Backless Halter Neck Gathered Waist Dress

A halter neck and an open back are a pairing that has never needed much explaining. The neckline pulls everything upward and leaves the shoulders and upper back clear, and the gathered waist stops the whole thing from hanging straight by pulling the fabric in at the narrowest point. It is a simple dress that behaves like a more complicated one.

The fabric is 100% polyester, the supplier lists the stretch as no stretch, and the body is not lined. That combination tells you what to expect. It holds its shape rather than clinging, it relies on the gathering at the waist for shape rather than on give, and being unlined keeps it light and breathable in heat while also making it airy rather than substantial.

Be clear about the length before you order. It measures 30.3 inches at size S and 31.5 inches at XL, so this is a short dress that sits well above the knee on most frames rather than anything longer. Waist runs from 30.7 inches at S out to 37 inches at XL. The two colourways pull in different directions, which is useful. Pastel yellow is soft, sunny and squarely a summer daytime choice, while chocolate is deeper and quieter and moves easily into an evening. Flat sandals and a straw bag for the day, a heeled sandal and gold jewellery after dark. Because the back is open, skip layering over the top and let it be what it is. Sizes run S through XL.

Why you will love it

• Backless design
• Halter neckline
• Gathered waist
• Short length from 30.3 to 31.5 inches
• Stretch: no stretch
• Body is not lined
• Material composition: 100% polyester
• Offered in Pastel Yellow and Chocolate, sizes S to XL

Care

• Machine wash cold. Tumble dry low.