Why the wrap dress is still the most wearable style – and the best versions to buy now

Stylist Loves


Why the wrap dress is still the most wearable style – and the best versions to buy now

By Polly Knight

5 years ago

Summer’s most versatile dress; chic, flattering and appropriate for every occasion. It’s no wonder we’re still in love with the wrap dress. 

The wrap dress is one of those styles that has seemingly been around forever. Or half a century, at least. Diane von Furstenberg built an entire career after founding it in 1974 — a knitted wrap style dress, crafted from jersey, that went on to define both her brand and her life for its universally flattering silhouette. In fact, it’s so important to the history of fashion that a DVF wrap dress resides in the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. 

Today, its influence shows no signs of waning. It’s beloved primarily for the fact that it’s super wearable, it has become part of our staple wardrobe along with our white jeans and oversized blazers — a wrap dress can be dressed up with heels for weddings and parties, or dressed down, with sandals and trainers. 

It’s also one of the styles that more often than not comes with a full sleeve and midi lengths (great for the office). It’s flattering (nips in at the waist, and a great style for bigger busts) and it’s also super elegant, comfortable, makes us feel good and look great. Win win.

With bold prints, cool linens and classic styles theres something for everyone. So whether you’re in need of a new everyday dress to wear when working from home or a weekend look for those visits to the park, you’re bound to find something you’ll love. Here’s our pick of the best styles to buy now. 

& Other Stories

This is a great occasion dress, subtle and elegant, with great attention to detail. Try accessorising with other pastels, or if that’s too clashy for you, opt for white and pile on the hair accessories.  

Ruffle dress, £120, & Other Stories 

BUY NOW

Johanna Ortiz x H&M

This bold floral dress has flamenco vibes to it. Dress up with your strappy square toe heels and a flash of red lipstick for a chic statement look, and dance the night away. 

Floral print dress, £39.99, Johanna Ortiz x H&M   

BUY NOW

Ganni

Ganni is the epitome of Scandi cool. It’s laid back luxe aesthetic means it’s the go-to for the ‘wear everywhere’ wrap dress. Dress up with your mules or try with your black chunky sandals.  

Floral dress, £255, Ganni

BUY NOW

Casa Raki

Linen is trending for summer. Don’t worry about the ironing, embrace the crumples and creases and accessorize with your layered gold jewellery. 

Linen dress, £385, Casa Raki

BUY NOW

Ghost

This cool cotton dress from fashion team favourite Ghost has got us dreaming of summer holidays (the park will do for now). Try with your tan sandals and classic sunnies, and have an Aperol in hand.

Cotton dress, £169, Ghost

BUY NOW

Monki

It doesn’t matter what style of dress it is, you’ll always need one in black. This is a great work look; perfect for WFH or the office (when we eventually get there). Finish off your look with comfy classic shoes.  

Black dress, £35, Monki 

BUY NOW

Topshop

Floaty florals for summer, aren’t ground breaking, but if it ain’t broke don’t fix it. This is a surefire hit for the season. Team with your white trainers and basket bag for a perfect summer in the city look. 

Floral dress, £39, Topshop

  

BUY NOW

Main image: Getty Images

undefined

By signing up you agree to occasionally receive offers and promotions from Stylist. Newsletters may contain online ads and content funded by carefully selected partners. Don’t worry, we’ll never share or sell your data. You can opt-out at any time. For more information read Stylist’s Privacy Policy

Thank you!

You’re now subscribed to all our newsletters. You can manage your subscriptions at any time from an email or from a MyStylist account.