15 Wrap Dresses and Outfits Ideas
The wrap dress is having something of a moment in the spotlight this season
The wrap dress is having something of a moment in the spotlight this season, for many different reasons. Its versatile style, easy-to-wear design and the endless supply of colours and prints, the wrap dress should be in every clothing collection and wardrobe. A staple of SS18 that will no return again next year, what it is about the wrap dress that makes it such a statement style?
In reality, the wrap dress has been around for over 4 decades. Its origin lies with none other than Diane von Furstenberg, who is credited with inventing the flattering design. She originally designed a wrap top with a skirt, which blew up into something of a phenomenon in 1974. It was described as a completely effortless style, allowing women to feel smart and well presented yet still feminine.
Not only was it easy to wear, it was also very easy to pack in your suitcase and so adaptable to different accessories and styling methods. Characterised by a simple wrap feature around the waist, women could tie it many different ways to create different looks while pulling it in tight to create an even more womanly silhouette. One of the most stylish dresses, it’s been seen everywhere this summer; and for good reason, it seems!
Choosing The Right Wrap Dress
A wrap dress has a playful, lightweight style that can be worn for so many different occasions. From the office to the bar and even the beach, wrap dresses have a versatility you don’t come across very often on such a scale. It’s no surprise that DVF’s design became a cult item.
When it comes to choosing a wrap dress to include in your own collection, the choice is overwhelming. However, a wrap dress suits pretty much every body type, so whether you’re catering for petite, tall or curvy, there’s a style to match what you’re looking for.
The best advice when shopping for a wrap dress is to keep it light; look for colour and pattern to really turn the wrap dress into a statement piece in your collection. Floral prints are always popular but experiment with more tropical takes on the age-old pattern for something different. Likewise, stripes add to the flattering silhouette of a wrap dress. If you opt for a simple, block colour, make sure it’s something bold like orange or royal blue.
Consider the length too; wrap dresses are beautiful both short and long, so decide which style would fit better with your existing collection!
How To Style Your Wrap Dress
Depending on whether you’re trying to achieve a daytime or evening look, you can style your wrap dress in multiple different ways. A patterned wrap dress looks great in the summer paired with white trainers, sunglasses and a cross-body bag. Ideal for brunching, shopping and sightseeing, this is a chic and sophisticated look.
To take your wrap dress into the night, swap out the shoes for a pair of strappy heels or heeled boots and add some glam with jewelry and a handbag! Simple.
If you want to be a little different; styling a wrap dress as a kimono is incredibly unique. Wear it open over a simple cami top and jeans for an effortless summer look. This is great for casual work attire or heading out on the weekend!