Katie Holmes Test-Drives the Drop Waist Dress Trend Taylor Swift and Meghan Markle Adore
She took the low-slung look to a New York Fashion Week party.
It's not every day that Katie Holmes turns a late-night sidewalk into a runway. Whether she's spotted in skinny jeans and an exposed bra or punk-rock Miu Miu ballerinas, she's usually making fashion statements in broad daylight. But with New York Fashion Week officially underway, the actress is switching up her routine and her wardrobe. And, she's doing it with an assist from a Taylor Swift and Meghan Markle-approved fall trend: the drop-waist dress.
Katie Holmes was one of many A-listers in attendance at Barneys's limited-time pop-up opening on Tuesday, September 3. She joined a range of stars at the Elizabeth Street Garden celebration, including Teyana Taylor, Emily Ratajkowski, Ella Emhoff, and more.
There, the Dawson's Creek star donned a black drop-waisted dress from the London-based brand TOVE, most likey pulled by stylist Brie Welch. The strapless silhouette, priced at $732, featured bunched pleats at the bust, contrasting smooth panels at the bodice, and a low-slung maxi skirt.
Holmes went minimal with her accessories. Instead of trying fall's biggest jewelry trend like Dakota Johnson—a chunky, oversize pendant necklace—she opted for simple, pointed slingback kitten heels and a sleek leather crossbody bag.
Holmes isn't the only celebrity bringing out the retro-inspired style for the end of summer. Fellow stars from Meghan Markle to Taylor Swift have all taken drop waist dresses for a spin, in versions by St. Agni and Vivienne Westwood, respectively.
While drop waist dresses rose to fame this summer, make no mistake: the drop waist look, both in skirt and dress form, is here to stay in the coming months and years ahead. It's subtly structured, yet comfortable, and with styling options through the roof. For a casual day out, they pair easily with dainty and equally trendy ballet flats or tiny heels. As temperatures cool, they're perfect with heeled boots (and added layers of cozy knits).
Take the drop waist look into fall and shop similar styles inspired by Katie Holmes below.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Shop Drop Waist Dresses Inspired by Katie Holmes
Born and raised in Memphis, India Roby is a freelance journalist based in New York City. In 2021, India graduated from The New School with a Bachelor’s in Journalism + Design and a minor in Fashion Communication.
India’s work at Marie Claire focuses on celebrity style, shopping, and cultural deep-dives on fashion trends. She also wears many (!) other hats, with her bylines also appearing in Architectural Digest, NYLON, Highsnobiety, Harper’s Bazaar, Teen Vogue, Byrdie, The Zoe Report, Fashionista, and others. You can follow her on Instagram at @indiajde and Twitter (she refuses to call it X) at @india_roby.
-
This $4,900 Bag Is the Hero of Hailey Bieber's Mom Style
A case for the oversized staple.
By Kelsey Stiegman Published
-
Here's Where Textured Hair Education in America Stands in 2025
Meet the leaders behind the movement for more equitable hair care.
By Kayla Greaves Published
-
We Can't Promise You Won't Get Nightmares After Watching These 32 Great But Terrifying Paranormal Movies
Bring on the jump scares.
By Katherine J. Igoe Published
-
Dua Lipa Flashes a Closer Look at Her Rumored $30,000 Diamond Engagement Ring on "Date Night"
Her relationship status isn't confirmed, but the ring's valuation is.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
Who Is Jessica McCormack? Zendaya's Engagement Ring Designer and a Celebrity-Beloved Jeweler
Jessica McCormack's pieces are red-carpet staples.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
J.Crew's Araks Lingerie Collab Is a Valentine You Can Send Yourself
The label teamed up with Araks to design decadent silk bralettes.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
Kendall Jenner Wraps Up in a $5,900 Cashmere Robe and Hailey Bieber's Investment Ballet Flats
Cozy, comfortable, and quite expensive.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
The Self-Taught Designer Behind Taylor Swift's Custom Chiefs Jacket Just Officially Launched Her Own Brand
Off Season, designed by the maker of Swift's coat, just launched.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
Kendall Jenner Pairs a $1,590 Clutch by Her Favorite Designer With a Rising Heel Trend
This pair will convince you to quit flats for good.
By Halie LeSavage Last updated
-
Zendaya's Engagement Style Era Starts Anti-Bridal, Pairing Her East-West Diamond Ring to a Dior Black Blazer and Lacy Skirt
Her first look post-ring reveal is head-to-toe black.
By Halie LeSavage Last updated
-
Hailey Bieber Shows Off the Sold-Out Saint Laurent Bag Every Fashion Girl Wants With a Leather Trench and $820 Ballet Flats by The Row
She snagged hers last fall.
By Halie LeSavage Published