If you lived through the noughties, there is probably a very specific image which comes to mind anytime anyone utters the word “body-con.” It’s likely the depiction of Paris Hilton or a young Kim Kardashian dressed to the nines in sky-high heels, smokey-eye makeup, and a figure-hugging bandage minidress. As iconic as those styles may be, some 20 years later, the concept of body-con has been reimagined, refreshed, and given an entirely new meaning.
As seen on the runways of Jacquemus, Bottega Veneta, Proenza Schouler, and more, 2020’s take on body-con is less about restrictive materials and more about flattering, soft, and comfortable fabrics. “Today’s version of body-con is more elegant,” explains Elizabeth von der Goltz, global buying director at Net-a-Porter. “It was interesting to see brands bringing sexy back, but in a more modern and updated style.” This autumn, the key to body-con, according to von der Goltz, is to “keep hemlines long and style with second-skin boots.”
Created predominantly in luxury knitted fabrics with ribbed detailing or comfortable stretch materials, the 2020 body-con now exists far beyond the runway, as high-street labels have started delivering their own takes on the trend. Arket, & Other Stories, Mango, and more have created their own iterations. Providing the ultimate comfort, this relaxed take on body-con is the simple autumn dress trend which can easily be worn for just about any occasion.
Keep scrolling to see how influencers are styling the trend and to shop body-con dresses.
