Wiggle Dresses

A wiggle dress hugs the hips, then narrows towards the knee. That taper gives you the famous 1950s walk. Ours are made in England from stretch fabrics. So you get the curvy shape and can still move freely. Many styles use hip or crossbody pleating to define the waist. Browse sleeved, sleeveless and off-shoulder wiggle dress styles below. Sizes run from S to XXL.

What makes a wiggle dress

A wiggle dress is fitted from bust to knee. The skirt tapers so the hem is narrower than the hips. That creates a strong hourglass line. The name comes from the little sway in your step.

A classic pencil dress runs straight down from the hips. A wiggle dress pulls in more at the hem. It feels a touch more vintage and playful. Compare both in our pencil dresses collection.

Styles to look out for

The Atlantis has a black lace insert on the bodice. The Haversham pairs a fitted shape with contrast lace. The Brittany sits off the shoulder with a bow. For shine, the Prudence comes in satin. The Harriet is a jacquard pre-order style.

Fabrics include Ribbed Super Stretch, Bi-Stretch and Moss Crepe. Each one holds the taper without feeling stiff.

How to style a wiggle dress

  • For work, add court shoes and a short cardigan.
  • For a wedding, try a bold colour and a small clutch.
  • For evenings, wear heels, a red lip and hair pinned up.
  • A cropped jacket keeps your waist on show.

Love retro shapes? Our vintage inspired dresses carry the same spirit. Many wiggle styles also work as wedding guest dresses.

Getting the fit right

A wiggle dress only works if it fits well. The waist needs to sit at your natural waist. The skirt should hug, not pull. Our pattern-cutting roots in corsetry help here. Pleats at the hip shape the line and hide tummy worries.

If you are between sizes, go up. Firmer fabrics like Ribbed Super Stretch also suit one size up. Our team can advise if you are unsure. Just contact us.

Colours run from black and blue to pink, red and cobalt. Sleeves include three quarter, short and sleeveless options. Most styles sit on the knee, which keeps the taper in the right place.

Wiggle dress FAQs

Can I walk easily in a wiggle dress?

Yes. Our stretch fabrics move with you. Many styles also have a vent at the centre back.

Which size should I choose?

Go by your hip measurement, as this is the most fitted point. Our size guide shows each size in detail.

Are wiggle dresses suitable for the office?

They are. Choose a sleeved style in black or navy. It looks polished with a jacket.

When will a pre-order style arrive?

Pre-order styles ship later than in-stock dresses. Check the product page for dispatch dates.

Can I return a wiggle dress?

Yes, within 14 days in original condition with tags. Full details are on our shipping and returns page.

EU Right of Withdrawal

Under EU consumer law, customers may withdraw from their purchase within 14 days of delivery.

When submitting a return request, you may select Other as the return reason.

You do not need to provide a reason when exercising your EU withdrawal rights.

Returns are not available after 14 days from delivery.