Demystifying the Iconic (and Expensive) Vetements Style

As a lover of bold, avant-garde fashion, I’ve had my eye on the influential brand Vetements for a while now. Vetements exploded onto the scene around 2016 with their deconstructed, oversized aesthetic that took the fashion world by storm.

The brand has become synonymous with creating ironic, anti-fashion statements that still manage to drive desire and demand. Under the creative direction of Demna Gvasalia, Vetements has paved the way for other streetwear-inspired luxury brands.

One of their staple pieces that encapsulates the oversized, grungy aesthetic is the iconic Vetements dress. Available in a variety of styles like slips, shifts, and babydoll silhouettes, the Vetements dress has become a celebrity and it-girl favorite.

But with their seemingly simple designs comes sky-high pricing. As we all know, the luxury price tag doesn’t always mean the quality matches.

That’s why I wanted to delve into the world of Vetements dresses and create the ultimate buying guide for these coveted statement pieces. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know before investing in a Vetements dress of your very own!

What Exactly is a Vetements Dress?

Vetements dresses encompass an array of styles, from oversized t-shirts to slinky slips and unique wrap dresses. The dresses are known for their deconstructed, anti-fashion vibe.

They take inspiration from grunge, streetwear and youth culture. Many of the dresses have an air of DIY and a reconstructed aesthetic.

You’ll see features like raw hems, asymmetric cuts, and oversizing throughout the different dress silhouettes. They take everyday pieces and elevate them with subtle luxe details like higher quality fabrics.

The dresses also feature signature Vetements prints, graphics and logos. Some even have satirical corporate logo t-shirts printed on slips and dresses.

Overall, you can expect an oversized, thrifted look from a Vetements dress. They have that cool grunge vibe perfect for off-duty model style. But somehow still look polished and luxe.

The Best Places to Buy the Iconic Vetements Dress

If you’re coveting a Vetements dress, the first step is finding where to buy one. Here are the top stores and sites to shop both new and pre-loved Vetements dresses:

Vetements Official Site – This is the best place to shop current season designs and new releases. Expect to pay full retail price. New dresses range from $800 – $3,000+.

Net-a-Porter – This luxury e-commerce site carries the full range of Vetements and new collections. Again, expect full retail pricing.

MyTheresa – Similar to Net-a-Porter, this site has an amazing selection of luxury brands. Shop the latest Vetements dresses here.

MatchesFashion – A top online destination for luxury and designer fashion. New seasons of Vetements are available here.

Ssense – The trendy site sells coveted and hard-to-find collections. Shop recent Vetements dresses direct from the brand.

Farfetch – Find pre-owned, vintage and current Vetements pieces from boutiques around the world on this site. Great for rare sold-out dresses!

TheRealReal – For authenticated pre-owned and vintage Vetements finds, this luxury consignment site is the best. Prices vary from $200 to $1000+

Vestiaire Collective – Another popular resale site with pre-loved designer finds. Lots of unique Vetements dress styles can be found here.

eBay – Search for deals on used and vintage Vetements dresses here. Just be sure to authenticate before purchasing.

The Many Iconic Styles of the Vetements Dress

From deconstructed t-shirts to sequined slips, Vetements offers their signature dress in endless cool styles. Here are a few of the most popular silhouettes that capture that grungy, anti-fashion vibe:

Oversized T-Shirt Dresses – These are often t-shirts styled as dresses featuring graphics and prints. The t-shirt dresses have an oversized, roomy fit in worn-in cottons.

Slip Dresses – Signature Vetements slips are bias-cut and body-skimming. Often crafted from satin or crepe, they have cowl necks and spaghetti straps. Oversized proportions make them modern.

Shirt Dresses – Men’s shirting is transformed into loose, flowing shirt dress silhouettes. Details like contrast stitching, raw hems and button-down fronts give them a deconstructed look.

Hoodie Dresses – Streetwear hoodie sweatshirts get an extended length to become laidback hoodie dresses. Kangaroo pockets and drawstring hoods keep the casual vibe.

Wrap Dresses – Vetements takes on the classic wrap dress with asymmetric hem lengths, tank-style tops and front wrap closures. Ruched detailing adds interest.

Babydoll Dresses – These short, swingy dresses often have empire waists and tiered detailing. Light chiffon fabrics, puff sleeves and flounce hems give them a lingerie-inspired babydoll look.

Cocktail Dresses – Contrary to their grunge aesthetic, Vetements also does sexy, glamorous cocktail dresses. You’ll find figure-hugging silhouettes, sequins, and bold prints.

