The latest craze in party dressing is sort of a seasonal adaptation of the off-the-shoulder silhouette that made its triumphant return in summer and fall. When the weather isn't amenable to the Bardot-esque neckline, you must find other ways to highlight those shoulders. Enter the latest wave of shoulder-baring, which involves another favorite show-it-off trick: cutouts. We've seen more and more inventive uses of cutouts over the past few seasons. Proenza Schouler has sent wrap-look bandage sweaters with mismatched slits, rounded peepholes on party dresses, and ribbon-tied open-sided gowns down the runway. There have been a number of red carpet cutout cameos, too: At the most recent Golden Globes, both Brie Larson's Calvin Klein dress and Jennifer Lawrence's Dior featured ab-revealing side openings, for instance. The trend has also expanded beyond the torso to shed light — literally and figuratively — a bit farther north.
With sharp edges and unexpected placement, these cutouts bring the eye upward and make for some seriously cool (but subtle) cold shoulder moments. And, it makes for a fresh update to the tried-and-true LBD, as the three celeb-approved looks ahead prove. So, save the frilly neckline for the summer. See how celebrities are wearing the next wave of going-out cutouts.
The Little Black Dress is the hardest-working going-out piece in your wardrobe. It's easy to toss on and, more importantly, is adaptable to most trends. Case in point: Karlie Kloss' arty Christopher Kane number, with cutouts that start at the shoulders and run all the way down to the hem.
The shoulder and hip cutouts on Liu Wen's Prabal Gurung jumpsuit tease an angular-framed open back. The high tank look and the fitted silhouette around the neckline give the top a sporty feel, while the extra-long trousers dress up the ensemble a bit more.
Sarah Paulson's Cushnie et Ochs midi achieves the cutout effect by layering: A bandage-esque band sits coolly over a sleeveless high-neck silhouette to create the off-the-shoulder look.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Over Minimalism? These Loud Patterned Bags Are What Your Spring Wardrobe Needs
How To Snag A Pair Of Rihanna's Latest Fast-Selling Sneaker
What Happens When You Pull Out All The Stops On The Red Carpet