How to Tie a Wrap Dress for a Cinched Waist — Plus the One Style I Recommend

Whenever someone asks me for a dress style that defines the waist without feeling restrictive, I almost always recommend wrap dresses. It's one of those timeless silhouettes that flatters nearly every body type, and once you know how to tie a wrap dress correctly, it becomes even more flattering.

My favorite wrap dress is a Floral Print Ruffle Hem Midi — and it just so happens to be on sale for under $30. It's available in several colors, including green, pink, yellow and blue, plus sizes S to 2XL, and eligible orders even come with free shipping. Between the adjustable wrap silhouette, feminine ruffle hem and versatile floral print, it's the kind of dress I'd happily wear everywhere from brunch to weddings.

The floral wrap dress features flutter sleeves and an adjustable waist tie that lets you customize the fit to your body. Below, I demonstrate how to tie a wrap dress the right way.

How to Tie a Wrap Dress: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Find the Hidden Opening

First, open the wrap dress and locate the small opening sewn into one side seam. If you've never worn a wrap dress, it's easy to miss, but this hidden opening is what allows the inside tie to secure the dress before you wrap the outer layer across your body.

Step 2: Thread the Inner Tie Through

Next, I feed the inside tie through the opening and gently pull it until it sits flat against my body. This step helps anchor the wrap dress from the inside, keeping it from shifting while creating a smoother, more secure fit around the waist.

Step 3: Wrap the Dress Across Your Body

Once the inside tie is secure, I pull the outer panel across my body and adjust it until the neckline and waist feel comfortable. I love wrap dresses because they're easy to customize. Simply tighten or loosen the fit depending on how defined you want your waist to look.

Step 4: Tie the Waist Sash

Finally, I wrap the outer sash around my waist and tie it into a simple side bow. I prefer pulling it snug enough to create shape without making the dress feel restrictive. Once it's tied, the silhouette reads elegant and flattering (not to mention, it's ultra-comfy!).

The Finished Look

Once everything is tied together, the difference is immediately noticeable. The waist looks more defined, the neckline sits smoothly and the dress feels secure enough that I don't have to keep adjusting it throughout the day.

If you've been thinking about adding a wrap dress to your wardrobe, this on-sale floral wrap dress is my top pick. Enjoy free shipping on eligible orders!

UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off - Plus Free Shipping

Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer's chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they're gone.

Shop the UsNow Summer Sale -->