Cut-out dresses are set to be a major trend for summer 2026, offering a playful and cooling option that ranges from subtle to striking. The style has been embraced by celebrities including Meghan Markle, Alessandra Ambrosio, and Lily Collins.
Meghan Markle was spotted at a polo match in Florida wearing a Heidi Merrick halterneck cut-out dress, known as the Ginger Dress, which features a wrap-around halter top with a large bow at the back and a cut-out across the midsection. She paired it with gold hoops, oversized black sunglasses, and nude Aquazzura heels.
Alessandra Ambrosio opted for a more daring look in Milan during the spring/summer shows, wearing a white maxi dress by Sid Neigum with a thigh-high split and cut-out detail at the waist. Lily Collins also joined the trend, wearing a Balenciaga cut-out dress to PaleyFest LA in April 2026.
Other celebrities such as Angelina Jolie, Dua Lipa, and Kendall Jenner have been seen in cut-out styles in recent years. High street options include the Amaya dress from Reiss, a denim dress from Reformation, and a white maxi from M&S with tie-front detail and lace trims.
For those seeking more affordable options, a Cult Gaia-inspired maxi dress under £30 is available, as well as a black midi from Topshop with cut-out sides and embroidery. The trend also extends to prints, with zebra print maxi dresses from LSpace and silk-poplin styles from Zimmermann.
