7 Tips for Wearing a Wrap Dress All Summer Long
With its highly transitional design, it’s hard to believe there was ever a time without the wrap dress. And yet Diane von Furstenberg invented the first-ever iteration of the style in 1974. Since then, they’ve become a mainstay in the modern woman’s wardrobe: a one-piece showstopper that’s so easy to wear, it’s practically a no-brainer. Still unsure? Here are a few pointers.
Pair Shorter Styles with Flats
During the day, follow the unspoken rule of Francophiles everywhere: Wear flats when the dress is above the knee to ensure you always look effortless.
Get the look: Faithfull The Brand dress ($149); Baggu tote ($180); Frye sandals ($198)
And Longer Hemlines with Heels
When sporting a midi to maxi length anywhere but the beach, use the extra height to keep your outfit elevated (quite literally).
Get the look: A.L.C. dress ($425); Intentionally Blank heels ($189); Urban Outfitters bag ($39); Le Specs sunglasses ($79)
Snag Long-Sleeved Styles in Breathable Fabrics
If you must cover up, a lightweight poplin dress gives a whole new meaning to summer shirting.
Get the look: Topshop dress ($90); Urban Outfitters heels ($189); Designinverso bag ($169); DVF sunglasses ($126)
Don’t Be Afraid to Go Matchy-Matchy
Teaming a bright pattern with neon accessories is appropriate in the blistering heat.
Get the look: MLM Label dress ($180); Rebecca Minkoff clutch ($95); Sam Edelman heels ($100)
Look for Vertical Stripes
The goal is to elongate, especially when the piece is a midi length. (Note the block heels.)
Get the look: Privacy Please dress ($198); B.P. jacket ($69); Kate Spade purse ($149); Splendid heels ($90)
Use Color-Blocking to Whittle Your Middle
Wrap dresses are innately slimming because they tie at the smallest part of your waist. However, if you want to really seal the deal, find a style with bold color-blocked sections that create the illusion of a more slender figure.
Get the look: ECI dress ($88); Rebecca Minkoff clutch ($95); Sam Edelman heels ($100); A.J. Morgan sunglasses ($24)
When It Doubt, Pick a Pattern
Mask any imperfections with a fun (and distracting) print.
Get the look: Vince Camuto dress ($99); Rebecca Minkoff bag ($325); Reebok sneakers ($113); Quay sunglasses ($50)