There's something so subtly alluring about an unexpected cut out, a pop of a shoulder, a peek-a-boo hip, the reveal of the upper thigh. It's a trend that feels versatile, offering us the ability to select what parts of ourselves we wish to admit to others, and clothe those we wish to conceal. In a time where inclusivity in fashion still feels like it has so much further to go, it's always exciting to see trends pop up that feel reachable, wearable and comfortable for more than just one body type.
Cut outs have dominated runways and internet trend cycles, seemingly re-popularised as part of the early 90s and Y2K fashion revivals. However, the humble cut-out dress seems to be perennial, simply reinventing itself season after season, in a multitude of silhouettes, hues and textiles. Whether it's the sophisticated cut-outs of Tom Ford's iconic stint at Gucci, or the glamorous, head-turning numbers worn on shows like Euphoria, the cut-out dress is here to stay, reinvented time and time again.
So to jump on the bandwagon and achieve that perfect subtle reveal, here are some of our favourite cut-out dresses on the market right now.
1. ST. AGNI Urbain Midi Dress
This St. Agni number is a simple, sophisticated 'little black dress' with a playful twist. The side panel cut-outs offer a subtle reveal of the skin, but throw a jacket on over the top, and none will be the wiser.
2. CULT GAIA Liv Dress
Cult Gaia are simply a gold mine of whimsical cut-out dresses in jewel-tone hues and feminine silhouettes. The Liv Dress is a summer's dream, perfect for a pool-side rendezvous.
3. MIRROR PALAIS The Sunset Gown
This sultry sunset number is just made for a holiday. The delicate key-hole design and high-slit leg are sultry additions to this daring sheer gown.
4. KSUBI Charmed Keyhole Dress in Black
Live out your Maddy Perez fashion fantasy – yes, we all remember that little black dress and headband moment from the second season opener – in this Ksubi keyhole dress. The timeless shape and colour make it a versatile investment, perfect for layering, and easy to dress up or down.
5. THIRD FORM Green Liaison Maxi Dress
Beachwear is no exception to the trend of cut-out dresses, and this gorgeous green strapless number from Third Form is a low-key way to achieve that effortlessly put-together feel for your next seaside trip.
6. SIR THE LABEL Eva Knit Midi Dress
Sir The Label has jumped onto the cut-out trend big time, and this reversible, delicate knit midi dress is an understated, versatile piece to add to your wardrobe. Wear it with the cut-out at the front, and layer over a corset. Or wear it with the cut-out at the back for a sultry backless look.
7. MAGALI PASCAL Luna Dress
The cut-out dress doesn't have to be quite so revealing – take this Magali Pascal dress with its subtle, lace cut-out hem. It's a great in-between for those who want to show a little skin and jump aboard the trend, but who aren't interested in taking things to that next level.
8. CHRISTOPHER ESBER Frequency Crystal Stone Multi Gather Mini Dress
Black fabric stretched and enclosed with glittering stones, Christopher Esber has a daring and intricate take on the humble cut-out black dress. It's a head-turner, for those who don't wish to be forgotten.
9. JACQUEMUS La Robe Sierra
Simple is sometimes better when it comes to cut-outs, and Jacquemus's La Robe Sierra is a perfect example of how to make those little details count. It's available in an array of neutral hues, but why not opt for a daring, hot pink?
10. COPERNI Asymetric Mesh Draped Dress
You'll feel wrapped up like a present in this Coperni mesh dress, with peek-a-boo cut outs and a gorgeous halter silhouette. The sarong-like feel and turquoise hue give this number a holiday feel, perfect for dancing those hot summer nights away.
11. GUCCI Black Cut Out Maxi
For a more classic feel, Gucci's cut-out black maxi is a welcome reprieve. Sophistication and class at its pique, this is an investment that will perform admirably in your cost-per-wear analysis.
12. PALOMA WOOL Alpina-Grey Asymetric Cupro Two-Piece Dress
Innovation and quirk are at the heart of Spanish label Paloma Wool. This cotton cut-out dress is actually a two-piece ensemble, able to be worn how you like with the simple slip of an arm loop. If comfort is at the forefront of your mind on a night out, this could be the answer.
13. ST. AGNI Link Detail Dress
Another St. Agni number we just simply couldn't go past. Another simple-from-the-front dress, this time embellished with a daring side slit, bound together by gorgeous tortoiseshell loops. This cut-out moment is a sultry way to spice up an otherwise simple, sophisticated look.
7. SIR THE LABEL Xanita Frill Midi Dress
We couldn't go past this Sir The Label dress either – a stunning floral ensemble that wouldn't look out of place at your next birthday dinner or strolling through the gardens of Versaille. It's flouncy, feminine and the plunging neckline and cut-out back give this dress a more youthful, modern touch.
