We’re Big Fans Of The New Fit & Flare

By Charlie Colville

4 months ago

The chic silhouette taking over the season


This summer has come bearing plenty of new fashion trends – from jelly sandals and triangle scarves to brat green everything. And with sundress season now fully in session, we can finally throw off those jumpers and embrace a one(-layered) hit wonder. And while milkmaid dresses took centre stage earlier this year, a new summery ensemble is now reportedly taking the spotlight. Meet the modern fit and flare dress.

Fit And Flare Dresses Are Having A Moment

Summer wardrobe check. The uniform of the season has finally arrived, and it comes with a drop waist and long skirt. We’re of course talking about the new fit and flare trend, which is tipping all prior expectations of a sundress on its head.

@hiyamaiaj i say this as someone who is fully remote (i might think differently if i went into an office) #OOTD #outfitoftheday #outfitideas #outfitinspo #summeroutfit #dropwaistdress #freepeople #simpleoutfit #midsize #size12to14 #size12outfits #foryou ♬ original sound – Maia

As it’s name suggests, the fit and flare dress offers a tighter fit at the top before flaring out into a fuller skirt. The 2024 take on the trend combines the classic silhouette with a drop or asymmetric waist, as well as the occasional shirred bodice and thick-cut straps. Many designers have also imbued its minimalist shape with more playful details, such as bold colours and patterns, to give the dress a more youthful appearance.

And while the thought of a drop waist dress might seem a little scary – we’ve been married to our high waisted jeans for the better part of a decade, after all – there’s something about the new fit and flare that has our interest piqued. It’s elegant, fun and, with it being a base layer, easy enough to dress up or down depending on the occasion. When we really think about it, it ticks all of our boxes for a reliable summer dress.

@itsemmygirl summer dress szn!!! its finally here. #ootd #outfitoftheday #summerdress #maxidress #dropwaistdress #officeoutfit #fitcheck ♬ original sound – lyrics

This burgeoning streetstyle staple has us dreaming of all kinds of summer events: sunny days in town, decked out in trainers; parties in the garden, sunhat at the ready and feet slipped into sandals; and pub reunions accessorised with gold jewellery and ballet flats. The possibilities? Endless.


The Edit

The Country & Town House Responsible Buyers’ Guide

Woman in white fit and flare dress

Solid & Striped

The Nicole Dress (Multiple Sizes), rent from £48.67

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Woman in purple fit and flare dress

REISS

Florene Dress (Size UK 8), rent from £54.80

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Woman in brown summer gown

Reformation

Sariah Dress, £298

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Woman in yellow dress

Damson Madder

Tish Poplin Midi Dress, £125

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Woman in bandana, sunglasses and white smock

Free People

Easy Does It Maxi, £78

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Woman in blue fit and flare dress

Faithfull The Brand

Matera Cotton Midi Dress, £190

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Woman in olive dress

ME+EM

Mixed Media Maxi Dress, £195

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Woman in beige gown

TOVE Studio

Mae Dress, £282

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Woman in red fit and flare dress

GANNI

Red Sheer Midi Strap Smock Dress, £285

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Woman in pink fit and flare dress

M&S

Cotton Blend Midi Drop Waist Dress, £35

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Featured image: Faithfull The Label