dressy

adjective

ˈdre-sē 

dressier; dressiest

1

: showy in dress

2

: stylish, smart

dressy clothes

3

: requiring or characterized by fancy or formal dress

a dressy affair

dressiness noun

Synonyms of dressy

• dress
• formal
• stylish
• fashionable

Examples of dressy in a Sentence

Those shoes are so dressy, I rarely wear them.

She wore an outfit that was much too dressy for the occasion.

Recent Examples on the Web

This mix of casual and dressy vibes creates a combo that’s comfortable, authentic, and full of personality. — René Chávez Esparza, Glamour, 9 July 2026

The entertaining expert has worn platforms multiple times recently with both dressy and casual outfits. — Jamie Allison Sanders, PEOPLE, 3 July 2026

And the square neckline lends this floaty silhouette just enough structure to pull it in a more dressy direction. — Tanya Sharma, InStyle, 27 June 2026

There are plenty of vacation moments that call for something dressier than sandals but far more comfortable than heels, and these raffia flats fit the bill perfectly. — Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 26 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1737, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for dressy

• bessy
• cressy
• jesse
• messy

Kids Definition

dressy

adjective

ˈdres-ē 

dressier; dressiest

1

: showy in dress

2

: suitable for formal occasions

dressy clothes