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Cut-out dresses are still a major trend in 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, £178 / $244
- The black editor's pick: Sezane Ambre Midi Dress, £185 / $240
- The white editor's pick: M&S Tie Front Maxi Beach Dress, £58 / $115
- The cream editor's pick: H&M Cut-Out Shirt Dress, £37.99 / $49.99
- The denim editor's pick: Reformation Manon Denim Midi Dress, £248 / $248
- The designer editor's pick: Zimmermann Aster Cutout Printed Silk Dress, £1,075 / $1,350
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.
Gigi Hadid wore a cut-out dress by Christopher Esber to Taylor Swift's wedding rehearsal dinner this summer. The lemon yellow gown featured lace detail and cut-outs down the bodice.
Dakota Johnson looked incredible in a cut-out dress by royal-favourite Alessandra Rich in December. The plunging, strapless piece was slashed at the waist, and she completed the look with layers of diamonds.
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.
How 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 £1,075 at NET-A-PORTER to £37 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 made 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.
Sezane Ambre Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
This softly knitted dress from Sezane will look chic for any occasion. Sleeveless with a boat neckline, it has crochet hems and an invisible zip fastening. I'd style it with black sandals and gold jewellery.
H&M Cut-Out Shirt Dress
Editor's Note:
This cut-out dress is one of those H&M pieces that could pass for a much more expensive brand. Made from a lyocell blend and cut in a figure-skimming shirt silhouette in a cream shade, it's reminiscent of styles by Jacquemus.
Boden Sydney Twist Neck Jersey Dress
Editor's Note:
For just a subtle cut-out, Boden's twist halterneck dress has a small one at the chest, as well as side pockets and a flattering ruched waist. It comes in several different prints and colours - I love this trending chocolate brown.
Reformation Manon Denim Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
A denim dress is a wardrobe staple, and this one from Reformation is perfect for summer. From the delicate halter straps to the open back and button-down front, it's timeless and so versatile.
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.
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.
Zimmermann Aster Cutout Printed Silk Dress
Editor's Note:
The ultimate luxe day-to-night dress, this floaty Zimmermann midi is made from a stunning, tactile silk. It features paisley print, front cut-outs, and falls to a softly gathered skirt.
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.
