The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word ROMPER
R
O
M
P
E
R
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "dress" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case dress = romper.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does ROMPER mean?
ROMPER noun- Someone who romps or frolics.
- A ship that has moved far ahead of a convoy; see also straggler.
- A onesie.
- To abduct (a victim) to a room where they are tortured and murdered.