Amidst the silky, boxy, and generally tent-like moon dresses thrown over swimsuits and such this time of year, a new, more contoured picture has entered the talk. A more fitted, drop-heel type of dress is gaining popularity in recent days, and not just among content designers. Fashion names like Merlette and RHODE, Merlette and Carolina Herrera, and other girl-loved fashion houses have all jumped on board the ultra-feminine appearance, which highlights a longer neck and is made more noticeable by a waistband that hits lower on the hips or at the lower knee.
While it may be in a 21st-century enlightenment, the cut stomach look about hundred times. The ultra-low belly image was all the rage amongst the bohemian set, usually worn against wide, movement-friendly small and midi dresses. The fit-and-flare A-line clothes that were popular at the time continued to appear with the neck somewhat rising in the 1940s and 1950s. The drop waist had its final major force in the 1960s and 1980s, where it was embraced in the mod-style change clothes and the fresh influx graduation picture, both. But, for the last 25 to 30 years, the style has remained in relative obscurity — until now. Over the past couple of years, the low-slung look has been popping up in more and more designer collections, likely driven by Gen-Z’s penchant for nostalgia and all things vintage.
The throwback silhouette, however, offers a fresh way to picture a vintage party or sundress and highlight the human form for designers. Drop waist silhouettes are popular because they are elongating, flattering, and very elegant, according to Marina Cortbawi, founder and creative director of. “It’s a really nice way of playing with proportions, especially with our voluminous silhouettes.”
The drop-waist dress, a personal stylist in San Diego, has a reputation for hitting the perfect balance between looking polished and feeling undeniably comfortable, which is why people are starting to gravitate toward it. They exude a chic, effortless vibe that speaks to refined taste and timeless style, she explains to TZR.” They exude a sophisticated silhouette that subtly flatters without being too flashy. “For daytime, I love pairing a light cotton or poplin dress with chunky fisherman sandals, a cute crossbody, and a classic wide braid raffia hat — instant beach-to-brunch vibes. Or, if you’re a city girl, I recommend sleek ballet flats and a large slouchy bag to tackle all your errands.”
Ahead, shop TZR’s picks of the best drop waist dresses for summer and beyond.
This floral, hip-hugging smocked dress epitomizes the sundress style.
For your next date night, pack this ivory corsetted maxi.
Between the vibrant emerald green hue and easy, elongating silhouette, this little number is as dreamy as it gets.
For your upcoming summer wedding, what fun and colorful options are there? This KHAITE periwinkle mini is a must-try.
A navy drop-skirt midi dress is a must-have for the entire year that can handle the winter and fall seasons.
This ankle-grazing maxi dress is a must-have for your next vacation thanks to its buttery soft knit fabric and earthy cocoa color scheme.
A drop-heeled midi gown can really add romance to a more formal occasion, especially when paired with Mary Jane pumps that are equally dainty.
All the retro vibes are delivered by a seductive red mini with a contoured drop-waist.
With a whimsical rosette and flattering drop waist, Carolina Herrera modernizes the classic poplin dress design.
Rhode’s Lettie style is made in a featherweight cotton-and-viscose voile so it’s as comfy as it is fun.