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The Return of the Bandage Dress
The Return of the Bandage Dress
If you're in the market for a dress that will hug your curves and give you the look of a mermaid, a bandage dress might be the perfect fit. These form-fitting dresses are woven with thin strips of fabric, which resemble a bandage and give the style its name. They're often made from stretchy, shapewear-like materials and feel like a second skin, giving you that "oh so sexy" look that's sure to get compliments.
The bandage dress is currently regaining popularity thanks to a number of factors, including the return to nightlife as people begin venturing out again after being vaccinated and a general desire to rediscover '00s fashion. Fashion psychologist Dawnn Karen tells Refinery29 that the resurgence is also likely due to a resurgence of Herve Leger, the designer who pioneered the body-hugging dresses, and the fact that Gen Zers on TikTok are discovering the brand.
A good-quality bandage dress should be made from a blend of rayon, nylon, and spandex. The fabric is silk-like and should have a subtle sheen. A high-quality dress will also be sturdy enough to double as shapewear and should weigh close to 2 lbs for a standard short sleeve or sleeveless fit. Dresses that are cheaply made from polyester will feel lightweight and not hold their shape as well as a quality one.
While the bandage dress first hit the runway in 1989, it didn't gain mainstream fame until the '00s, when supermodels like Cindy Crawford and Lindsay Lohan wore them on the red carpet or out to clubs. In 1998, Herve Peugnet's label was bought by BCBG Max Azria and the bandage dress became a staple in many women's wardrobes.
Today, celebrities from Khloe Kardashian to Victoria Beckham are sporting tight versions of the dress, making it even more appealing. And while new Herve Leger creative director Christian Juul Nielsen wants to make the label known for more than just its signature form-fitting dresses—he designed flared yoga pants, bralettes, and bike shorts for his resort '22 collection—it may be difficult to get rid of the frocks that gave the label its name in the first place.
How Much Should I Pay for a Bandage Dress?
There are lots of places to shop for a bandage dress online, from upscale designer stores to budget-friendly bargain brands. It's important to keep in mind that a dress is only as good as the material and construction, which means you need to compare prices to ensure you're getting a high-quality piece.
A high-quality dress should be able to withstand lots of wear and tear, so choose one that's made from durable fabric with reinforced seams. A sleeveless or sleeveless dress should also have a smooth lining, as it will protect the skin from irritation.
When shopping for a bandage dress, pay attention to the size chart. Most retailers should provide a standard range of sizes, but not all do so consistently. Ask retailers if they're consistent with their published sizes and check reviews to see how accurate the sizing is. Some designers only carry a limited range of sizes while others may not cater to the plus-size market at all.
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