In Praise of the Wrap Dress

Why we love this flattering and versatile style

While Hope & Ivy is known for its beautiful hand-painted prints and intricate embroideries, there’s one silhouette that we keep returning to… the wrap dress!

Loved by our loyal customers season after season, our effortlessly elegant wrap dresses are now one of our style signatures and a must-have in every well-furnished wardrobe. But to understand what makes fashion's hardest-working dress so adored, we first need to delve into its history.

The History of the Wrap Dress

Did you know that 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of the wrap dress? The flattering style we know and love was originally created by iconic New York designer Diane Von Furstenberg in 1974. Inspired by ballerinas’ warm-up gear, DVF (as she is often known) took the shape of the crossover ballet cardigan and elongated it into an easy dress. Ever the businesswoman, Furstenberg modelled the style in the marketing campaign alongside the slogan “Feel like a woman, wear a dress.”

Flattering and Empowering

The wrap dress was initially designed to give women confidence in their femininity, framing curves in a way no other shape can. Alluring without being revealing, they hug in all the right places while skimming over any areas you’re not too fond of, then cinch at the waist to create an hourglass silhouette. This proportion-balancing dress is magic for every body type and, best of all, they’re bra-friendly too!

There’s SO Many Styles!

With different fabrications, sleeve styles and skirt lengths, there’s a perfect wrap dress out there for everyone. Different materials dictate whether the piece feels more formal or casual, so a floaty chiffon style will channel an elevated elegance. Midi-length pieces are endlessly versatile, while floor-sweeping maxi-length styles feel more dramatic – perfect for holidays and evening events when you want your outfit to make an impact. We also love how long sleeves exude a demure air, while ruffled sleeves add a feminine flair.

Versatile for Any Occasion

Our absolute favourite thing about wrap dresses is how they can be dressed up or down. Day to night, work to cocktails – a wrap dress can carry you through every occasion in style. Try dressing yours down with a denim jacket and boots for a casual lunch with friends, then dress it up with heels and a blazer for an evening out. They also work in every season, looking beautiful with bare legs in the warmer months, then pairing well with sheer or opaque tights as the days get cooler. You can even style your wrap dress as a swim cover-up on the beach!

A Timeless Wardrobe Icon

Having spent 50 years in the style spotlight, it’s safe to say that wrap dresses are not just a trend! They are very much regarded as an iconic wardrobe staple that every woman should own, much like the classic trench coat, the perfect white tee, an LBD or a great pair of jeans. We love how they combine beauty and practicality, can be worn all year round, dressed up or down and for any occasion. And, thanks to the adjustable wrap ties, this truly timeless piece always ensures a comfortable fit!

At Hope & Ivy, we believe that the wrap dress is a fashion-savvy investment that never goes out of style. Effortlessly combining comfort and elegance, it’s no wonder we revisit them season after season. Take a look at our latest wrap styles here.

We’re certain that once you find the style and length that suits you, you’ll keep coming back to wear yours on rotation, too!