This Abercrombie & Fitch drop-waist maxi dress is comfortable, breathable, flattering and even has pockets
Finding the perfect wedding guest dress can feel impossible. Many of us are searching for something that feels special enough for the occasion, comfortable enough to wear all day, flattering in photos, and ideally something we will actually wear again rather than leaving it at the back of the wardrobe.
After far too much scrolling, I had ordered approximately half a dozen potential options, but truth be told, when I tried on this Abercrombie and Fitch Emerson Drop-Waist Maxi Dress, I called off the search and returned the remaining unopened frocks. Never have I felt so great in a piece of clothing – and it’s easy to see why so many other fashion enthusiasts have chosen it for their occasions in recent months, too.
I wore the dress to a wedding at the weekend, and it ticked every single box. The soft yellow floral print I chose is almost sold out now, but the style also comes in black, white, green, polka dot and another blue floral option.
The Emerson Drop-Waist Maxi Dress comes in sizes XXS to XL, with petite, regular and long lengths available too. I would say the size guide is pretty accurate, with XXS fitting like a UK 4-6, XS around an 8, and so on. I am usually a size 10, but as a size small was unavailable, I took a chance on the XS, and it fit perfectly. There is shirring to the back of the dress, which gives a little flexibility and makes the fit feel really comfortable rather than restrictive.
Style-wise, it has everything I look for in a wedding guest dress, from flattering puff sleeves and a square neckline, to beautiful ruching along the bodice and a dropped waist silhouette that feels really elegant and on trend.
The A&F Emerson Drop-Waist Maxi Dress
£100
Abercrombie and Fitch
Buy here
Flattering short-sleeve maxi dress in a classic poplin fabric, featuring on-trend puff sleeves, a dropped waist, flattering ruching details along the bodice, back smocking and a square neckline.
The fabric is a linen and cotton blend (53% linen, 47% cotton), which made it ideal for warmer weather. It was sunny all day and not once did I feel too warm, despite the fabric being quite substantial, it still felt light, breathable and the structure of the fabric made it much more expensive-looking.
It did arrive slightly creased, which is fairly standard with linen blends, but it steamed out quickly and easily and stayed smooth all day. The other downside is that the zip can be a little stiff to get over the waist seam, so wearers may need a hand doing it up.
Another highlight of the dress was the side seam pockets, which my phone fitted inside easily without ruining the shape of the dress, which meant I didn’t have to carry my bag around all day.
At full price, the dress is £100, although I managed to get mine on sale for £54.99. While some of the remaining colours are still full price, I genuinely think it is worth it for the quality and wearability.
An alternative option that boasts a similar shape is the Nobody’s Child Felicity dress , which is currently available in seven designs in the midi length, with prices ranging from £36 to £99 depending on the colourway. What I love about this dress in particular is that is had detachable spaghetti straps so can be worn two ways.
For those who like the yellow floral colour of the Abercrombie and Fitch dress, this Next Yellow Floral Print Puff Sleeve Shirred Midi Dress is a good option. It’s under £50, comes in sizes 4-26 and has an elegant square neck with tie detail and romantic puff sleeves create a timeless, feminine silhouette.
When it comes to the Abercrombie and Fitch dress, however, I am clearly not the only fan, with shoppers leaving glowing reviews online.
One wrote: “I wore this dress to a wedding and couldn’t have been happier with it. It is gorgeous and incredibly flattering – the fit hugged in all the right places without feeling restrictive. The material felt so luxurious and high-quality, adding an elegant touch that made it feel really special.
“I received so many compliments throughout the day – it’s definitely one of those dresses that makes you feel amazing as soon as you put it on. Perfect for weddings, parties, or any occasion where you want to feel your best.”
Another said: “Such a beautiful dress. The quality is gorgeous. Fits in the right places and is very flattering. Will be in my wardrobe for years to come.”
A third added: “This dress looks amazing. I got so many compliments wearing it. It can be both dressed up or down depending on the occasion.”
Of course, no dress is perfect for everyone. Some shoppers agreed that the zip can be a little tricky, adding: “Dresses are beautiful and super flattering I don’t usually suit drop waist but these work. Slightly hard to zip up had to have help.”
One reviewer said the sleeves felt ‘a bit puffy’ for their liking, but overall, the reviews are overwhelmingly positive.
For me, this was exactly what I wanted from a wedding guest dress – flattering, comfortable, practical and something I know I will wear again. For those still searching for that perfect spring or summer occasion dress, this might just be the one worth adding to basket.
