36 Drop-Waist Dresses for Spring and Summer 2025
Sure, a classic LBD or office-appropriate sheath is useful to have on hand, but if you’re looking to add variety to your closet this spring, a splashier silhouette will make a bigger impact. Enter: the drop-waist dress. The heroic design is poised to take over this season, thanks to its ability to elongate the frame and universally-flattering fit. Not to mention, it comes in a ton of versatile finishes perfect for whatever plans end up on your agenda.
For the world traveler, the season’s assortment of leafy prints and throw-on-and-go styles are ideal for far-flung locales. If you have a spring wedding on the social calendar, there are numerous drop-waist styles crafted in longer lengths and ultra-luxe materials, like satin and crêpe. And for days when you can’t decide what to wear, an effortless cotton dress—whose longer waist gives it an edge—will surely save the day.
Ahead, shop our guide to the season’s most flattering (and affordable) drop-waist dresses from the likes of Proenza Schouler, Staud, Simkhai, and more.
Sleek Strapless
As the temperatures heat up, you’ll want to have at least one strapless dress in your closet. Simpler options, like this tomato-red version, are great for weekend errands paired with flats; but if you prefer something elevated, pick out a piece with interesting detailing, like mixed materials or a ruched bodice.
Zara Combination Strapless Midi Dress
Susana Monaco Poplin Drop Waist Tube Dress
Alice And Olivia Strapless Drop Waist Dress
Cue the Colorblock
Accentuate an already dramatic style by choosing a color-blocked frock. The beauty of this elongated silhouette is that it doesn’t cut off at the waistline; the dueling shades are just another layer of visual interest.
Anna Quan Stefania Colorblock Maxi Dress
By Malene Birger By Malene Birger Marciella Dress
Solid & Striped The Halter Soglio Dress
SWF Drop Waist Dress
Now 47% Off
Sunny Citrons
’Tis the season for pretty pastels in all of their forms—but if you really want to stay on-trend, go for butter yellow. The pale shade is ideal for this time of year, especially in the form of a fluttery A-line skirt. Balance out the lightness of these drop-waist dresses with leather fisherman shoes or a chunky woven cord sandal.
Proenza Schouler Kendall Midi Dress
Lucy Paris Hazel Smocked Waist Dress
Now 25% Off
Simkhai Buttercream Allana Maxi Dress
Lovely LWD
Spring is here, which means it’s time to pull those little white dresses out of hibernation. Drop-waist styles in crisp cotton poplin and linens are sure to be your go-to picks for the sunny months ahead when you’ll crave something that’ll keep you cool.
The Lulo Project Bahia Dress
CAROLINE CONSTAS Augusta Drop Waist Maxi Dress
J.Crew Drop-Waist Mixy Dress
Now 24% Off
A.L.C. Brooke Long-Sleeve Drop-Waist Mini Dress
Spring Prints
From micro florals to cheerful polka dots, spring’s rotation of refreshing prints is always a welcome addition to our wardrobes. We especially love these drop-waist styles that would look oh-so-charming worn to a weekend picnic.
Damson Madder Faith Dress
For Love & Lemons Livia Linen Midi Dress
Abercrombie Drop-Waist Midi Dress
Soirée Essentials
Whether it’s a wedding or a work event, a full-length dress that’s suitable for dressier moments should always be hanging in your closet. Choose a satin pistachio green maxi or a ballet pink one with a structured bodice to pay homage to the unofficial palette of the season.
A.L.C. Harper Drop-Waist Maxi Dress
Vacation-Ready
For those with travel plans, a lightweight and versatile dress is a packing essential. Luckily, this trend is equally suited for poolside lounging as it is for fancier dinners—with the right edit of accessories, of course. Just swap your strappy sandals for a sleeker mule to instantly dress up any one of these tropical-inspired dresses.
Bardot Marabella Halter Dress
Farm Rio Delicate Tapestry Midi Dress
Kingsley Embroidered Drop-Waist Tank Dress
Marimekko Taide Cactis Drop Waist Dress
Mellow Hues
Pale blue hues reign supreme with this silhouette (and are especially great when done in breezy linen to channel a seaside feel). Pair yours with your favorite chocolate brown accessories for high-contrast perfection.
ASTR The Label Thierry Dress
MM Ettore Drop Waist Maxi Dress
ESSE STUDIOS Illi Strapless Dress
Gap Linen-Blend Drop-Waist Maxi Dress
Now 20% Off
Robust Red
Fact: There are few more powerful style staples than a bright red dress. And with the color proving to be a dominant trend for the spring and summer seasons ahead, investing in one with a drop waist feels like an easy choice, no? Go with a floor-grazing version at your next formal affair for maximum impact.
Shoshanna Grayson Drop-Waist SleevelessDress
Free People Sterling Maxi