As we begin to stow away our spring staples and switch to our summer wardrobe, we can’t help but dream about breezy street style as we welcome the warmer weather.
Every summer wardrobe consists of cult classics like linen fabrics, strappy sandals, raffia bags and floaty white dresses, we’ve seen a fresh contender emerge this season: the drop-waist dress.
What do you call a dress with a low waist?
A dress with a low waist called a drop-waist or dropped waist dress. It's also known as the flapper dress. According to The Joy of Fashion, it "is characterised by its low waistband which usually falls more in line with the hips than at the natural level of the waist."
© Getty ImagesWhat body type does a drop waist look good on?
The drop-waist dress elongates the body to enhance the silhouette and is cut off much lower at the hips, rather than the usual style of the waist. This creates the illusion of a longer torso and generally a more hourglass figure.
Are drop waist dresses in fashion?
Spearheaded by the likes of Molly Goddard, Khiate and Proenza Schouler, we’ve seen an increase in low-rise styles and a decline in higher waisted items, also a correlation with the rise of the Y2K style. This is definitely a more minimalistic style and one for a quiet luxury lover, predominantly available in neutral tones. We’ve not yet seen many eclectic print iterations.
© Getty ImagesAfter seeing it on the likes of Ariana Grande, Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber and Lady Gaga, it gets a definite yes from us and is going straight to the top of our wishlist.
Best drop-waist dresses to shop now:
1/12
Illi Dress
Esse Studios
Esse Studios' strapless stretch-knit and silk crepe de chine maxi dress is the epitome of class. Featuring elegant scarf detailing and a monochrome palette, this timeless number radiates South of France chic with ease.
2/12
Hutch The Ridge Dress
Free People
A true princess dress, Free People's blossom pink gown is a feminine statement. Perfect for weddings and summer soirées alike.
3/12
Allis Dress
Reformation
Crafted from lightweight georgette fabric, Reformation's slinky Allis dress is in equal parts sophistication and sass. Pair yours with some kitten heels for a thoroughly feline look.
4/12
Bow-Detailed Gathered Twill Mini Dress
SHUSHU/TONG
SHUSHU/TONG channels magical girl charm in this twill dress, adorned with a bow and pannier-style, petal-gathered skirt. Team with understated ballet flats for a double dose of girlish glamour.
5/12
Smock Mini Dress
& Other Stories
Look lavish in lime with this affordable smocked mini that's set to infuse your wardrobe with some citrus charm. We'd style ours with ballet flats and cat-eye shades.
6/12
Carmel Maxi Dress
Peppermayo
Feel glorious in gingham thanks to Peppermayo's perfect drop waist number. From garden parties to chic city strolling, this piece is primed to become your new go-to.
7/12
Hedy Dress
Faithfull
Faithfull’s Hedy dress comes from the brand’s ‘Letters from Hydra’ line, inspired by the free-spirited charm of a Greek island. Ideal for warm-weather escapes, it features a side-gathered linen bodice and a light, flowing voile skirt.
8/12
Cocoon Draped Voile and Stretch-Knit Maxi Dress
Toteme
Toteme's Cocoon maxi dress embodies sleek simplicity, featuring a fitted stretch-knit top and an airy voile skirt with an asymmetric bubble hem and scooped neckline.
9/12
Short Dress with Combined Design
Mango
Serve up Parisian chic with Mango's affordable mini dress, complete with a gentle puff skirt and classic Breton stripe detailing.
10/12
Enya Dress
DÔEN
Made with a handful of sustainable components, DÔEN's two-tone frock is a cottagecore dream. Crafted from crisp organic cotton-poplin, this breezy gem is perfect for out-of-office European meandering.
11/12
Short Knit Dress
Sandro
Feel fabulous in fringing courtesy of Sandro. Featuring a twinkling glitter knit construction and fringing, this Seventies-tinged number is party-ready perfection.
12/12
Onda Drop-Waist Tube Midi
Free People
Most of the styles we've seen have been more neutral toned, so we love the bright sunshine hue of this Free People number. We'd style it with tan-coloured sandals and a raffia bag for a real summery feel.
How we chose:
- Style: The drop-waist dress has a timeless quality. Our selections vary in design but they are united by the fact that they have a certain lasting appeal and can be styled in multiple ways.
- Price: Variety is key, and therefore alongside pieces by some of our favourite designer labels, we've included some stylish picks from the high street if you're looking to save.
- Brand: Everything on this list is from a range of brands, from high-street to designer.
HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.
