I must admit that keeping up with the trend cycle is no easy task, and while my predictions about the rise of and the return of the were on the nose, nothing prepared me for the return of the nostalgic and polarizing silhouette: the drop-waist dress. Popular in the Roaring ‘20s, drop-waist dresses have been making a comeback a little over a year after time in the spotlight, sharing a similar timeless essence to its predecessor.
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I saw the move away from high-waist cuts first on a number of runways, including Loewe, Ferragamo and Sandy Liang, marking a shift toward nostalgic frocks. Then, influencers on Instagram and TikTok were quick to swap out their high-waist pieces for the trend, perhaps because of the recent fervor over and aught fashion, from to hip-hugging skirts. Now, it’s hard to miss the elongating styles while shopping major retailers like Shopbop, , and Nordstrom. As fashion begins to lean into an brimming with Aperol spritzes and the promise of ease, elongated silhouettes are at the forefront, with styles that run the gamut from easy-going poplin dresses to sleek wedding guest options for a number of heights, body shapes and sizes.
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Curious to know how the trend is resonating, I asked my colleagues how they are stomaching (literally) the return of the ‘20s cut and took to Instagram polls on my stories, and boy was I was met with polarizing reactions. Though there was an overwhelming 83 percent in favor of the trend on social, many in the office felt differently. “I do NOT like the proportions,” shared one of PureWow’s petite editors. “It makes your legs look short.”
Even I (a supporter of the low seam) have to admit that she has a point—the exaggerated waistline does wonders for those with short torsos who want to lengthen and stretch out their frame, but might make short wearers feel, well, shorter—but, the right silhouette and length can flatter petites, particularly with mini lengths or corseted styles that follow a V-shape rather than a straight cuts across. Don’t forget that a fitted option will enhance your figure rather than overwhelm your petite stature. For those who aren’t petite, PureWow’s Fashion Editor recommends opting for a ‘20s-inspired drop-waist dress that has a straight shift silhouette, especially if you don’t want to emphasize to your hips.
As someone with a short(ish) torso and longer legs, high-waist pants can sometimes minimize my chest and draw attention to my broad shoulders. The exaggerated waistline of a dropped hem strikes a harmonious balance between the proportions of my upper and lower body, giving me the illusion of a longer torso. Honestly, my biggest concern was centered around bloat. Having tried on a handful of drop waist dresses of all kinds, it’s clear to me that this isn’t sisterhood of the travelling dress—no one fit will look the same on everybody; no one material is the magic answer. It all boils down to preference and confidence. Simply put, there’s a real beauty in its complexities, paying homage and celebrating the vast differences of the female form.
So, shimmy into these 15 drop-waist dresses—including a few of my favorite pieces that I’ve been wearing on the reg.
Now here’s a dress I wasn’t expecting to like but ended up falling absolutely head over heels for. Wary of how an exaggerated drop waist (and form-fitting one at that) that falls below my hips would take to my body, I was pleasantly surprised to find it more than flattering. I must give the majority of the credit to the smocked bodice, which actually creates the illusion of a slim and smooth waist while concealing lumps, bumps and bloat. Even the airy poplin fabric has a luxurious weight to it that makes me feel like a million bucks, and the vibrant ocean blue colorway is the bright addition I needed amongst my neutral-colored wardrobe.
The straight shift silhouette is reading modern day 1920s. I first discovered it while perusing the stores in London and loved it the second I put it on. It’s soft and features a classy boat neckline that won me over at first glance. If you’re prone to sweating (same), then the 100 percent cotton fabric will be your best friend in this heat. My sister and I both agree that it’s the ideal travel dress because it’s stretchy, comfortable and unrestrictive—just throw a sweater over your shoulders for good measure and you’re good to go.
ASTR the Label’s Zandra dress makes for a great option because 1) it comes in a classic black that’s both easy to wear and flattering on a variety of bodies and 2) the drop waist on this fall just below your belly button, placing the emphasis above rather than at the widest part of your hips. Plus, it’s just one of those reliable dresses that I can throw on on days when I can’t be bothered to put an outfit together. The relaxed tank top (which is crisscrossed at the back) married with the dramatic full skirt gives it an elevated casual vibe that’s just chic as can be.