No matter your personal style, there’s a Vetements dress to match your vibe. Go edgy with an oversized t-shirt dress or keep it feminine in a ruffled chiffon babydoll style.

Demystifying the Vetements Dress Fit

One of the biggest draws of Vetements dresses is the oversized, anti-fit silhouette. But that can also make finding your size a challenge.

Here’s what you need to know about the fit and sizing of a Vetements dress:

Oversized – They are meant to fit very oversized, so size down if you don’t want an extremely baggy look. Size up for that “true to brand” shapeless fit.

Non-Form Fitting – The dresses are not body-hugging or form-fitting at all. Expect a loose, flowing shape rather than a sheath silhouette.

Dropped Shoulders – Oversized, dropped shoulder seams give many dresses an even boxier fit through the upper body.

Boxy – Little waist definition and loose sleeves lend a very boxy, rectangular shape to most Vetements dress styles.

Raw Hemlines – Since many styles have raw, unfinished hems the lengths can vary. Try them on in person if possible.

Slim Fit Available – Some long sleeve dress options do come in a “slim fit” which has a less oversized shape through the hips and shoulders.

To summarize the Vetements dress fit – it’s oversized, boxy and anti-conforming to the body. Size down for a more fitted shape or lean into the slouchy proportions by sizing up.

Is the Investment Worth the Price Tag?

There’s no denying that Vetements dresses are an investment. With price tags in the $1000s, it’s reasonable to question if they’re actually worth it.

Here are the pros and cons of splurging on the iconic Vetements dress:

Pros:

• Designer quality construction and luxurious fabrics like silk satin
• Incredible attention to detail and finishing like raw-edges and deconstruction
• Cool, grungy aesthetic that’s anti-fashion yet still luxe
• So many unique dress styles you won’t find anywhere else
• Exclusive and hard-to-find pieces from one of the hottest luxury brands
• Investment that can be worn season after season and retain value

Cons:

• The high price point – $800 to $3000+ is extremely expensive for a dress
• Sizing and proportions are oversized and avant-garde – not suited for everyone
• Hand wash only fabrics require delicate cleaning
• Craftsmanship may not align with the pricing
• Some styles sell out quickly and can be hard to obtain

Overall, a Vetements dress is worth it if you’re a loyal follower of the brand and their iconic oversized aesthetic. The quality and originality do back up the pricing.

But the investment means these aren’t impulse buys – give thought to how well it fits your personal style and budget. For that price, it must be love at first sight!

Size Chart and Available Sizing

The oversized silhouette of Vetements dresses makes the sizing quite different than typical dress brands. Here’s an overview of the size chart options:

Regular Sizing

• XXS = US 00-0
• XS = US 2-4
• S = US 6-8
• M = US 10
• L = US 12
• XL= US 14-16

Men’s Sizing

Some oversized dresses come in men’s sizing:

• S = US XS
• M = US S
• L = US M
• XL = US L
• XXL = US XL

One Size Fits Most

Many oversized t-shirt and hoodie dresses come in a “one size fits most”, usually suited for US sizes XS – L.

Tips:

• Size down for a less oversized fit
• Size up to lean into the slouchy proportions
• Pay attention to material – stiffer fabrics won’t drape as oversized
• Try on in person if you can to get the right exaggerated shape for you

While the sizing is unconventional, you can find a Vetements dress to fit and flatter your body by selecting the right exaggerated silhouette.

Fabrics that Give the Luxe Look

You are making an investment with a Vetements dress, so the fabrics and materials used certainly contribute to the luxury price points.

Here are some of the high-quality fabrics you’ll find used in Vetements dresses:

Cotton – From jersey knits to poplin, cotton is used for t-shirts and casual dresses. Often an overdyed, vintage wash gives a worn-in softness.

Satin – Slip dresses use satin for its luxurious sheen. Light and fluid, it drapes beautifully on the bias cut shapes.

Crepe – Another go-to for sleek slip dresses, crepe has a matte finish and perfect drape. It flatters without clinging.

Chiffon – Ethereal chiffon lends fluttering movement to ruffle-trimmed styles. The lightness contrasts the oversized shape.

Denim – Non-stretch denim crafted from premium Japanese or Italian mills lends weight. Used for shirt dresses and basics.

Wool – Luxurious wool crepe or boiled wool add structure and warmth to long sleeve options. The rich texture uplifts simple shapes.

Leather – Buttery soft lambskin is used to give an edgy vibe. Often seen on wrap dress details like shoulders or trim.

Silks – From georgette to charmeuse, silky fabrics are seen in both loungewear inspired and formal dresses.

These high-end fabrics help justify the pricing and give that effortless luxe look. Combined with exaggerated shapes and deconstruction, the dresses maintain complexity.

