What Is a Fit-and-Flare Dress for Girls?

1. Close-fitting on top, wide at the skirt

A fit-and-flare dress is fitted at the top and flows out from the waist. That's the whole idea. You've probably seen one on a little girl at a birthday party without knowing what it was called. Swipe to learn what makes it special.

2. It All Happens at the Waist

Find the line where the top stops. That's the waist, and it's where the dress changes. Above it, the dress hugs her a little. Below it, the skirt opens out. Some dresses put a bit of trim or a few frills right there, so the shape is even easier to spot.

3. Kids Love It Because of the Twirl

Put a girl in a fit-and-flare dress and she'll start spinning. The skirt is wide, so it swings out when she turns, and that's what girls like the  most. It works for birthdays and festivals. It's also good for a normal day when she just wants to feel dressed up.

4. Fit-and-Flare vs. A-Line

Give a kid a wide skirt and she will spin in it. Mirror, hallway, kitchen, everywhere. That swing is why fit-and-flare dresses are such a hit.

5. Can She Play in It?

Yes, if you choose the right one. A plain soft cotton that lets her skin breathe. Ask her to raise her arms and bend down. If both feel easy, it's fine. The wide skirt gives her legs plenty of room, which is a plus.

6. Where Can She Wear It?

Almost anywhere. It looks lovely at parties and family functions. A plain cotton one is fine for weekends and outings too. If she's going to run and climb, put leggings underneath, so you don't have to worry about the skirt flying up.

7. Shop Fit and Flare Dresses

Found the one? Browse One Friday's fit and flare dresses, with the waist seam where it should be and a skirt that stops around the knee. Check the size chart, and let her spin in it.