The 10 Best Drop Waist Dresses to Shop This Summer

From runways to resort towns, the drop waist dress is reclaiming its throne as the silhouette of the season. Once a hallmark of 1920s flapper fashion and later revived by ‘90s minimalists, the look is now making a bold, breezy comeback just in time for summer. With its signature lowered seam that elongates the torso and adds subtle drama to the hips, the drop waistline offers a fresh alternative to more traditional empire or cinched-waist styles.

Designers have reimagined the silhouette in airy cottons, poplins, and silk slips, making it the ultimate warm-weather staple. Whether it's Carolina Herrera's ankle-grazing number for a chic dinner or Alice + Olivia's flouncy mini for city strolls, the drop waist plays with proportion in a way that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking. Plus, its easy structure complements a range of body types while offering a little extra cool-girl edge—no corsetry required.

From Bella Hadid's Jacquemus black drop waist dress to Kendall Jenner's butter-yellow drop waistline corset dress at Coachella, everyone is leaning into this elongated elegance. If you're looking to switch up your sundress game, consider this your sign: this look is not just a passing trend, but it's the silhouette of summer, and it's here to stay.

Below, L'OFFICIEL rounded up the cutest drop waist dresses, from splurge-worthy designer picks to budget-friendly options.

Carolina Herrera is an obvious go-to choice if you want to feel ultra-feminine this summer. Designer and socialite Carolina Herrera was one of the most fashionable women in New York, and it's clear that creative director Wes Gordon is sticking true to Herrera's roots with this chic, yet traditional, drop waist maxi dress.

Carolina Herrera Sleeveless Drop Waist Cocktail Dress, $2,094, Saks Fifth Avenue

Want to twin with It girl Bella Hadid? Splurge on Jacquemus' dropped waistline black dress that the model was seen sporting while in Cannes last month. If it's Bella Hadid-approved, then it's worth it (right?) 

Jacquemus the Agave Dress, $1,850, Jacquemus

Perfect for breezy summer weather, keep the drop-waist silhouette casual with this shirt dress by Jil Sander. It's two trends in one: the shirt dress, and the dropped-waist dress. What could be more chic?

Jil Sander Satin Dropped Waist Pleated Shirtdress, $1,650, Saks Fifth Avenue

Staud has been having a major moment this year, with fashion lovers flocking to their site and boutiques for statement pieces that strike the perfect balance between effortless and elevated. Case in point: this drop-waist maxi dress that practically defines summer style. While its crisp white hue might not make it ideal for a wedding guest look, it's perfect for everything else on your calendar—from beachside dinners to rooftop soirées.

Staud Ari Poplin Drop-Waist Slipdress, $450, Saks Fifth Avenue

Reformation has built its reputation on effortlessly chic dresses, and this one lives up to the hype. Ideal for a more elevated occasion, the rich red wine hue keeps it classic, while the drop-waist silhouette adds an unexpected touch of drama that sets it apart from your typical minimalist look.

Reformation Camella Dress, $348, Reformation. 

Alice + Olivia has the cutest summer dresses, and this one is a fan favorite. In a flirty red hue and a flouncy skirt, you can wear this every day this summer if you want to keep cute and cool (just make sure you wash it.)

Alice + Olivia Oriana Strapless Drop Waist Minidress, $177, Saks Fifth Avenue

A dropped waist and bubble hem? It's too good to be true. This dress from All the Ways is the perfect cool beige for the summer heat, and will work with your favorite sandal or mesh ballet flat.

All the Ways Aria Maxi Dress, $108, Revolve

This one is screaming wedding guest dress. Astr the Label has created the perfect and affordable dropped-waist dress for everyone looking for a last-minute dress for all the summer weddings ahead.

Astr the Label Drop-Waist High-Neck Dress, $99, Revolve

Aritzia’s Bloomsbury dress is the ultimate summer staple, available in 16 different colorways—so finding your perfect shade is practically guaranteed. The relaxed drop-waist silhouette makes it endlessly versatile: dress it up with strappy heels or keep things low-key with your go-to Adidas Sambas. Just don’t wait too long—many of the most popular colors are already flying off the shelves.

Aritzia GoodLux Bloomsbury Dress, $78, Aritzia

Shopping on a budget? Urban Outfitters has you covered with a variety of stylish dropped-waist options that won’t break the bank. One standout: this charming eyelet mini dress, perfect for a sunny summer date in Central Park or a casual weekend out. 

Urban Outfitters Kiss The Sky Eyelet Boat-Neck Drop-Waist Mini Dress, $69, Urban Outfitters