Vetements Style is Often Unisex or Androgynous

The oversized, avant-garde vibe of Vetements makes many of their pieces appealing across genders. Some details about the unisex styling:

• Many t-shirt dresses and hoodie dresses are modeled on both male and female bodies.
• Simple slip shapes work as effortless dresses or covering layers over pants.
• Oversizing and dropped shoulders remove traditional fitted gender cues.
• Cotton poplin shirt dresses are borrowed from menswear.
• Some longer length hem options cater to taller body types.
• Stretch fabrics and elastic waists keep shaping flexible.
• Weightier fabrics like denim or wool sweater knits add structure.
• Graphic prints and hoodies appeal to a streetwear lover vs strictly feminine.

The beauty of Vetements dresses is their ability to be worn in an intentionally androgynous way. Sizing up can make the silhouettes even more gender fluid.

Dressing Up a Vetements Dress for Formal Occasions

While Vetements has that laidback, grunge vibe, some of their dress styles can definitely be dressed up for formal occasions. Here are some tips:

Maxi Length – Floor-sweeping hems instantly elevate shorter dresses. Look for Vetements maxi lengths.

Satin Fabrics – The luxe sheen of satin dresses makes them perfect for black tie or gala nights.

Metallics – Silver lame or shimmery gold dresses shine for holiday soirees.

Sequins – Go glam in a sequined Vetements slip dress with a cowl neck.

Statement Jewels – Adorned with gems, a simple dress transforms. Try large crystal earrings.

Bare Shoulders – Opt for spaghetti straps or off-the-shoulder styles to show some skin.

Cascading Ruffles – A waterfall of ruffles makes any dress red carpet worthy.

Cinched Waist – A belt on an oversized dress defines your waist and adds polish.

High Slits – A thigh-high slit amps up the va-va-voom factor!

Dramatic Makeup – Smoky eyes, red lips and big lashes complement the high fashion vibe.

Don’t be afraid to dress up your cool Vetements dress for formalwear. Luxe fabrics and unexpected silhouettes make them perfect showstoppers.

The Color Palette of Vetements Dresses

While many Vetements dresses use black as that perfect gothic base, they offer a wider range of colors too. Here are some to look for:

Black – The classic shade for moody, grunge styles. A staple for day to night dressing.

White – Crisp, bright white pops against slouchy silhouettes. It makes for an unexpected summer dress.

Gray – From heathered charcoal to cement, gray adds urban edge and pairs with anything.

Earth Tones – Burnt orange, olive green and camel are often seen on casual cotton dresses.

Pastels – Pretty shades like lilac, buttercream and dusky pink lend feminine flair.

Neon – Vivid neon shades like yellow and coral provide playful pops of color.

Metallic – Silver, gold and rose gold dresses shine for nights out.

Red – Scarlet or wine red makes a vibrant statement and grabs attention.

Animal Prints – Bold leopard and zebra prints mix edgy and glam vibes.

’90s Inspired – Muted plaids, checks and florals give off a ’90s vibe.

Vetements uses color to modernize the grunge look. Pick a hue that fits your personal style – soft pastels or bold neon brights.

Caring for Your Vetements Dress

To protect your investment, proper care and cleaning methods are key for Vetements dresses. Here are some top tips:

• Follow the Fabric Care Labels – Most are dry clean only or hand wash if needed.
• Hand Wash Delicately – Use a gentle detergent for items that can be hand washed and avoid wringing.
• Dry Clean with a Reputable Cleaner – Ask for light/delicate settings and presses if needed.
• Spot Clean When Possible – Use a damp cloth to spot treat stains before they set.
• Steam or Air Dry – Lay flat or hang to dry, shaping the garment back into place. Avoid direct heat.
• Use Garment Bags – Store in breathable cotton garment bags away from direct sunlight.
• Avoid Hangers – Hanging can stretch out straps or necklines so fold and store dresses instead.
• Repair Loose Threads – Carefully trim any loose stitches to avoid further damage.

With some tenderness and care, your Vetements dress can last for many seasons. Follow the instructions to keep the fabrics and construction looking pristine.

Can a Vetements Dress Be an Everyday Look?

Thanks to their laidback oversized vibe, many Vetements dress styles can definitely work for everyday wear. Some tips:

Oversized T-shirt Dress – T-shirt dresses are just like an elongated tee – casual and comfy for off-duty days.

Hoodie Dress – Just like a hoodie sweatshirt, this is the ultimate loungewear piece.

Denim Shirt Dress – Non-stretch denim makes this a perfect everyday option that pairs with everything.

