Well dressed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Well dressed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is wearing stylish or appropriate clothing. Example: "She arrived at the gala looking well dressed in her elegant evening gown."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Well dressed.

The New Yorker

Everyone is well dressed.

The New York Times

Everybody well dressed.

The New Yorker

They were well dressed.

The New York Times

"He was elegant, well dressed," Szegedi said.

The New Yorker

Seriously: one well dressed woman.

The Guardian

But we are well dressed.

The New York Times - Magazine

Appearance: Young, beautiful, well dressed.

The Guardian - Music

"They look happy and are well dressed.

The Guardian

The clientele is Italian and well dressed.

The New York Times

"Look at how well dressed everyone is".

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as "well dressed", consider specifying what makes their attire stand out. Instead of saying "She was well dressed", try "She was well dressed in a tailored suit and elegant heels."

Common error

Avoid simply stating someone is "well dressed" without providing details. This lacks descriptive impact. Instead, use specific adjectives to convey their style, such as "impeccably tailored" or "effortlessly chic".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "well dressed" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun (usually a person) to describe their attire. It indicates that someone's clothing is stylish, appropriate, and carefully chosen, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "well dressed" is a common and grammatically correct adjectival phrase used to describe someone whose attire is stylish and appropriate. As Ludwig examples show, this phrase appears most frequently in news and media contexts. Alternatives like "smartly dressed" or "fashionably attired" can be used to add nuance. Remember to provide specific details when using this phrase to enhance its descriptive impact. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase follows standard grammar rules.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Smartly dressed

Emphasizes neatness and appropriateness of attire.

Sharp-dressed

Suggests a modern and confident sense of style.

Fashionably attired

Highlights the trendiness and style of the clothing.

Stylishly outfitted

Highlights the careful selection and arrangement of the garments.

Impeccably dressed

Stresses the flawlessness and perfection of the outfit.

Tastefully dressed

Emphasizes the refined and discerning nature of the clothing choices.

Elegantly attired

Focuses on the grace and sophistication of the clothing.

Finely dressed

Focuses on the quality and luxury of the garments.

Dressed to impress

Implies the intention to make a positive impact through clothing.

Well-groomed

Expands beyond just clothing to include overall appearance.

FAQs

What does it mean to be "well dressed"?

Being "well dressed" typically means wearing clothes that are stylish, appropriate for the occasion, and fit the individual well. It often implies attention to detail and a sense of personal style.

What are some alternatives to saying "well dressed"?

You can use alternatives like "fashionably attired", "smartly dressed", or "impeccably dressed" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How can you tell if someone is "well dressed"?

Indicators of someone being "well dressed" might include clothing that is clean and in good condition, fits properly, is appropriate for the setting, and reflects a cohesive and stylish personal aesthetic.

Is being "well dressed" important?

The importance of being "well dressed" is subjective and depends on the context. In some situations, such as job interviews or formal events, it can create a positive impression. In other situations, comfort and personal expression may be prioritized over adhering to strict fashion standards.