20 Types Of Women Clothing || Iqra F. Chaudhary

I list 20 types of women's clothing. Tops shape the upper body, bottoms define the lower line, dresses deliver complete outfits, outerwear protects and finishes, and undergarments secure comfort and fit. There is no “total” of types, so this focuses on widely worn pieces. We begin with tops.

What are the total types of women's clothing?

The total types of women's clothing do not have a total number, but I cover 20 across 5 main categories. Tops cover the upper body, bottoms clothe the lower body, dresses provide complete coverage, outerwear offers protection, and undergarments.

20 Essential Women's Clothing Types:

Tops:

• Blouse
• Shirt
• T-shirt
• Sweater

Bottoms):

• Jeans
• Skirts
• Trousers

Dresses:

• Phiran
• Gown
• Kurta
• Kaftan
• Maxi
• Gharara

Outerwear:

• Jackets
• Coats
• Blazers
• Hoodies

Undergarments:

• Bra
• Panties
• Socks

Tops form the foundation of daily wardrobes, offering 4 options from formal blouses to sweaters.

What are the types of tops in women's clothing?

Types of women's clothing include 4 primary garment types that can affect mood because clothes selected may be perceived as fashionable, enhancing individuality and confidence, or providing physical comfort.

According to Simply Be's survey of 2,000 UK women, 66% believe how their clothes fit is the most significant factor affecting their confidence. Each top type serves distinct occasions: blouses excel in professional settings, shirts bridge casual and formal wear, t-shirts dominate everyday comfort, and sweaters provide warmth with style.

Blouse

Blouses feature feminine cuts with delicate fabrics like silk, chiffon, or cotton. Design elements include pleats, ruffles, or lace detailing. Research shows perceivers rate individuals wearing custom-tailored garments as more successful, salaried, and confident. Professional blouses typically button from neck to waist with 6-8 buttons spaced evenly.

Shirt

Shirts maintain structured designs with collars, cuffs, and full-length button plackets. Oxford cotton typically weighs 140-160 GSM for durability. Standard measurements include collar sizes ranging from 14 to 16 inches. Business shirts feature 7-9 buttons, while casual versions use 5-6 buttons.

T-shirt

T-shirts utilize jersey knit fabric typically weighing 120-180 GSM, with lightweight tees in the 120-150 GSM range and standard weight at 150-180 GSM. Necklines include crew (sits at collarbone), V-neck (drops 4-6 inches), and scoop (curves below collarbone). According to 2016 data, U.S. women purchased an average of 37 articles of clothing annually.

Sweaters

Sweaters employ knitted construction with varying weights. Wool fabrics suitable for autumn/winter typically weigh 10-12 ounces (approximately 300-350 GSM). Styles include pullovers, cardigans with 5-8 buttons, and turtlenecks with extended neck heights. Wool provides superior insulation compared to cotton at equivalent weights.

Bottoms complement these tops through 3 essential styles that define lower-body silhouettes.

What are the types of bottoms in women's clothing?

The types of bottoms in women's clothing are jeans, skirts, and trousers. Choose based on structure and drape needs from the top selection.

Jeans

Denim is measured in ounces per square yard, with lightweight denim under 12 oz, midweight 12-16 oz, and heavyweight over 16 oz. Rise measurements span low (7-8 inches), mid (9-10 inches), and high (11-12 inches). Stretch denim typically contains 2-3% elastane for flexibility. Five-pocket construction remains standard: 2 front pockets, 2 back pockets, and 1 coin pocket.

Skirts

Skirts range from mini (14-16 inches) to knee-length (22-24 inches), midi (30-34 inches), and maxi (38-42 inches). A-line skirts flare gradually from hip to hem; pencil skirts maintain fitted silhouettes. Waistbands typically measure 1.5-2.5 inches wide with various closure options.

Trousers

Trousers feature inseam lengths from 28 to 34 inches with hemming adjustability. Pleat styles include flat-front (no pleats), single pleat, and double pleat options. Fabric weights range from lightweight tropical wool (6-7 oz) to heavy twill (11-12 oz).

Dresses unite upper and lower coverage through 6 culturally significant designs.

What are the types of dresses in women's clothing?

