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Looking for a ‘for every occasion’ dress? These are 11 of the best bandeau styles for the job
8 months ago
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3 min read
Forgo the faff of sliding shoulder straps or too-tight halternecks with these strapless styles.
Any avid Stylist reader will know by now how much we love a dress. Drop-waist, bubble-hem and white cotton nightgowns are just a handful of styles we’ve leaned into this season, but a good ol’ faithful is rising up again in popularity as an elegant yet effortless pick for summer: bandeau dresses.
Also known as strapless dresses, the bare neck style elongates the neck and shoulders in a rather sophisticated manner. If you associate the cut with red carpets or fancier affairs, you may be surprised to learn that they work well for (almost) any occasion.
Loose-fitting, floaty styles are perfect for beach strolls, especially when paired with flip-flops. Denim designs add a more casual twist and micro minis are best reserved for evenings out and long nights of dancing, especially while on holiday. Plus, there’s no need to faff around with too-tight straps or those that fall off your shoulders. Fabulous. Keep scrolling to see 11 of our favourites.
Albaray drop waist bandeau dress
Made from organic cotton with a sheered back, this Albaray dress has been designed with comfort in mind. The cream shade allows the drop-waist silhouette to be the core focus. Plus, it’s made in a more planet-friendly way with responsible fabrics and carbon-neutral shipping.
Asos Design Curve bandeau column midi dress in oversized floral print
For a more striking style, look to this Asos option. Brightening up the dark shade is an oversized floral print, perfect for any occasion – summer weddings, parties, dinner, you name it.
Shop Asos Design Curve bandeau column midi dress in oversized floral print, £34
Bardot Eleni strapless plunge denim midi dress
Bardot has certainly elevated the everyday denim dress with this design. The figure-hugging style accentuates the neckline with a rounded plunge cut, making for an incredibly elegant frock.
Shop Bardot Eleni strapless plunge denim midi dress at Anthropologie, £149
Free-Est 'All for sun' maxi
For an easy, breezy summer look, opt for an oversized strapless dress, such as this Free-Est find. The voluminous skirt creates a soft, floaty silhouette perfect for beach strolls (or city walks daydreaming of warmer climes) while keeping you nice and cool. This style also comes with removable straps if you’d like a little more support.
Omnes Amdra strapless dress in yellow
Buttermilk yellow is one of this season’s most in-demand shades and this Omnes dress fits the bill just perfectly. Whether looking for a wedding outfit, holiday fit or simply a dinner look, it’ll become a go-to for many occasions.
M&S cotton rich ribbed bandeau midi dress
Available in both black and cream, this minimalist number is the perfect pick for days when you don’t know what to wear. Dress it up with heels or vibrant pumps or pare back with a trusty pair of trainers or flip-flops.
Reformation Astoria dress
Reformation is home to a huge number of dresses, this strapless style included. Coming in a small range of shades, from a sky blue to this neutral check, it’s simple in shape yet incredibly elegant in style, making it a great occasionwear find. Plus, it has pockets, which always come in handy.
Mango strapless floral dress
Making a case for a mini is this striking Mango frock, perfect for those looking to bare their legs. Just add red accessories to make the pattern really pop.
Native Youth red bandeau tiered maxi dress
Available in sizes 10 to 28, this pretty pink find can be worn by a whole host of body shapes and sizes. A simple tiered design adds extra volume while the 100% cotton composition will keep you comfy and cool.
Shop Native Youth red bandeau tiered maxi dress at Simply Be, £30.40
H&M denim bandeau dress
Another denim dress, this time with an oversized, floaty fit, comes courtesy of H&M and looks much more expensive than its price tag suggests. Adding to the shape is a fitted bodice, fanned-out skirt and classic yellow stitching to emphasise the structure. Add a pair of chunky boots or trainers and you’ll have a striking look in no time.
Whistles bandeau knit dress
A basic black bandeau dress is one of the most versatile wardrobe essentials. Whether dressed up with a strappy sandal or pared-back with a cowboy boot or even a flip-flop, it’s the for-every-occasion frock that will work its way into any suitcase.
Images: courtesy of brands
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