How to recognise it
It has no ease: the stretch fabric clings everywhere. It is usually short or knee length, sleeveless or long-sleeved, with a round, square or V neckline.
Where it comes from
Azzedine Alaïa made clinging dresses famous in the 1980s, and in 1989 Hervé Léger created the bandage dress from elastic strips. The name comes from "body conscious".
Who and when it suits
It is a party and evening dress. Because it is striking on its own, it needs simple accessories and classic shoes. By day it can be worn with an oversized blazer or jumper.
Variations and look-alikes
It comes sleeveless, long-sleeved, one-shoulder or off-the-shoulder, mini, knee or midi. The bandage version is made of separate elastic strips, the ribbed version of thick knit. It differs from a sheath in being stretchy, and from a sweater dress in fitting completely. A darker, matt fabric looks smarter than a shiny one, and a midi length is the easiest version to wear by day.
How to style it
- Choose a thicker, dense fabric: it sits more smoothly.
- An oversized blazer makes it everyday wear.
- Seamless underwear is a must.
Similar styles
Frequently asked
01What does bodycon mean?
It is short for "body conscious": a dress that hugs the body.
02Is a bodycon dress office-appropriate?
Usually not. A sheath dress, shaped by tailoring rather than stretch, works better at the office.