The Rise and Fall of Wrap Dresses: A Fashion Trend Revisited
Once a wardrobe staple, wrap dresses have now found themselves in a more curious category, akin to skinny jeans or ankle booties – items that were once must-haves but are now often overlooked during closet clean-outs. Despite their decline in popularity, wrap dresses are still making waves in unexpected places, such as Ohio thrift stores.
Kathleen Martin, a Columbus resident who creates YouTube videos about thrifting, has noticed a resurgence of wrap dresses in thrift stores, particularly those reminiscent of 2010s business casual attire. She mentioned that sometimes these dresses are mistakenly categorized as robes, a trend that was even endorsed by Vogue during the early months of the pandemic in 2020.
Danielle Vermeer, the CEO of a thrifting app called Teleport, shared her own experience of finding a Diane von Furstenberg wrap dress for a steal at a secondhand store. Despite the decline in popularity of wrap dresses, she was able to consign the dress for a profit, highlighting the enduring appeal of this classic style.
In a post-pandemic world, where workplaces have become more casual and individual style is celebrated, wrap dresses are experiencing a resurgence among those looking to express themselves through fashion. While some may view them as a relic of the past, others, like Vermeer, still appreciate their chic and effortless appeal.
Allison Bornstein, a stylist known for helping people define their personal style, offered insight into why younger generations may be hesitant to embrace wrap dresses. She suggested that the association with the “Girlboss” era of the 2010s, characterized by corporate feminism and ambitious young women, may be a factor in their aversion to the style.
As fashion trends continue to evolve, it seems that wrap dresses are making a comeback, proving that classic styles never truly go out of fashion. Whether you’re a thrifting enthusiast or a fashion-forward individual, it may be time to reconsider the wrap dress and give this timeless piece a second chance in your wardrobe.