Slip Dress and Cardigan – Add coverage and warmth with an oversized cardigan over a slip.

Babydoll with Boots – Toughen up a babydoll dress by pairing it with chunky combat or biker boots.

Leather Jacket – Contrast a feminine dress with an edgy leather or moto jacket.

Sneakers – White sneakers or retro high-tops dress down fancy dresses and make them casual.

Bike Shorts – Wear a short dress over black bike shorts for easy movement and coverage.

Thanks to their oversized shapes, Vetements dresses require little thought or effort for daily wear. Just add your favorite sneakers or jacket.

How Durable Are Pricey Vetements Dresses?

With such steep price points, it’s fair to wonder – how durable are these designer dresses? Here’s my take:

The construction itself is well done. Seams are cleanly finished, hangs are reinforced, and hardware stays securely attached. You can tell skill went into the deconstruction and intentional raw edges.

Thicker fabrics like denim and wool hold up extremely well. There’s little pilling or distortion over time. You’ll get years of wear from denim dresses.

More delicate materials like slippery satins can show wear more easily. Chiffon may get tiny holes and shredded hems with extended wear.

Hand wash only care limits the longevity for some styles. Those only dry clean pieces require extra attention.

Some details like raw hems may intentionally fray and distress further. Embrace that as part of the vintage vibe!

Oversized fits reduce stretching stress on seams which helps. But hanging straps can lose shape over time.

Overall Vetements dresses are well made from luxe, high-end fabrics. With proper care, they should maintain their beauty for many seasons before signs of wear show.

Unique Details That Make Vetements Original

Beyond their avant-garde silhouettes, Vetements dresses incorporate creative touches that make them special:

• Exaggerated proportions – sleeves that extend far past your hands and extra long hems
• Inside-out seams and tags purposefully exposed for that deconstructed vibe
• Misspelled branding and quirky sayings printed on dresses
• “Security” tape detailing that mimics crime scene aesthetics
• Spliced fabrics – think a wool panel on a satin dress
• Subtle logos – the Vetements name printed just inside a sleeve or the back collar
• Oversized pockets – roomy front kangaroo pockets on hoodie dresses
• Asymmetric hems – ranging from mini to maxi lengths within one dress
• Photorealistic prints – collages of photos or graphic imagery covering the dresses
• Repurposed pieces – recognizable sarcastic corporate logos placed overtop dresses

These clever touches and construction details are what gives Vetements its reputation as an innovative disrupter in fashion.

How Vetements Compares to Other Avant-Garde Luxury Brands

Vetements may have brought the oversized, deconstructed look to the forefront, but how does it compare to other avant-garde luxury brands on the market?

Balenciaga is most similar – also lead by Demna Gvasalia, you’ll see extreme shapes and proportions. Balenciaga however delves more into futurism.

Maison Margiela pioneered deconstructionist style. But Margiela offers more refinement and cleaner execution than the DIY Vetements vibe.

Y/Project plays with disproportion and oversizing but in a more tongue-in-cheek, conceptual way. The whimsy sets it apart from the moodier Vetements.

Comme des Garcons also provides avant-garde pieces but with more structure and sculptural shapes. Comme favors bold prints and graphics.

Rick Owens has a dark, gothic appeal with unique draping and textures. But his asymmetry and complex cuts contrast Vetements’ casual feel.

Raf Simons delivers modern minimalism with playful nods to youth culture. His gowns provide avant-garde formalwear more than streetwear.

The oversized proportions may overlap across these progressive high fashion houses, but Vetements still stands apart in terms of branding and embracing casual anti-fashion.

Pricing Breakdown of Vetements Dresses

As a luxury brand, Vetements dresses certainly come with big price tags. Here’s an overview of what to expect:

Entry-level: $800 – $1200

The most affordable Vetements dresses are short, casual t-shirt and hoodie styles. Simple cotton jersey and smaller prints keep these prices down.

Mid-range: $1200 – $2200

Mid-length shirt dresses, long-sleeve options and slinky slips make up the bulk of the mid-tier pricing. More embellishment and finer fabrics are used.

High-end: $2200 – $4000+

Floor-length gowns, sequined fabrics, leather details and couture-like construction make up the highest tier. These are red carpet and high fashion looks.

Some factors that increase pricing:

• Full length gowns require more fabric
• Embellishments like beads, sequins or feathers
• More complex structuring like ruffles or asymmetric cuts
• Exclusive limited edition pieces and collaborations
• One of a kind custom-made or couture dresses

While rarely inexpensive, you can find select entry Vetements dresses just under $1000. But most reside in that mid-range luxury pricing.

