Welcome to The Essentials, our weekly series highlighting a must-have classic, key to building a timeless, pulled-together closet.
Are you on the hunt for a dress that will never, I repeat never, go out of style? Then look no further than the wrap dress. This wardrobe staple has been around for nearly a century, but here's a quick refresher: Diane von Furstenberg reinvented it in the '70s, creating a dress that embodied simplicity and sexiness while also feeling uncomplicated and functional. When the designer landed on the cover of Newsweek in 1976 wearing one of her iconic creations, the wrap dress trend was cemented into fashion history for good.
Today, the wrap dress still remains a great option for accentuating your form and hugging you in all the right places—it deserves to be your go-to when you need a no-fuss look in no time at all. It works for just about any occasion, from formal winter weddings to low-key vacation days. And, in some cases, you can even wear your wrap dresses entirely open as a coverup for your favorite swimsuit. The options are truly endless, which is precisely why we at Marie Claire are so obsessed with it this season.
Our favorite wrap dress picks include a few classics as well as several reimagined alternatives that will keep you on your toes. Keep scrolling to shop the best options to pick up this season.
This dress comes in a few colors, but this easy-to-wear olive shade works no matter the season. It also would look great with a pair of flats or with a pair of heels, so it'll pull double-duty in your closet.
Every summer wardrobe needs to include a lightweight wrap dress. This one from TOAST is begging to be packed away on a vacation to southern Italy.
If you have a formal wedding coming up, check out this dress from Reformation. Or, if you're a bride on the hunt for a chilled-out ceremony gown, it comes in white.
My black wrap dress has become my summer go-to because It's the best thing to throw on in a hurry. This option from & Other Stories has a forgiving silhouette that never fails to just look good.
I have been eyeing this dress from Ciao Lucia for weeks now. The wrapped skirt detailing feels so classic.
Gingham really comes into its own in the spring and summer months. This dress from Lisa Says Gah! is my personal favorite one that I've seen so far this year.
The subtle print on this dress from ELOQUII makes it work for formal or casual occasions this summer. Plus, that color is to die for!
GANNI rules the roost when it comes to perfect mini dresses with playful details. This one comes in a statement-making print and includes a slightly puffed sleeve and tiny ruffles for a fashionable touch.
This dress from Fame and Partners is completely customizable. You can decide your preferred color, fabric type, and the design of the top. Consider it your chance to make your perfect frock.
This dress from Anthropologie is so romantic, from the silky fabric to the delicate ruffles.
-
Taylor and Travis Debut Hers-and-His Stanely Cup SweatsuitsThe couple made a surprise appearance for Game 4 of the championship.
-
Confirmed: Dua Lipa's Diamond Ring Is of the Engagement VarietyIt has a romantic backstory, too.
-
Every Stylish Woman I Know Is Obsessed with this Expensive-Looking Nail Polish Shade24 luxe options that work with every skin tone.
-
Fashion's Embroidery Renaissance Is Stitching Fresh Life Into a Centuries-Old Art FormTracing the gilded thread from ancient Egypt and Tudor courts to the Spring ’25 runways.
-
Pucci Prints Are Back—And the Best Ones Are Already in Your Mom’s ClosetThe best ones are already in your mom's closet.
-
26 New J.Crew Arrivals I Predict Everyone Will Be Wearing on Their Summer VacationsConsider my dream vacation wardrobe sorted.
-
The Secret to My Anti-Basic Summer Outfits? These Elevated Neckline Tops From H&M and Zara28 under-$50 picks from H&M and Zara to instantly upgrade your look.
-
Summer's Gingham Dress Trend Is Selling Out Everywhere—But I Found 31 Cute Styles Still In StockShop the playful print that's on every NYC block.
-
Miley Cyrus's Naked Schiaparelli Net Dress Is Dripping With Crystal Water DropsThe singer plucked the nude haute couture outfit straight from the runway.
-
Jennifer Lawrence Doubles Up on Controversial Summer Trends in Jorts and The Row Flip-FlopsShe also played into 2025's sardine fashion trend in an unexpected way.
-
Your Summer Wardrobe Needs a Wake-Up Call—Swap in These Unexpected TrendsBench the obvious in favor of these curveball styles.
