How to recognise it
The top is fitted, the waist clearly defined, and the skirt full, with pleats, gathers or a circle cut. From the side the dress looks like a bell. A shorter version is called a skater dress.
Where it comes from
Christian Dior's New Look of 1947 made the silhouette famous: a cinched waist and a full skirt brought femininity back after the war. In the 1950s it was the main dress silhouette.
Who and when it suits
It is cheerful and feminine, right for celebrations, weddings as a guest and garden parties. The defined waist makes it suit many figures.
Variations and look-alikes
It comes with a circle, pleated or gathered skirt, with or without short sleeves, knee or midi length. The short jersey version is called a skater dress, and a dressy taffeta one with a tulle petticoat recalls the 1950s. It differs from an A-line in the fullness of the skirt and from a babydoll in the natural waist.
How to style it
- A thin belt marks the waist even more.
- For a wedding, choose midi length and heeled sandals.
- Every day: trainers and a denim jacket.
Similar styles
Frequently asked
01What is a skater dress?
A shorter, usually jersey fit and flare dress with a circle skirt.
02How is fit and flare different from A-line?
Its skirt is much fuller and flares straight from the waist, while an A-line widens gradually.