Jessica Howard Wrap Dress | Timeless Elegance Meets Effortless Style
Our wrap dress is the answer to easy elegance — a design we've perfected over decades of dressing women for life's most important moments. The self-tie waist flatters every silhouette while the jersey knit drapes beautifully without clinging. We cut the bodice with a V-neckline that elongates, and the three-quarter sleeves offer coverage without feeling restrictive.
We chose a premium jersey knit for this wrap dress because it delivers the drape of silk with the comfort of activewear. The fabric contains just enough spandex to hold its shape through wear and washing, yet it never feels restrictive. You'll notice the difference in how it skims rather than clings — we engineered the weight to be substantial enough to hang beautifully without adding bulk.
The flattering wrap silhouette
The wrap dress has been a wardrobe staple since the 1970s, and we’ve refined every detail to make ours the most flattering version yet. The self-tie closure sits at your natural waist, creating definition while the crossover neckline draws the eye vertically. This combination creates an hourglass shape on every body type.
Our designers cut the bodice panels on the bias so they drape smoothly across the torso without gaping. The interior snap at the waist keeps everything secure, so you never have to worry about the dress shifting as you move. The fit and flare construction we use across our dress line shares the same attention to proportion — each style is engineered to balance the silhouette.
Sizing and fit guidance
This dress runs true to size with a relaxed fit through the bodice and a flowing skirt. We offer sizes 4 through 16 in our missy range and 14W through 24W in plus sizes. The wrap style is inherently adjustable, so if you’re between sizes, we recommend sizing down for a more tailored look.
Length and sleeve measurements
The dress measures approximately 46 inches from the highest point of the shoulder to the hem on a size 8. The three-quarter sleeves end just below the elbow at about 18 inches. If you prefer a shorter or longer hem, the jersey fabric is easy to alter — take it to any tailor for a quick adjustment.
Fabric & fit details
More signature Jessica Howard styles
Customer reviews
Common questions about this wrap dress
Yes, the dress runs true to size with a relaxed fit. The wrap style is inherently adjustable, so you can customize the fit at the waist. If you typically fall between sizes, we suggest sizing down for a more tailored silhouette. The jersey fabric has built-in stretch, which accommodates natural body fluctuations throughout the day.
Absolutely. Machine wash cold on the gentle cycle with similar colors, then tumble dry on low heat. The jersey knit is engineered to hold its shape through regular laundering. Avoid bleach and fabric softener, as they can degrade the spandex fibers over time. Most customers find the dress comes out of the dryer ready to wear with minimal to no ironing needed.
The dress measures approximately 46 inches from the highest point of the shoulder to the hem on a size 8, which typically hits mid-calf on most women. The three-quarter sleeves end just below the elbow at about 18 inches. If you need a different length, the jersey fabric is easy for a tailor to adjust without compromising the overall drape.
Yes, we designed the wrap with both style and security in mind. The self-tie waist allows you to adjust the fit exactly how you want it, while the interior snap keeps everything in place throughout the day. The crossover bodice is cut on the bias to lay flat without gaping, so you can move confidently without constantly readjusting.
The dress is versatile enough for a wide range of events — from weddings and cocktail parties to business meetings and dinner dates. The classic wrap silhouette and mid-calf length read as polished and elegant, while the comfortable jersey fabric keeps you at ease. Dress it up with heels and statement jewelry or keep it casual with flats and a cardigan.
No, the jersey knit is remarkably wrinkle-resistant. You can fold or roll the dress in your suitcase, and it will come out ready to wear with just a quick shake. Many customers specifically choose this dress for travel because it requires no steaming or ironing. If you do notice any creases, hanging the dress in a steamy bathroom for a few minutes will release them.
Yes, the side-seam pockets are fully functional and deep enough to hold essentials like your phone, keys, or lipstick. We positioned them carefully so they don’t add bulk or disrupt the line of the dress. The pockets are reinforced at the opening to prevent stretching, even with regular use.