Types of Wrap Dresses: A Comprehensive Guide

Wrap dresses are one of the most versatile and flattering pieces of clothing you can own.

They can be worn for different occasions, seasons, and body types.

They can also be styled in various ways to suit your personal taste and mood.

But do you know how many types of wrap dresses there are?

And how to choose the best one for you?

In this article, we will explore the different types of wrap dresses and how to wear them for different occasions.

We will also answer some frequently asked questions about wrap dresses and give you some tips on how to find the perfect one for you.

What are Wrap Dresses?

Wrap dresses are dresses that have a front closure formed by wrapping one side across the other and tying the fabric at the waist or back.

They usually have a V-neckline and a flared skirt.

Wrap dresses were invented by fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg in 1974.

She wanted to create a dress that was easy to wear, comfortable, and flattering for women of all shapes and sizes.

She also wanted to make a dress that could transition from day to night, from work to play, and from casual to formal.

Wrap dresses became an instant hit and a symbol of femininity, freedom, and empowerment.

They are still popular today and have been worn by celebrities like Michelle Obama, Kate Middleton, and Meghan Markle.

What are the Different Types of Wrap Dresses?

There are many types of wrap dresses, each with its own style, fit, and length.

Here are some of the most common ones:

1. The Flirty Wrap Dress

This type of wrap dress has a short hemline that falls above the knee.

It is perfect for showing off your legs and adding some fun and flirtiness to your look.

It can be worn for casual outings, dates, or parties.

Some examples of flirty wrap dresses are The Flirty Wrap Dress - Summertime Tulips, The Flirty Wrap Dress - Blushing Leo, and The Flirty Wrap Dress - Tropical Lemonade.

2. The Midi Wrap Dress

This type of wrap dress has a hemline that falls below the knee and above the ankle.

It is ideal for creating a sophisticated and elegant look. It can be worn for work, weddings, or formal events.

Some examples of midi wrap dresses are The Midi Wrap Dress - Tropical Lemonade, The Midi Wrap Dress - Blue Sky Thinking, and The Midi Wrap Dress - Jade Jungle.

3. The Maxi Wrap Dress

This type of wrap dress has a hemline that falls at or below the ankle.

It is great for creating a dramatic and glamorous look. It can be worn for special occasions, beach vacations, or bohemian vibes.

Some examples of maxi wrap dresses are The Maxi Wrap Dress - Perfect Navy Satin, The Maxi Wrap Dress - Charcoal Grey, and The Maxi Wrap Dress - Dark Royal Blue.

4. The Wrap Playsuit

This type of wrap dress is actually a one-piece outfit that looks like a wrap dress on top and shorts on the bottom.

The Ella Rae Wrap Playsuit - Wedgewood Ovals

It is super cute and playful and can be worn for summer fun, festivals, or brunches.

An example of a wrap playsuit is The Ella Rae Wrap Playsuit - Blushing Leo.

How Do I Wear a Wrap Dress?

There are many ways to wear a wrap dress depending on your personal style, occasion, and season.

Here are some general tips on how to wear a wrap dress:

1.Choose the right fit

A wrap dress should fit snugly around your bust and waist but not too tight or loose.

You should be able to move comfortably and breathe easily.

You should also make sure that the neckline is not too low or high and that the skirt is not too short or long for your height and preference.

2.Choose the right fabric

A wrap dress can be made of different fabrics, such as cotton, silk, satin, crepe, or jersey.

You should choose a fabric that suits your skin tone, season, and occasion.

For example, cotton is breathable and casual, silk is luxurious and formal, satin is smooth and shiny, crepe is textured and elegant, and jersey is stretchy and comfortable.

3.Choose the right color and pattern

A wrap dress can come in various colors and patterns, such as solid, floral, animal print, polka dot, or geometric.

You should choose a color and pattern that flatters your complexion, personality, and mood.

For example, solid colors are classic and versatile, floral patterns are feminine and romantic, animal prints are bold and edgy, polka dots are fun and retro, and geometric patterns are modern and chic.

4.Choose the right accessories

A wrap dress can be accessorized with different items, such as shoes, bags, jewelry, belts, scarves, or hats.

The Vegan Cross Body Bag - Perfect Pink

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You should choose accessories that complement your wrap dress and enhance your look.

For example, shoes can be flats or heels depending on your comfort level and occasion, bags can be clutches or totes depending on your needs and style, jewelry can be simple or statement depending on your preference and outfit, belts can be thin or wide depending on your waistline and dress style, scarves can be wrapped or draped depending on your neckline and weather, and hats can be fedoras or sun hats depending on your face shape and season.

What Body Types Look Good in Wrap Dresses?

Wrap dresses are flattering for all body types because they accentuate your curves and create an hourglass shape.

They also help to balance your proportions and hide any problem areas.

Here are some tips on how to choose the best wrap dress for your body type:

1. Apple Body Type

If you have an apple-shaped body, you have a large bust and midsection but slim legs.

You should choose a wrap dress that has a V-neckline to draw attention to your face and chest, a fitted waist to define your figure, and a flared skirt to add volume to your lower half.

You should also avoid wrap dresses that are too tight or clingy around your tummy or hips.

2. Pear Body Type

If you have a pear-shaped body, you have a small bust and waist but large hips and thighs.

You should choose a wrap dress that has a ruffled or embellished neckline to enhance your bust, a cinched waist to highlight your narrowest part, and an A-line skirt to skim over your hips and thighs.

You should also avoid wrap dresses that are too short or tight around your lower half.

3. Hourglass Body Type

If you have an hourglass-shaped body, you have a balanced bust and hips with a defined waist.

You should choose a wrap dress that follows your natural curves and showcases your assets.

