With its loose, lengthy silhouette, the drop waist has made a chic resurgence. The drop waist, which is defined by a waistband that falls below the natural waist, frequently close to the hips, gives modern ensembles an attractive, vintage-inspired touch.
The drop waist is a timeless and adaptable trend that works for any occasion, whether you're dressing up or choosing to keep things casual. Balance it with the right top and play with different lengths to style it in a way that flatters your body.
Here is a guide to wearing drop-waist fashions, along with advice on body types that look good.
How to wear the drop waist
- Balance with the right top: Drop-waist dresses and skirts elongate the torso, so try to create a balance on top by pairing them with fitted or cropped jackets, blazers, or sweaters. This will prevent your outfit from looking too bottom-heavy.
- Play with length: Drop-waist dresses come in various lengths, from mini to maxi. For a modern look this winter, try a mini drop-waist dress with tights and ankle boots. Maxi dresses can be perfect for formal occasions as they give a more vintage-inspired look.
- Pair a long drop-waist skirt with a tucked-in blouse for a chic office look, or go casual with a t-shirt for weekends.
- Add accessories: Layer your look with belts, necklaces, or scarves to add structure and style to a drop-waist look. A belt worn just above the drop waist can help define the waist and create a more fitted shape.
- Choose the right footwear: Drop-waist dresses and skirts work well with everything from flats to heels. Pairing them with heels or ankle boots can add height and create a more elongated silhouette, which is especially flattering if the drop waist sits low on the hips.
Drop waists are flattering on many body types. Here’s how different shapes can make the most of this style:
- Hourglass: Look for drop-waist dresses that slightly taper around the hips or have a subtle flare to emphasise your curves. Avoid oversized styles, which might hide your natural shape.
- Rectangle: Drop-waist dresses are ideal for those with rectangular body shapes, as they create the illusion of curves and add a soft, feminine silhouette. A drop-waist dress with ruffles or pleats at the bottom adds volume and shape.
- Apple: If you carry weight around the midsection, opt for a drop-waist style with a relaxed fit that skims over the tummy area. This will create a longer, more streamlined shape. Dresses with a slight flare at the bottom help to balance proportions.
- Pear: For pear shapes, choose a drop-waist dress that is fitted at the top and flows loosely at the hips. This style accentuates the upper body while drawing attention away from the hips. Patterns and colour-blocking on the upper half can also bring attention to the shoulders and neckline.
- Petite: Petite figures should look for drop-waist dresses with a slightly higher drop, as a very low drop waist can shorten the legs. Pair with heels to add height and elongate the silhouette for a balanced look.
The drop waist offers a relaxed yet stylish option for everyday fashion. Balance your look with fitted tops, well-chosen accessories, and the right footwear to achieve a chic and modern silhouette.
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