Dress something down
Meaning
To make an outfit or an item of clothing look less formal or more casual.
Origin
The phrase "dress something down" arose from the evolving landscape of 20th-century fashion, as rigid sartorial rules began to loosen and casual wear gained prominence. Prior to this shift, formal attire adhered to strict conventions. However, as lifestyles became more relaxed and individual expression flourished, people started deliberately combining formal garments with informal pieces. This conscious act of reducing an outfit's formality—making it appear more laid-back—gave birth to the idiom. It signifies the deliberate choice to soften the formality of clothing, reflecting a broader cultural move towards comfort and versatility in dress.
Examples
- She decided to dress her elegant silk skirt down with a simple t-shirt and sneakers for a weekend brunch.
- You can easily dress down a sharp blazer by pairing it with ripped jeans and a graphic tee.