Cut-out dresses are still a major trend as we move into summer 2026. Showing a little more skin than regular styles, they're playful and they keep you cool. But they're not just tiny, barely-there pieces - the cut-out dress comes in many forms, from statement to more subtle.
- The floral editor's pick: Reiss Amaya Cotton Floral-Print Belted Maxi Dress, £270 / $480
- The black editor's pick: Topshop Pinny Dress, £65 / $109
- The white editor's pick: M&S Tie Front Maxi Beach Dress, £58 / $115
- The denim editor's pick: Reformation Manon Denim Midi Dress, £248 / $248
- The designer editor's pick: Zimmermann Wanderlust Cutout Silk-Poplin Dress, £995 / $1,200
Royals & celebrities wearing cut-out dresses
Meghan Markle was pictured looking so elegant in a halterneck cut-out dress by Heidi Merrick at a polo match in Florida. The Ginger Dress has a wrap-around halter top that's finished with a large bow at the back of the neck and creates a cut-out across the midsection. The Duchess accessorised with gold hoops, oversized black sunglasses also by Heidi Merrick, and her trusty nude Aquazzura heels.
© AlamyAlessandra Ambrosio went more daring with her cut-out dress, stepping out in Milan for the spring/summer shows in this white maxi by Sid Neigum. It featured a striking thigh-high split and cut-out detail at the waist.
Most recently Lily Collins wore a cut out dress by Balenciaga to attend PaleyFest LA with the Emily in Paris cast in April 2026.
Angelina Jolie, Dua Lipa and Kendall Jenner have also been seen in stylish cut-out pieces in recent years, as well as multiple fashion week guests.
© Edward BerthelotHow I chose the best cut-out dresses
- Style: From subtle cut-outs in daytime dresses to statement occasionwear, I've found cut-out pieces to suit every event and style.
- New-in: Most of the dresses below have just dropped for the new season, but you'll also find some bestsellers.
- Budget: From £995 at NET-A-PORTER to £29 at H&M, I've included pieces at a range of price points.
The best cut-out dresses for summer 2026
Reiss Amaya Cotton Floral-Print Belted Maxi Dress
Editor's Note:
The Amaya dress from Reiss is cut from pure cotton with subtle stretch and adorned in a delicate floral print. Perfect for any formal event this summer, it features an elegant crossover halterneck, which creates a playful cut-out detail, and a waist belt which falls to a maxi silhouette.
Reformation Manon Denim Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
A denim dress is a spring/summer staple, and this one from Reformation is so chic. From the delicate halter straps to the open back and button-down front, it's timeless and so versatile for the new season.
M&S Tie Front Maxi Beach Dress
Editor's Note:
I love this white maxi from M&S, which features tie-front detail and lace trims with subtle cut-outs. I'd style it with a rattan bag and brown leather slides. It has adjustable straps and is available in three different lengths.
ba&sh Tania Maxi Dress
Editor's Note:
The perfect holiday evening dress if you're heading out somewhere fancy, this ba&sh maxi features a deep V neckline and a waist cut-out with jewel detail. Wear it with matching gold jewellery.
H&M Draped Cut-Out Dress
Editor's Note:
This maxi dress is so Cult Gaia and it's less than £30. Made from a stretch jersey fabric, it comes with cut-out waist detail which creates a flattering gathering and draping effect. Obsessed.
Topshop Pinny Dress
Editor's Note:
Made from 100% cotton, Topshop's lightweight midi is ideal if you love to wear black even in summer. It features cut-out sides and pretty embroidery detail.
LSpace Say When Maxi Dress
Editor's Note:
Zebra print is going nowhere for summer 2026 and LSpace is a Cali brand that specialises in pieces you can wear from the beach to a bar. The Say When maxi is cut with long sleeves and a plunging neckline.
Zimmermann Wanderlust Cutout Silk-Poplin Dress
Editor's Note:
The ultimate luxe day-to-night dress, this floaty Zimmermann maxi is made from a stunning, tactile silk-poplin and can easily be dressed up or down with a change of accessories. It features comfortable shirring through the back and falls to a floaty skirt.
Zara Cut-Out Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
If you're shopping for a fitted style, I love this navy midi dress from Zara. Featuring a cut-out front with metallic hardware, it also comes with delicate adjustable straps with ties and draped side detail.
Sakuranna Naya Dress
Editor's Note:
Sakuranna does beautiful dresses to wear for special occasions and on balmy holiday evenings. The striking Naya dress has a statement waist cut-out, soft draping through the front, an adjustable back, and a high thigh slit.
