When we think wrap dresses, we think of Diane von Furstenberg. Though she might not be a princess anymore, DVF is literally the queen of wrap dresses, having built her fashion kingdom on the flattering style.
Furstenberg popularized the style in the 1970s, opting for the style as it was easy to make. And clearly, the women of her time loved the look; DVF sold over a million dresses over the course of a decade and jumpstarted her long career in fashion.
Crediting Diane Von Furstenberg with the invention of wrap dresses is a common misconception. She perfected them, modernized them, and secured their place in contemporary fashion didn’t invent wrap dresses. The style dates back to the 1930s, with the notorious Elsa Schiaparelli.
After she met Paul Poiret in the 30s, Schiaparelli decided to try her hand in fashion, despite the fact that she “decidedly did not know anything about dressmaking,” as Meryle Secrest reported in Elsa Schiaparelli: A Biography. “She felt that clothes had to be architectural: that the body must never be forgotten and it must be used as a frame in a building.” Therefore, the wrap dress was key for Schiap. All she had to do was wrap the material around the body, tie the garment at the waist et voila—the wrap dress has been born.
Though wrap dresses are a uniform style, all with a V-neck, wrapped-over bodice, and accented waist, there is actually quite a lot of versatility with wraps. The most exciting factor with orderly pieces is how each designer can revamp the look, make it entirely its own. No two wrap dresses are the same.
Wrap dresses are the best dress style for fall. For one thing, the wrap effect can feel so cozy, perfect for cooler days. The accentuated waist and deep neckline give an added sense of femininity, just what you need to complement a simple pair of booties. Plus, the classic, historic nature of the style provides just the right amount of sophistication to any way you wear your wrap.
The best ways to wear wrap dresses in the fall is to go for a long-sleeved style to keep your look just as weather-appropriate as it is fashionable.
Which of the many long sleeve wrap dresses is the dress for you? Great question.
Daytime Looks
Eliza J Long Sleeve Floral Wrap Dress
With a classic floral pattern, this dress features a contrasting, modern hem in a second floral pattern. Its cinched waist and deep v-neck make this dress by Eliza J the epitome of the timeless wrap dress. This dress’s swanky exterior makes styling easy. Just pair it with a suede, natural pair of ankle boots and grab a tote bag, and your fall look is complete.
Balmain Long Sleeve Faux Wrap Minidress
Perfect for a contemporary professional look, this wrap-style dress by Balmain features angular shoulders and a classic v-neck. Three gold buttons near the waist ensure an elevated touch. Finish this look with a pair of black tights and black t-strap heels or D’Orsay pumps for the ultimate sartorial touch.
Topshop Plisse Print Wrap Mini Dress
A thin black outline at the neckline and tie-waist adds a modern tough to the dainty and elegant print of this timeless wrap style. Its long sleeves perfectly balance out the mini-dress length of this dress, allowing for the essential fall look. Team this dress with a black pair of Chelsea boots to play up the black contrast effect in the dress.
Parallel Lines Long Sleeve Wrap Dress
Designed in a perfect-for-fall chic burnt orange tone, this classic wrap dress from Parallel Lines is a staple piece to any wardrobe. Its tied waist is done with an elegant, dramatic tie, and its v-neck is the ideal modest length. With long sleeves and a comfortable length, this dress pairs well with either color-matched boots with bare legs or brown boots and cream colored socks.
Evening Looks
Boohoo Velvet Long Sleeve Wrap Dress
The velvet finish and contemporary high-low length to this wrap dress make it a great choice for day-to-night dressing. Its v-neck and cinched wrap dress waist give a timelessly sexy touch, while the long sleeves keep it weather-friendly for fall. Team this look with a pair of pumps and you are all set.
Vince Camuto Long Sleeve Pleated Wrap Dress
Designed with soft pleating details throughout in an elegant and refined black hue, this wrap dress from Vince Camuto is perfect for fall evening events. Its long sleeves and midi length give it a sophisticated vibe. This dress looks best worn alongside low block heels with an ankle strap and a small handbag.
Michelle Mason Long Sleeve Wrap Velvet Dress
Similar to both evening options above, this long wrap dress from Michelle Mason showcases a soft velvet exterior done with soft vertical stripes to give a pleat-like feel. This dress works just as well for pre-holiday evening parties as it does a fall engagement party. Wear this dress with a pair of flats or loafers and an oversized tote bag.
Boohoo Wrap Front Ruffle Long Sleeve Maxi Dress
With an elegantly exaggerated ruffle hem at the sleeves and bottom, this dress features a subtle high exposure at the leg just under the wrapped closure at the waist. Its v-neck gives off another classic wrap dress element, making this Boohoo dress a timeless piece, perfect for fall evenings. Wear this black dress with a kitten heel in any color.
Whistles Maria Dot-Printed Silk Wrap Dress
This vibrant blue tone adds a pop of color to even the gloomiest of autumn mornings. While this dress stays modest in cut, the bright blue base color creates a lively, eye-catching approach. The polka dot detail creates an all-around captivating look that will spice up your usual office or daytime apparel. Pair this dress with block heels and a large tote for a complete look.
