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3 min read
The halterneck is a note-perfect dress to see you through August and September – and for good reason.
Just like the classic white T-shirt, boyfriend jeans and little black dress, the halter and its ever-flattering neckline is up there in the pantheon of fashion greats.
From the silver starlets of the 50s, including Marilyn Monroe’s billowy all-white backless number in The Seven Year Itch, to Cher, Mia Farrow and Goldie Hawn in the 70s, halterneck dresses are an eternal classic.
And the Resort 2024 collections, presented last month, boasted fresh takes on this iconic style. The most memorable being Lanvin’s intricate silver sequin offerings with trailing neck embellishments and those at Coperni with strappy cut-out dresses with asymmetrical detailing.
Off the runways, celebrities have also been tying on the halter this summer. Margaret Qualley walked down the aisle in a silky white sheath with dainty Mary Janes, while Priyanka Chopra Jonas channelled her inner Marilyn in a plunging backless mini while working on the Love Again press circuit.
Sofia Richie Grainge also showed us how to nail holiday dressing with her black crochet halterneck from Proenza Schouler – a look we’ll be replicating with chunky golden hoops, a contrasting mini beaded bag and slicked-back hair.
From relaxed linen to ditsy florals, there are plenty of halter variations available on the high street to shop this season. Whatever you’re looking for, it’s certainly shaping up to be a backless summer.
Reformation Mairwen Linen Dress
Make a pop in petals in Reformation’s smocked back linen halter. With a flower fastened at the centre of the neckline, this cool-girl corsage dress conjures up images of Carrie Bradshaw in the Rodarte hibiscus white mini. All you’re missing are some peep-toe Manolos…
& Other Stories Halterneck Bow Detail Flared Dress
If flowers aren’t your thing, tie it in a bow with & Other Stories ethereal halter incarnation. Crafted from sumptuous silk-like woven voile and designed with a deep V-cut neckline, this dress is a combination of cutesy and elegant.
Shop & Other Stories Halterneck Bow Detail Flared Dress, £95
Zara Tie-Dye Halter Slip Dress
Looking for a dress that will take you from plane to pool to pillow? Made from the softest satin, this Zara halterneck sheath with tie-dye detailing is lightweight and crease-free – ideal for all your packing needs.
River Island Linen Halterneck Midi
Looking to bring a bit of old Hollywood to your wardrobe? This River Island linen midi dress is sexy and sumptuous, perfect for evening soirees and date nights.
Nobody’s Child Floral Midaxi Halterneck
This Nobody’s Child dress is perfect for the halter novice. Midaxi in length and featuring under-bust seams, it’s ditsy and tropical.
Shop Nobody’s Child Retro Floral Halter Neck Garnet Midaxi Dress, £55
Mango Halterneck Open-back Dress
Look pretty in paisley with Mango’s flowy long-length halterneck. Secured at the neckline and tied in a bow at the back, it’s a classic summer dress with all the 90s coolness.
H&M Open-back Satin Dress
Look stunning in this simple satin halterneck. With a thigh-high slit and sultry neckline, it is perfect for every and any eventuality. Pair with delicate ankle-strap heels and hair loosely tied back to draw the eye to the backless detailing.
Cos Pleated Halterneck Midi
Decorated with precise sun-ray pleats that create a voluminous, flowing silhouette, this Cos midi dress is the most exquisite cobalt blue, guaranteeing you’ll be the centre of attention.
Rouje Ethel Dress
Rouje is elevating the dress game with its latest offerings this summer, including this ribbed midi halter. Designed with a bodice that can be self-tied at the neckline, this is one to wear on rotation.
Images: courtesy of brands
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