If you know me, then you know I’m a sucker for a , so much so that I have to refrain from buying multiple colors. There are so many factors I love about this piece, from the open back to the cutouts at the side, but the smocked fabric at the waist easily takes the cake. It’s comfortable, forgiving and unbelievably lightweight, undoubtedly due to that 100 percent cotton material. I did find that the top of the elasticated back can pucker at times, so I had to smooth it down and adjust the dress every so often, but otherwise, it’s a real winner.
When I think of a gorgeous summer sundress, this maxi comes to mind. If you’re a little hesitant on the whole dropped waist idea, know that the additions of the cutouts helps to break up the long waistline and draw the eye up above the hips. The cotton fabric is so lightweight and thin, so I expected it to show everything, but it was quite smoothing and flattering. I even loved that I could still wear a strapless bra if I wanted to, though my favorite detail was easily the hidden pockets.
Strapless dresses are one of my favorite cuts to wear when I want to show off my decolletage, and NIA’s Santal dress is a knockout. While I didn’t love the polyester fabric, as it can feel quite stuffy, entrap heat and show every little insecurity, I did appreciate how soft it felt on, not to mention how stretchy it was. Now let’s talk about that ruching—for a pretty low drop waist, a ruched bodice will be your BFF when it comes to concealing bloat. I did find that it runs slightly small, and though it does offer some stretch, as I previously mentioned, I’d suggest opting for one size up for a comfortable fit.
This past weekend I saw a photo on Instagram of my sister’s best friend wearing this to a small summer wedding in New York, and I gave her all but two seconds to tell me where it was from. Her answer: Target. With how expensive and elegant it looked on her, the affordable price tag (under $40) had me reeling with excitement, as did the inclusive sizing. One thing I noticed was how the cotton and nylon blend has this gorgeous sheen to it that photographed like a dream, and just wait until you get a glimpse of the strappy ladder-back—there are bows.
It’s the summer of , and this is your sign to lean into both trends with open arms. The drop waist will look uber-flattering on a number of shapes and heights—especially petites— as it follows a V shape, creating a fit and flare silhouette that doesn’t accentuate the hips too much. Plus, the mini length affords a leggy look whether you have long legs or not.
Where are my fellow short torso people at? Here’s a mini dress worthy of that special date night you’ve been looking forward to. It boasts a dramatic drop waist that’s extra elongating and lengthening, with a heavyweight fabric for a smooth and snatched finish. Anthropologie buyer Lisa P. says, “For the larger chested ladies, the ties on the back make everything adjustable enough to wear without a bra.” Readers should note, though, that the skirt will draw attention to your hips, so if you don’t want eyes on that part of your bod, then this may not be for you.
This dress has it all: a halter neckline, dropped waist and pleated A-line skirt. Check, check and check. And that’s not counting the gingham print or ruffle trim, either, which feels like a breath of fresh air amongst the predominately neutral-colored options I see. It’s quite sexy, too, with that deep V-neck that’ll make the girls look their best. All that’s left to say, is get ready to be the best dressed at the picnic.
(Insert salsa dancer emoji here.) The moment I saw a content creator in this sleek dress from House of CB, I knew I had to have it for a special occasion. It’s lined with tulle, accentuating the pleated skirt and giving it some extra oomph in volume. I have yet to try it on, but I’ve felt the material in store and can attest to its luxe quality and weightiness. If it looks this good now, just imagine how divine it’ll look when dancing. The vintage cream colorway will make the most exquisite option for a bride-to-be, too.
Is it a dress or separates? Why not keep ‘em wondering in this WAYF strapless poplin dress, constructed with a jersey bodice in black that creates a striking contrast against the mid-weight cotton skirt in khaki. Good news: There’s a nonslip rubber binding at the neckline, so you won’t have to constantly tug at the top.
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