The types of dresses are phiran, kurta, kaftan, gharara, gown, and maxi, which I cover. Generally wrap dress, A-line Dress, Shirtdress, Shift Dress, Bodycon Dress, tunic dress, etc.

Phiran

Phiran extends 48-52 inches from shoulder to hem with a generous chest circumference. Kashmiri artisans employ traditional aari embroidery, creating intricate patterns. Winter phirans layer multiple fabrics for warmth. Traditional colors include maroon, navy, and forest green with metallic threadwork.

Gown

Gowns measure 54-60 inches in floor length with optional train extensions. Bodice structure often incorporates boning for support. Formal gowns require substantial fabric yardage depending on the silhouette. Closure systems include multiple buttons, zippers, or corset lacing.

Kurta

Kurtas range from 28 to 45 inches in length with side slits for movement. Necklines include round, V-neck, and keyhole variations. Standard kurtas use approximately 2.5 meters of fabric. Embellishments concentrate at the neckline, sleeves, and hem using various decorative techniques.

Kaftan

Kaftans spread along the Silk Roads and were worn by dignitaries from China to the Indian Subcontinent, serving as status symbols. Modern kaftans feature generous width, allowing a one-size-fits-most design. Morocco submitted the kaftan for UNESCO recognition in 2024, recognizing it as more than fashion but as a living testament to the country's history, identity, and artistry.

Maxi

Maxi dresses extend 50-58 inches, reaching ankle length. Empire waists sit below the bust, creating flowing silhouettes. Fabric requirements vary by design from 3-4 yards for straight styles to 5-6 yards for fuller designs. Summer maxis use breathable fabrics, while evening versions employ drapey materials.

Gharara

Ghararas feature pants flaring dramatically from knee-level, requiring substantial fabric. Traditional ghararas include multiple panels with decorative trim. The accompanying kurti typically measures 26-30 inches, with the dupatta measuring 2.5 meters.

Outerwear provides essential protection through 4 layering options adaptable to seasons.

What are the types of outerwear in women's clothing?

The types of outerwear in women's outerwear/women's clothing are jackets, coats, blazers, and hoodies. Research shows both men and women indicate that appropriateness of clothing affects their mood. Jackets suit transitional weather, coats protect in cold conditions, blazers layer professionally, and hoodies serve casual comfort.

Jackets

Jackets measure 22-28 inches, hitting hip to mid-thigh. Insulation varies by weight and fill type. Shell fabrics include nylon, polyester, and cotton blends. Standard features include exterior pockets, interior storage, and front zipper closure.

Coats

Coats extend 32-48 inches, providing substantial coverage. Wool coats typically contain wool-synthetic blends for durability. Weight varies by construction and materials. Double-breasted styles feature 6-8 buttons; single-breasted styles use 3-4 buttons.

Blazers

According to research on "enclothed cognition," wearing professional attire like blazers directly influences cognitive processes and performance. Blazers maintain a 26-30 inch length with structured shoulders. Professional blazers feature 1-3 button closures. Interior construction includes chest canvas and shoulder structure.

Hoodies

Hoodies incorporate drawstring hoods for adjustable coverage. Kangaroo pockets provide hand warming and storage. Fleece weights vary from lightweight to heavyweight options. Zipper hoodies use separating zippers; pullovers feature ribbed cuffs.

Undergarments form clothing's foundation through 3 indispensable pieces.

What are the types of undergarments in women's clothing?

The types of undergarments in women's clothing are bras, panties, and socks. Studies show clothing influences how individuals perceive themselves and interact with the world. Proper undergarments provide comfort, support, and a foundation for outer clothing.

Bra

Bras utilize multiple components, including cups, bands, straps, and closures. Band sizes range widely with corresponding cup volumes. According to surveys, 21% of women report portions of their wardrobe as unwearable, often due to improper fit. Support distribution comes primarily from a band with straps providing additional stability.

Panties

Panties offer various coverage options and rise heights. Coverage styles range from minimal to full coverage designs. Research indicates women should have at least 7 pairs of underwear for proper hygiene rotation. Cotton remains the preferred fabric for comfort and breathability.

Socks

Socks range from no-show to knee-high lengths. Cushioning varies by intended use and activity level. Fiber content affects moisture management and comfort. Compression socks apply graduated pressure for circulation support.