This summer I've spotted an elegant dress trend quietly float to the surface amongst fashion crowds. Offering a fresh silhouette and a romantic mood in ways that few other trends do, the basque waist dress trend has been sweeping Europe this season.
With drop silhouette that features a "V" cut construction and hugs the waist in a similar style to that of a corset, the dress trend picks up on a classic design that was originally popularised during the Victorian era. With a lingerie-inspired undertone, the rising dress trend taps into the overarching underwear-as-outerwear theme we've seen in the form of the boxer shorts and bloomer shorts trends this summer.
A favourite on Europe's streets, I've seen the pretty dress trend styled with strappy sandals, pointed-toe heels and pretty mary janes in Paris, Rome and London. With an hourglass shape, the basque dress trend presents a fresh retort to the high-waisted and smock dresses that have dominated the rails for so long.
Available in a broad range cuts including trending halter-neck designs and spaghetti strap styles, as well as in a variety of colours including fresh whites and rich chocolate browns, the rising trend is gearing up to take over this summer.
From Reformation's milkmaid-inspired dress and Free People's impressive array of minis and maxis to Tove's vivid pink iteration, read on to discover our edit of the best basque waist dresses below.
SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST BASQUE WAIST DRESSES:
This gorgeous dress also comes in a fabulous pink hue.
This pretty summer dress also comes in six other colours and prints.
Shop this whilst it's on sale.
Style with a denim layer for an elevated take on the double denim trend.
This has just shot up to the top of my wish list.
A pretty white dress is a summer non-negotiable.
This light beige shade is so easy to slip into a capsule wardrobe.
Style with mary jeans or wear with a strappy sandal.
-
From Engagement to Holiday Parties, My Closet Is in Need of Some Fancy Dresses—32 Chic Options I'm EyeingHere are the standouts.
-
I'm a Bridal Stylist—These Are the Best Fall Wedding Guest Dresses Under $500The couple is sure to approve.
-
It's Boho Chic on a Budget—29 Gorgeous Free People Sale Finds I'm Absolutely LovingUp to 70% off!
-
Fine, I Won’t Gatekeep—These 27 Abercrombie Finds Are Too Chic to Miss (and They're All On Sale)I can't decide which fall pick is my favorite.
-
I'm a Senior Shopping Editor—Here Are 30 Fall Finds That I'm Hands Down Most Excited About Right NowGet ready to answer, "Where'd you get that?"
-
Sure, Trousers Are a Fall Staple, But IMO, Dresses Are So Much Better—33 Gorgeous Styles From Mango, Reformation, and AnthropologieAn underrated essential.
-
Hold the Sandals—This Is the Shoe Trend to Wear With Dresses in SeptemberAs seen on Alexa Chung.
-
The Pretty Dress Trend Everyone Is Skipping Jeans and Trousers ForNo really.
