Summer’s Hottest Trend: Ditch the Maxi, Wrap Yourself in a Kimono Dress

Please subscribe to our newsletter to receive updates from Your Next Shoes. This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure for more details.

Summer is officially here, and so is the beach. Well, at least it is to those who intend to go to the beach. And on top of both, so are kimono dresses.

Just take a cue from Nicole Richie, who shed her usual bohemian maxi style for a cocktail kimono dress at the Bing Celebration for Creative Minds. Nicole accessorized with House of Harlow 1960 jewelry and a vintage Pierre Cardin beaded metallic clutch.

Nicole Richie wearing a Winter Kate "Holdridge" jacket in ivory at Bing's Celebration of Creative Minds After-PartyNicole Richie wearing a Winter Kate “Holdridge” jacket in ivory at Bing’s Celebration of Creative Minds After-Party held at BOA Steakhouse in West Hollywood on June 22, 2010 (Credit: Adriana M. Barraza / WENN)

A kimono dress is a modern garment inspired by the traditional Japanese kimono. It typically features wide, flowing sleeves and a wrap-style front, often secured with a sash or belt.

Unlike the traditional kimono, a full-length robe, kimono dresses are usually shorter and may have a deep V-neckline. They are known for their loose, comfortable fit and are often made from lightweight, flowing fabrics.

Kimono dresses draw inspiration from the classic silhouette and design elements of the kimono, such as the wide sleeves, wrap-front, and use of sashes or beltsKimono dresses draw inspiration from the classic silhouette and design elements of the kimono, such as the wide sleeves, wrap-front, and use of sashes or belts

Kimono dresses blend traditional Japanese aesthetic elements with contemporary Western dress styles, making them popular for their unique look and versatility in both casual and formal settings.

Nicole Richie radiates elegance in a cocktail kimono dress, complementing her look with House of Harlow 1960 jewelry and a shimmering vintage Pierre Cardin beaded metallic clutchNicole Richie radiates elegance in a cocktail kimono dress, complementing her look with House of Harlow 1960 jewelry and a shimmering vintage Pierre Cardin beaded metallic clutch (Credit: Adriana M. Barraza / WENN)

A short kimono dress is a great piece you can use as a beach cover-up, a day dress, a date dress, or even a cocktail dress.

Besides, it’s a sexy piece of clothing that flatters almost any body type. The deep V-neckline created by the wrap feature always elongates and slims down the torso.

Nicole Richie showing off her feet in snakeskin pumpsNicole Richie showing off her feet in snakeskin pumps (Credit: Adriana M. Barraza / WENN)