I’m no stranger to wrap dresses. And because I'm rather tall, it can be a bit of a challenge finding the perfect summer wrap dress year after year.
Often, the trends of the moment only work for a particular style or body type, which means the rest of us have to fend for ourselves in order to find other flattering, quality pieces each season. And, really––who has time for that?
My own momentary desperation to find a summer wrap dress that flattered me and suited my style, all before my vacation departure dates closed in, has gifted me with the strange fortune of having seen and tried (what certainly feels like) them all.
Related: Our Favorite Floral Dresses
When it comes to finding the perfect wrap dress, I've definitely learned a thing or two. For summer, a wrap dress that can take you from poolside mimosas to happy hour aperitif, from afternoon boat rides to dinner in the evening, is ideal. We’re talking versatility and aesthetics. You may not want to be wearing the same dress for every occasion, but it's indubitable that the effortlessness involved with being ready on a whim for a change of plans for a day-to-night date is totally appealing.
Another thing to note about the construction of your perfect summer dress is the common flaw among wrap dresses: the excessive gap in the dress’s center when it’s wrapped. Ensure your dress isn’t showing off more than you’re hoping to by trying it on and giving it a twirl. If you’re like me, however, and you prefer the ease of online shopping, take a look at the angle of the bias on the outer side of the dress. If it’s too rounded, especially if the dress is short, you may have some problems.
Now, about this dress.
To buy: $545, net-a-porter.com
The Eloise printed silk-crepe wrap maxi dress by (none other than) Diane von Furstenberg has carried me through spring and will continue to be my go-to through early fall.
You’ve heard of the DVF wrap dress legacy. You likely even own a few yourself. And while this is not the form-fitting, classic DVF style you’re familiar with, it does include some of the same details that make her dresses so fantastically flattering.
Related: Beautiful Dresses to Wear to a Spring or Summer Wedding
The v-neck on this maxi wrap dress hits at the center of the collar bone––the perfect length to show off some gold or seashell jewelry. Wrap dresses are inherently adjustable, so choose your dress size according to your bust size and this particular v-neck length is guaranteed to flatter.
The placement of the belt on this dress is another detail carried over from the sexier DVF designs. Placed high above the hips, the location of the cinched waist here elongates legs, subtly accentuates hips, and encourages lots of movement, for both you and the dress.
The dress I chose's print is a subtle nod to the polka dot trend of the season, but, like the dress, the print flows around the body, making it both easy on the eyes and complimentary to your shape. Inspired by traditional batik techniques, the print is a beautifully eye-catching marriage of ivory and indigo. But this isn't the only print available.
If warm hues are more your thing, go for the Carson Stripe Foxglove print––which is totally the next one on my list.
To buy: $359, dvf.com
Floating Bouquet Black print will be perfect as the seasons shift.
To buy: $240, dvf.com
The blue floral print on this dress is practically made for an afternoon of yachting.
To buy: $300, net-a-porter.com
I personally plan to make the Eloise dress in the Batik Dot New Navy print my go-to in-flight, by the pool, at the beach, while strolling piazzas, and for dinner dates (with the addition of strappy sandals and a combination of bold and minimalist jewelry).
To buy: Studio Amelia Leather Sandals, $250, net-a-porter.com; Lucy Folk Memphis Milano Gold-plated Earrings, $225, net-a-porter.com; The Row Suede Shoulder Bag, $1,200, net-a-porter.com
