As soon as our dress sleeves started puffing up, other parts of our frocks started disappearing. Cut-out fashion has become one of the other major trends of 2021, with peak-a-boo slashes strategically removed from the front, sides, or backs to reveal considerably more skin. We wouldn’t say cut-out dresses rank too high on the modesty spectrum, but hey, that’s exactly the point: With the right cut, even a full-coverage gown can suddenly feel a bit more sultry. But, not all cut-out dresses are the same; depending on the size and placement of the cut, a dress can be demure enough for a daytime event or bold enough for a night of dancing.
You’ll surely recognize a similar theme in most of the silhouettes, such as the triangular slices on the waist, the clavicle-area slashes, or the scooped open back, but there are subtly sweet cut-outs to experiment with too. Take, for instance, a series of cut-outs that shimmy down the spine or an upper torso keyhole. Cut-outs come in all forms and sizes — all you have to do is find one that works with your comfort level. Ahead, we categorized an assortment of cut-out dresses by length, occasion, fit, and peek-a-boo location.
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Mini Cut-Out Dresses
These cut-out dresses are for those who dare to bear.
Free People Cross Of Sunlight Mini, $, available at Free People
Farm Rio pink cocoa forest mini dress, $, available at Farm Rio
H&M Chiffon Cut-out Dress, $, available at H&M
Midi Cut-Out Dresses
The skirts are a little longer, but the cut-outs are still bold as ever.
Zara CUT OUT MIDI DRESS, $, available at Zara
Mango Vent cotton dress, $, available at Mango
Abercrombie and Fitch Knot-Front Cutout Midi Dress, $, available at Abercrombie and Fitch
Maxi Cut-Out Dresses
Want a cut-out dress that will best transition for fall? A maxi will do.
Homelex V-Neck Maxi Knit Cutout Dress, $, available at Amazon
PatBo Blossom Cut-Out Beach Dress, $, available at Free People
Raey Elasticated cut-out abstract-print cotton dress, $, available at MatchesFashion
Bodycon Cut-Out Dresses
For skin-hugging cut-outs (and possibly some unique tan lines), shop for a fitted bodycon style.
Bec and Bridge PHOENIX MIDI DRESS, $, available at Bec and Bridge
ASOS DESIGN textured mesh cut out ruched maxi body-conscious dress, $, available at ASOS
Forever21 Cutout Self-Tie Bodycon Dress, $, available at Forever21
Fancy Cut-Out Dresses
Yes, you CAN wear cut-outs to galas, balls, and black-tie weddings. Pair it with a clutch and statement earrings for a simple but jaw-dropping look.
Staud Katharine Cut-Out Sequin Dress, $, available at Intermix
Bronx and Banco Hanna Gown, $, available at Revolve
Nanushka Nala Cut-Out Midi Dress, $, available at Intermix
Casual Cut-Out Dresses
If you’re a first-timer with cut-outs, the casual dress route is a fab place to start your journey. All you need is your favorite pair of canvas sneakers or summer sandals and you’re out the door.
Abercrombie and Fitch Puff Sleeve Cutout Linen Mini Dress, $, available at Abercrombie and Fitch
Lulus Joyful Red Orange Multi Stripe Tie-Back Mini Dress, $, available at Lulus
SheIn Gingham Puff Sleeve Ruched Knot Cut-out Dress, $, available at SheIn
Turtleneck Cut-Out Dresses
Get a head start on fall shopping with knitted cut-out dresses with cozy high necks and long sleeves. The turtleneck also provides a little extra coverage to balance out the cutouts.
Velvet Torch Mock Neck Cut Out Rib Dress, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Missguided green rib cut out turtle neck mini dress, $, available at Missguided
A.W.A.K.E MODE Turtleneck Dress With Cut Out, $, available at Shopbop
Frontside Cut-Out Dresses
For a subtler skin-revealing moment, these keyhole cut-outs won’t steer you wrong.
H&M Linen-blend Dress, $, available at H&M
Nasty Gal Cut Out Detail Floral Mini Tea Dress, $, available at Nasty Gal
Eloquii Tie Front Full Skirted Maxi Dress, $, available at Eloquii
Open-Back Cut-Out Dresses
These cut-out dresses are for taking a spin in — the front may appear basic, but it’s the back that truly carries the look.
offrandes Cut Out Back Mini Dress, $, available at Etsy
Maeve Knit Cut-Out Mini Dress, $, available at Anthropologie
Reformation Juno Dress, $, available at Reformation
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