15 Ways to Wear a Convertible Maxi Dress

 

Photo: Bella Bridesmaids | Dyanna LaMora

Once you’ve ordered THE wedding dress, it’s time for our favorite part of wedding planning:

Shopping for bridesmaid dresses!

Some brides choose the same dress for every bestie in her wedding party.

Others choose a color and fabric from a particular designer. Then, they let each bridesmaid choose a silhouette that suits her style and body type.

Others mix and match completely different looks in different fabrics and different colors.

But there’s another approach: choosing a convertible bridesmaid dress that your wedding party can wear in more than a dozen different ways!

We sometimes call them an “infinity bridesmaid dress” — or even a multiway dress or multi-wrap dress. No matter what you call it, the convertible bridesmaid dress offers versatility. And there are all sorts of cool and interesting ways to wear one.

Need some inspo on how to wear and tie a multiway gown?

Here’s our step-by-step guide on 15 ways to wear a convertible bridesmaid dress:

What Is a Convertible Bridesmaid Dress?

 

Most convertible dresses are maxi dresses. But some simple alterations can easily turn them into midi dresses or knee-length silhouettes. They’re most commonly A-line silhouettes with two long pieces of fabric that hang from the waist.

The beauty in these dresses is that you can create various necklines, backs, sleeves, and straps with this fabric hanging at the waistband. You can twist, wrap, tie, and manipulate them in various cool ways!

Convertible dresses come in a variety of colors, textures, and fabrics. Fabrics include chiffon, tulle, rayon, and even spandex.

Depending on the fabric you choose and how you style them, they can be simple, sophisticated, dramatic, or boho chic.

Whether you’re having a large, formal wedding in a fancy ballroom or a backyard barn wedding on a hay-filled farm, convertible dresses are like Mean Girls quotes…

…There’s one that suits every occasion!

So, while we aren’t going to try to make “fetch” happen, we are about to walk you through all the various (and gorgeous!) ways to wear a convertible maxi dress.

Looking for the perfect bridesmaid dresses? Find a Bella Bridesmaids location near you.

15 Ways to Wear a Convertible Bridesmaid Dress

 

1. Draped on One Shoulder

 

Jenny Yoo Convertible Bridesmaid Dress Annabelle (Hydrangea)

One of the prettiest and easiest ways to wear a convertible dress is in a one-shoulder silhouette.

To create this look, start by draping both straps over each shoulder. Then, pull one diagonally across the body so they’re on the same side.

Give them a twist or two to keep them secure, then wrap the excess fabric around your waist. Tie it in the front, side, back, or wherever you feel most comfortable.

For some added asymmetry and extra drama, you can tie the straps into a bow on the shoulder or let them drape loosely down the back.

2. One Shoulder Twist

 

Bari Jay Lux Infinity Dress

The one-shoulder silhouette with a diagonal twist strap is a gorgeous, playful option for a warm-weather wedding.

Start by draping both straps over one shoulder. Then, twist the straps together at the top of the shoulder to create a braided effect down to the back of the waist.

To finish it off, wrap the straps around the front and tie the excess fabric into a knot or twist-wrap it into a bow on the side.

3. X-Back Twist

 

Want to look like a Grecian goddess?

The X-back twist is the style you’re looking for!

To create this look, place one strap over each shoulder and twist the straps inward until you hit below the waist. Then, crisscross the straps across the back, wrap them around the waist, and tie them together.

4. T-Back Twist

 

Jenny Yoo Julia (Mayan Blue)

The T-back twist adds texture and an unexpected touch of drama. That’s true whether you’re outfitting your wedding party in muted shades like dusty blue or dusty rose or neutral colors such as black, taupe, or gray.

To create a T-back twist, place one strap over each shoulder and twist them inward.

When you get to the back of the neck, begin twisting them together. The T-strap can go all the way down to the waist, or you can stop it mid-way down the back.

Once you’ve gotten it to the length you want, wrap the straps around the waist and tie them into a bow in the back.

5. Backless with Twist Straps

 

For a backless V-neck look, place one strap over each shoulder and twist them inward until they meet at the back of the waist. Then, wrap the straps around the waist and tie them into a knot or a bow in the back.

This style creates a fabulous look from every angle and is incredibly easy to pull off!

6. Short Sleeves with Full Coverage

 

Want a bit more coverage for a cool-weather wedding?

Convertible dresses can also transform into short-sleeve silhouettes.

Just drape the straps over each shoulder and spread the fabric to cover the top of the shoulders. Crisscross the panels in the back, wrap the straps around the waist, and tie them together behind you.