Reviews from Real Vetements Dress Owners

Beyond the runway, what’s the real-world experience of owning and wearing a Vetements dress like?

Here are some genuine thoughts from reviews:

“This dress is so cool and edgy. I get nonstop compliments whenever I wear it. A major confidence booster for stepping outside your comfort zone!”

“At first I was overwhelmed by the gigantic silhouette but once I embraced it, I felt fierce! It’s definitely a statement piece not for the faint of heart.”

“The fabric and construction is impeccable – you can tell how pristine and luxe it is immediately upon touching it.”

“I love how original Vetements designs are. Their dresses always start conversations and create an impact.”

“Be prepared to have this dress swallow you whole! I sized down twice and it’s still huge. But I guess that’s the intended styling.”

“Not going to lie – I had major buyer’s remorse at first. But after wearing it out, I received so many flattering reactions that it reinforced the splurge.”

“This aesthetic isn’t suited for everyone. But for my bold personality, Vetements just clicks. I felt like the best version of myself in one of their statement dresses!”

Where to See and Try On In Person

While you can find Vetements dresses at luxury retailers online, it’s best to try them on in person at least once to get a feel for the avant-garde fit. Here are some top stores that stock Vetements:

Vetements Flagship Boutique – Visit the brand’s conceptual retail space in Zurich to view the full range of collections.

Dover Street Market – This renowned multi-brand boutique features Vetements in locations like London, New York, Singapore and more.

Browns – A top UK luxury fashion destination, Browns stores like London carry the latest Vetements styles each season.

H. Lorenzo – With boutiques in Los Angeles, this influential retailer stocks Vetements alongside other progressive brands.

Luisa Via Roma – The Florence based boutique ships worldwide and offers in-store Vetements shopping for European travelers.

SSENSE – Their Montreal and LA stores allow you to browse Vetements dresses in person before purchasing online.

Check out these retail destinations to get up close to Vetements original dresses in person. Trying them on is the best way to gauge the exaggerated fit and shape.

Vetements Dress Return Policies Vary By Retailer

One benefit of being able to try on in person is getting your sizing and fit right. But in case you need to make returns, here are some Vetements dress return policies to know:

Vetements Online Store – 14 day returns, in original condition. Customer pays return shipping.

Net-a-Porter – 30 day free returns. Provide reason for return and they’ll refund original payment. Return shipping is free.

MyTheresa – 30 days for returns. Customer covers shipping costs. Items must be unused with tags attached.

SSENSE – Accepts returns of unworn items within 14 days of delivery. Customer responsible for return shipping costs.

MatchesFashion – Full refund if returned within 28 days. Return shipping is free.

Farfetch – 14 days for returns. Return shipping costs deducted from refund amount.

TheRealReal – Accepts returns of items that don’t match listing descriptions within 4 days of delivery.

Revolve – Offers free return shipping within 30 days for U.S. and Canada. After 30 days, items can be exchanged for store credit.

Check individual retailer policies closely, as return timeframes and conditions vary. And always keep your receipts!

How To Wear Vetements Dresses for Casual Outfits

Vetements oversized aesthetic lends itself perfectly to casual, laidback outfits. Here are some ways to wear their dresses for daytime:

• Team with simple white sneakers or slip-on Vans.
• Layer over a graphic band tee for a skater vibe.
• Add an oversized denim or leather jacket on top.
• Cinch with a wide corset or utility belt.
• Pair with sporty baseball caps for urban edge.
• Throw on a beanie for a chill 90’s look.
• Contrast feminine dresses with Dr. Martens or combat boots.
• Go normcore with a fanny pack or sneaker bag.
• Pile on multi-layered necklaces and chokers.
• Swing a backpack over one shoulder.
• Carry a cute printed tote bag instead of a purse.
• Add some edge with a nose ring or stack of bracelets.
• Ground the volume with skinny ripped jeans.
• Finish with some retro shade sunglasses.

Vetements over-the-top proportions and casual fabrics make these dresses a streetstyle dream. Have fun mixing high-low elements to your own taste.

In Summary

Hopefully this comprehensive guide covered all your questions about the coveted Vetements dress.

While certainly an investment, a Vetements dress offers the chance to own a true high fashion statement piece from one of the most influential designers of our generation. The brand has sparked a revolution in the use of oversizing and anti-fashion silhouettes.

By embracing the avant-garde proportions and unconventional vibes, their iconic dresses push creativity and self-expression through clothing. That’s a beautiful thing.

So if you have your eye on one of these conversation-starting dresses, use this advice to find the perfect Vetements look that speaks to your personal style. Then wear it with confidence and pride!