.

Mistake 3: Overlooking the Petite and Plus Ranges
The Petite range is genuinely well-proportioned for frames under 5’4″. The Plus range is proportioned properly rather than simply scaled up. Both are worth exploring if they suit your size.

Mistake 4: Choosing Style Over Comfort
If you cannot sit, walk, or dance in a dress, you will not enjoy your evening. Prioritise comfort alongside style, particularly for bodycon styles where sizing up can make a significant difference.

Mistake 5: Not Reading Reviews for Fit
Reviews reveal fit issues that product descriptions do not. Reading reviews from shoppers with a similar body shape and height helps set expectations.

Actionable Recommendations

Size up in bodycon styles. If you are between sizes or fuller in the hips, size up one in Lipsy bodycon and mini dresses. A UK 12 in a ruched style may need a UK 14.
Use the Petite range if you are under 5’4″. The proportions are genuinely better considered than standard-length styles.
Check the fabric composition. Polyester-elastane blends offer stretch and shape retention. Viscose blends offer softer drape. Knitted fabrics offer comfort and a bodycon fit.
For sequins, keep accessories minimal. Let the dress be the focal point. Metallic heels and a simple clutch are often enough.
Read reviews for fit guidance. Customer feedback on Feefo and Next provides real-world insights into how specific dresses fit.
Consider the occasion. A maxi or midaxi works for weddings and formal events. A mini or bodycon style suits nights out. A shift or skater dress works for smart-casual occasions.
Check the returns policy. When ordering online, check the returns policy before buying, particularly for occasionwear.
Explore the Premium collection. The Lipsy Premium range offers elevated fabrics and finishes for more formal occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What sizes does Lipsy London offer?
Lipsy’s sizing runs from a UK 6 to UK 18 in the mainline range, with selected styles available in a Plus range up to UK 28, and a Petite range for shorter frames.

How does Lipsy sizing compare to other UK brands?
Lipsy sizes true to standard UK sizing in most cases. However, because so much of the range leans into fitted, bodycon-style occasion wear, sizing up one is strongly advised if you are between sizes or buying anything with a close, structured cut.

Should I size up in Lipsy bodycon dresses?
Yes. If you are fuller in the hips or thighs, sizing up is recommended. A UK 12 in a ruched bodycon style may require a UK 14 for comfort.

Does Lipsy have a Petite and Plus range?
Yes. The Petite range adjusts hem and bodice lengths for shorter frames. The Plus range is proportioned properly rather than simply scaled up from standard sizing.

What fabrics are used in Lipsy London dresses?
Most Lipsy dresses use polyester as the main fibre, often blended with elastane for stretch. Some styles use polyester-viscose blends, knitted fabrics, metallic fibres, or cotton-linen blends.

What do customers say about Lipsy London dresses?
Reviews are generally positive, with shoppers praising the fit, quality, and value of specific styles. The Green Knitted Bodycon Midi Dress has received strong reviews for its fit and colour. Some reviewers have noted sizing inconsistencies, so reading reviews for the specific dress is recommended.

Where can I buy Lipsy London dresses?
Lipsy dresses are available at Lipsy.co.uk, in Next stores and on the Next website, through ASOS, and through international retailers including Nextdirect.com.

What are the key Lipsy London dress trends for 2026?
Key trends include bold femininity, gradient sequin patterns, off-shoulder designs, mixed textures, midi-length sequin dresses, and celebrity collaborations including the Gemma Owen x Lipsy London collection.

How should I care for a Lipsy sequin dress?
Care instructions vary by fabric. The Lipsy Embellished Fit & Flare Dress recommends machine washing cold with like colours, line drying or laying flat to dry to protect embellishments, and avoiding direct ironing.

What is the Lipsy Premium collection?
The Lipsy Premium collection is an elevated line available through Next, offering occasionwear with more refined fabrics and finishes. Examples include the Cobalt Blue Curve Premium Textured Belted Prom Maxi Dress.

Conclusion

Lipsy London has evolved from a go-to destination for party dresses into a comprehensive occasion wear brand, offering everything from sequin showstoppers to knitted midis, floral maxis, and structured shifts. Under the ownership of Next plc, the brand has expanded its size range, improved its fit consistency, and continued to deliver the glamour and confidence that has defined it since 1988.

The key to shopping successfully at Lipsy is understanding the sizing nuances. Bodycon and mini styles run small and should be sized up. Maxi and midaxi dresses are more forgiving. The Petite and Plus ranges offer genuinely well-proportioned alternatives for shoppers who often struggle with standard fits.

Whether you are dressing for a wedding, a night out, a party, or a special occasion, Lipsy London offers a dress for every moment. Check the size chart, read the reviews, and choose a style that makes you feel as good as you look.