If 2023 has taught me anything thus far, it's to never say never. At the start of the year, I suddenly came around to the idea of wearing voluminous full skirts, something I would have never been caught dead in before. Now that summer dressing is on my mind, there's another surprising style bubbling up, and it's making me question everything I thought I knew. All of a sudden, I'm seeing fit-and-flare dresses start to trend, and for once, I'm not opposed to the idea of wearing one. In fact, I've seen so many chic options that I've officially removed them from the list of things that are banned from my closet.
I'll admit it—I was once a hater of fit-and-flare dresses. The fitted waist and full skirt just felt too sweet for my personal style, yet here I am, writing my apology letter to the style. If you're wondering, "But why now?" the answer has to do with the new wave of fit-and-flare dresses I'm noticing. Instead of having volume on both the top and bottom, balanced only by a nipped-in waist, the styles on deck for 2023 offer a refined update with a completely fitted bodice and full skirt. Some of the standout dresses even qualify as drop-waist styles, another current favorite of mine. In other words, the styles you're about to see are streamlined, minimal, and very chic.
Ahead, scroll through to shop the best fit-and-flare dresses of summer 2023 and glean some outfit inspiration along the way.
There's a reason Who What Wear readers go crazy for this pick. It's simple and chic, and the price is right.
This one is already a strong contender for summer's best Reformation dress. I've seen it on multiple people, and everyone looks so good wearing it.
Of course, if you're more into a mini hemline, the brand was smart enough to make another version.
I haven't stopped thinking about this perfect drop-waist dress since I first laid eyes on it while scrolling through Shopbop, and I think it's finally time I make it mine.
Abercrombie certainly knows a thing or two about viral drop-waist dresses.
The subtle V-shaped waist lends a cool, forward feel here.
Dresses from this brand tend to sell out at the speed of light, so I have high hopes for this refined pick.
This layered look is everything.
I'm shocked this is only $50 because, quite frankly, I'd dish out at least triple that for it.
If I'm being honest, I think about this dress at least once a day.
So easy to wear.
The kind of piece that is its own outfit.
I just know this smocked situation is next-level comfortable.
An unreal dress from the buzziest collab of the summer.
For all your Y2K wardrobe needs.
The seaming on this is just so pretty.
My only dilemma is choosing between the cream or black. I just may have to get both.
I can already hear the compliments you'll get in this puff-sleeve pick.
It's screaming "pack me for vacation."
Emerging London-based label Marlies Grace has my idea of perfection.
I wouldn't be shocked if multiple It girls were wearing this printed piece in a month.
The base to so many chic summer outfits.
To wear with sneakers, flat sandals, and heels alike.
Hello, pretty hue.
Staud always gets it.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
