A Cut Above: 42 Party Dresses With The Most Playful Cut-Outs

This season’s erogenous zone of choice? The waist. Cut-outs that frame your waistline can be found on almost any dress style imaginable right now, with everything from bodycon mini dresses to sleek cocktail dresses and knit midi dresses in on the action. An asymmetric cutaway brings visual interest to an otherwise classic silhouette, while circular cut-outs with drawstring ties or contrast trims are having a major style moment, with labels like AERE, Dazie and Lover all offering their take on the trend.

Whether your style mantra skews more demure or daring, there’s no denying the allure of a perfectly-placed decolletage cut-out. This season, we’re seeing teardrop and elongated shapes adorning the natural lines of the shoulder, collar and yoke. We love the way these cut-outs can bring a little lightness to longer dresses by drawing the eye up. Why not opt for a cut-out formal or cocktail dress to make an on-trend impression at your next event?    

An open back is the perfect way to bring an unexpected twist to an otherwise timeless party dress. This is a trend that speaks to every style profile, with dresses sporting everything from subtle cut-outs at the nape to bare skin from shoulder all the way to small of the back. Whether you prefer breezy linen for a sunset soiree, a low-back slip dress for occasion-ready glam or a body-con knit dress for cooler nights out, an open back is a playful way to elevate your party-season style.

Nothing channels a playful party mood quite like a bare midriff. A nostalgic trend made new, this season’s midriff cut-outs are the perfect way to break up an embellished or printed dress. Keep it classic with a keyhole cut-out just beneath the bust, or up the ante with an open torso à la Bec + Bridge, Calli or Lioness. Keep shoes and accessories simple to keep the focus firmly on your statement dress.