You should also avoid wrap dresses that are too loose or bulky around your waist or chest.

4. Rectangle

If you have a rectangle-shaped body, you have a straight figure with no defined waist.

You should choose a wrap dress that creates the illusion of curves by adding volume to your bust and hips.

You should also avoid wrap dresses that are too plain or straight around your body.

Can Wrap Dresses Be Worn in the Workplace?

Wrap dresses can be worn in the workplace as long as they are appropriate for your dress code and profession. Here are some tips on how to wear a wrap dress in the workplace:

Choose the right length: A wrap dress for work should not be too short or too long. It should fall at or below the knee for a professional look.

The Maxi Wrap Dress - Mulberry Satin

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Choose the right fabric: A wrap dress for work should not be too sheer or shiny. It should be made of a sturdy and wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as cotton, wool, or polyester.

Choose the right color and pattern: A wrap dress for work should not be too bright or flashy. It should be in a neutral or muted color, such as black, navy, gray, or beige. It can also have a subtle or classic pattern, such as stripes, checks, or plaid.

Choose the right accessories: A wrap dress for work should not be too accessorized or overdone. It should be paired with simple and elegant accessories, such as pumps, flats, loafers, or boots, a structured bag, a belt, a watch, or a necklace.

Are Wrap Dresses Suitable for Formal Events?

Wrap dresses can be suitable for formal events as long as they are elegant and glamorous.

Here are some tips on how to wear a wrap dress for formal events:

Choose the right length: A wrap dress for formal events can be short or long depending on your preference and the occasion. A short wrap dress can be chic and flirty for a cocktail party or a date night. A long wrap dress can be stunning and sophisticated for a wedding or a gala.

Choose the right fabric: A wrap dress for formal events can be made of a luxurious and shiny fabric, such as silk, satin, velvet, or sequin. It can also have some embellishments or details, such as lace, embroidery, beads, or ruffles.

Choose the right color and pattern: A wrap dress for formal events can be in a bold or rich color, such as red, purple, green, or gold. It can also have a striking or festive pattern, such as floral, animal print, polka dot, or geometric.

A model posing in the-maxi-wrap-dress-christmas-red from Neonstar

The Maxi Wrap Dress - Mac Red

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Choose the right accessories: A wrap dress for formal events can be accessorized with glamorous and sparkly accessories, such as heels, sandals, stilettos, or wedges, a clutch or a minaudiere, a statement necklace, earrings, bracelet, or ring.

FAQS ABOUT WRAP DRESS

Who looks good in wrap dress?

Wrap dresses are flattering for all body types and can accentuate your curves and create a slimming effect. Wrap dresses can also adjust to your shape and size, making them comfortable and versatile.

What is a full wrap dress?

A full wrap dress is a type of wrap dress that has a front closure formed by wrapping one side across the other, and is fastened at the side or tied at the back. This forms a V-shaped neckline.

Why wear wrap dress?

Wrap dresses are easy to wear and style, as they can be dressed up or down for different occasions. Wrap dresses are also timeless and classic, as they have been popular since the 1970s when Diane von Furstenberg introduced them to the fashion world.

How do you style a simple wrap dress?

A simple wrap dress can be styled with various accessories, shoes, and layers depending on the season and the occasion. For example, you can add a belt, a necklace, or a scarf to add some color and interest to your outfit. You can also pair your wrap dress with heels, flats, boots, or sneakers depending on your mood and comfort level. You can also layer your wrap dress with a cardigan, a denim jacket, or a leather jacket for some extra warmth and edge.

Can you wear jeans with a wrap dress?

Yes, you can wear jeans with a wrap dress for a casual and chic look. You can choose skinny jeans, straight-leg jeans, or cropped jeans depending on the length and style of your wrap dress. You can also tuck in the front of your wrap dress into your jeans for a more fitted look.

What do you wear under a wrap dress?

Depending on the fabric and fit of your wrap dress, you may want to wear some undergarments that provide support and coverage. You can opt for a bra that matches the color of your wrap dress or a bralette that adds some lace detail to your neckline. You can also wear seamless underwear, shapewear, or slip shorts to smooth out any lines and prevent any wardrobe malfunctions.

How do you pair a wrap dress?

You can pair your wrap dress with different items depending on the look you want to achieve. For example, you can pair your wrap dress with a blazer, a trench coat, or a faux fur coat for a more formal and polished look. You can also pair your wrap dress with a sweater, a hoodie, or a knit vest for a more cozy and casual look. You can also mix and match different prints, colors, and textures to create some contrast and fun⁴.

Are wrap dresses good for big belly?

Yes, wrap dresses are good for big belly as they can create an illusion of a smaller waist and hide any bumps or bulges. Wrap dresses can also drape over your belly and skim your curves without clinging or restricting your movement.

Are wrap dresses good for curvy figures?

Yes, wrap dresses are good for curvy figures as they can highlight your best features and balance out your proportions. Wrap dresses can also enhance your bust, define your waist, and flatter your hips.

How do you wear a scarf with a wrap dress?

There are many ways to wear a scarf with a wrap dress depending on the style and length of both items. For example, you can tie your scarf around your neck in a simple knot, a bow, or a loop for some extra flair. You can also drape your scarf over your shoulders or around your arms for some warmth and elegance. You can also use your scarf as a belt or a headband for some versatility.

How do you wear a wrap dress with pants?

You can wear a wrap dress with pants for a modern and trendy look. You can choose pants that match the color or the print of your wrap dress for a coordinated look. You can also choose pants that contrast with your wrap dress for some pop of color or pattern. You can also play with different lengths and styles of pants such as wide-leg pants, cropped pants, or leggings depending on the fit and flare of your wrap dress.