For more coverage, you can also fan the straps out and down over the back so no extra skin shows. In deep colors like burnt orange, burgundy, or navy blue, this silhouette is perfect for a fall or winter wedding.

Read The Ultimate Guide to Bridesmaid Dress Styles to discover the perfect bridesmaid dress style(s) for your wedding!

7. Halter Neckline with Long Bow Back

 

The halter neckline is so easy to create that you can probably do it with your eyes closed! Whether choosing a pastel color palette or deep, dark hues, the halter dress always works and flatters.

Just put one strap over each shoulder and tie them at the back of the neck. Make a bow, pull the ends to your desired length, and that’s it.

8. Front Neck Halter

 

Bari Jay Velvet Infinity Dress

An updated version of the classic halter, this silhouette looks intricate but is super easy to pull off.

Start with one strap over each shoulder, then crisscross each one over the opposite shoulder to create a chic front twist.

Depending on how much texture you want, you can twist or drape the straps. You can tie them at the back of your neck or cross them around your waist and tie them into a bow at the waistband.

9. Strapless

 

Jenny Yoo Annabelle Dress

You can turn a convertible dress into a chic shoulder-baring silhouette for the bridesmaid who feels most confident in a strapless top.

Start by crisscrossing the straps at the waist twice.

Pull the fabric up to cover the bust, then pull the straps around the back. Then, pull them around your waist. Tie them back into a simple knot or a pretty bow.

10. Off the Shoulder

 

Jenny Yoo Julia Dress

Draped-off-the-shoulder sleeves add a hint of coverage and an extra element of romance.

Start by draping one strap over each shoulder, crisscrossing them at the back to create a sleeveless silhouette. Then, loosen the straps a bit so that they fall gently off each shoulder.

11. Knotted Tank

 

Bari Jay Lux Infinity Dress

While the happy couple may be tying the knot, bridesmaids must tie TWO knots to create this super chic look.

Put one strap over each shoulder. Tie a knot (as high or low as you want) in each.

With your knots in place, loop the straps at the back of the neck, wrap them around your waist, and tie them into a bow or a knot in the back.

12. Knotted Cap Sleeves

 

If the cap sleeve and the knotted tank bodice had a love child, this would be it.

To create this silhouette, make a knot in each strap (just above the bust), then pull the straps over each shoulder. Pull some fabric down to create cap sleeves, then crisscross the rest of the fabric in the back.

Finish by wrapping the straps around the waist and tying them into a bow.

13. Backless Halter

 

Bari Jay Lux Infinity Dress

Maybe you’re opting for pretty mauve gowns for <a href=">a springtime affair. Maybe you’re choosing sage-green bridesmaid dresses for a late-fall event.

No matter the season or what color you choose, an open back always makes a bold statement.

With one strap over each shoulder, cross the straps at the back of the neck, then bring the straps down under each arm, leaving the back exposed. Wrap them around the waist and tie them with a simple knot or a feminine bow at the back.

14. Sleeveless

 

Jenny Yoo Julia Dress

The sleeveless V-neckline is one of the easiest and most flattering of all silhouettes. Achieving this look is as simple as 1-2-3.

Put one strap over each shoulder, crisscross them in the back, wrap them around the waist, and tie them.

It’s no surprise that this is such a popular wedding look — pulling it off is a piece of cake!

15. Buckle Waist

 

A slight variation on the sleeveless silhouette, this option is perfect for the bridesmaid who wants to accentuate her waist!

Place one strap over each shoulder, cross them in the back, and then crisscross them in the front — twice. The second cross forms a chain-link pattern, creating a cool buckle effect.

Wrap them around the back and tie them together to complete the look.

Bonus Tip: Get a Friend to Help

 

Twisting and wrapping straps isn’t hard, but having a friend to help is always best. Grab a fellow bridesmaid and practice a few days ahead of time to make sure you look perfect on the wedding day.

Check out hundreds of beautiful, modern bridesmaid dresses in the Bella Bridesmaids collection.

 

---

 

The convertible bridesmaid dress is one of the most versatile gowns you can buy, with countless ways to style it beautifully.

The infinity dress is a great option for any wedding party, and it’s available from multiple designers in a wide range of colors and sizes. For bridesmaids in search of maternity dresses, the flexible styling options also make it easy to flatter a growing baby bump.

With a convertible dress, each bridesmaid can create her ideal look. That way, she feels confident and comfortable throughout your special day.

Looking for more tips and inspiration? Follow us on TikTok, Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook.