From J.Lo to Sarah Jessica Parker, Celebrities Can't Stop Wearing This It Dress
Sometimes a brand just gets it right, and it rarely goes unnoticed. In the 1970s, Norma Kamali released the now-iconic Diana dress, a one-shoulder design with all-over ruching that's been repeatedly selling out ever since. Even Carrie Bradshaw approves—Sarah Jessica Parker was spotted in the signature design on the set of And Just Like That… last year.
The secret to its success? As we see it, it's all down to the timeless simplicity and universally flattering details. Modified in recent years to include a built-in bodysuit that nips in the waist and creates an hourglass silhouette, the Diana is designed to make you feel confident and classy. Plus, compared to other designer styles, it is relatively affordable coming in around £200.
But it's not the only Norma Kamali piece that has this effect. As popular as the label's signature dress is, it won't be to everyone's taste (despite the choice of over 31 colourways and two length options, mini or midi). So our editors did the research and concluded that there are numerous other dresses from the designer that deserve your attention. Trust us, Norma Kamali is far from a one-hit wonder.
Scroll on to see our favourite examples of celebs and influencers donning Norma Kamali dresses, including but not limited to the Diana. Then, check out our roundup of alternative designs that are just as chic.
Sarah Jessica Parker shows off Norma Kamali's signature Diana dress on the set of And Just Like That…
The sheer version really highlights the ruching, as demonstrated by Ashley Graham at a Savage x Fenty event.
It's not just the Diana dress that's caught celebs' attention. Here, Jennifer Lopez wears a satin Norma Kamali gown for her appearance on The Tonight Show.
Influencers love the label, too. Katherine Ormerod wears a sheer devoré slip dress.
Shop the Diana Dress
It's stayed in style since the '70s, so you can rest assured this black ruched dress is a solid investment.
Add gold heels and lashings of jewellery to this coral iteration.
Channel your inner Carrie Bradshaw in this ice-blue iteration.
Norma Kamali has covered all the bases with this winter-proof long-sleeve take on the Diana dress.
The ultimate night-out LBD, made from sheer mesh with a built-in bodysuit.
Shop the Other Best Norma Kamali Dresses
We're pretty sure this is going to be the next It dress from Norma Kamali's collection.
Norma Kamali is also known for her flattering cut-outs, this time paired with the brand's favoured asymmetric hemline.
You could have a lot of fun layering with this striking piece, either with a simple slip or full jeans-and-tee outfit underneath.
For black-tie events, the designer's satin dresses feel timeless and luxurious.
This floor-sweeping frock is incredibly classic—pull it out on special occasions for years to come.
Shop Norma Kamali Jumpsuits
This powder-blue jumpsuit is perfect for autumn/winter weddings or professional events.
Make an entrance this party season. I'd add silver-toned accessories and strappy heels.
Who says sherbert shades are reserved for summer?
Part of Norma Kamali's genius is in her ability to adapt to modern fashion currents. Case in point: this sleek cut-out jumpsuit.
The ultimate foundation piece for layered winter looks.
Next Up: I Swear This High-Street Brand Is Serving Up the Best Dresses This Autumn
Bébhinn Campbell is an Edinburgh-based fashion and lifestyle writer. After receiving an Audrey Hepburn box set for her 10th birthday and subsequently swooning over the actor’s wardrobe, Bébhinn felt pretty confident she wanted a career that involved clothes. She started her first blog at age 14—the title was a pun, but we’ll leave it at that—and went on to intern at print and digital publications in Berlin and London, including Dazed & Confused and Indie magazine.
A job at a fashion startup took Bébhinn from Ireland to Scotland in 2019, where she now works as a freelance journalist and copywriter covering everything from travel and interiors to styling advice. As a contributor for Who What Wear, Bébhinn always keeps her eyes peeled for emerging trends and looks worth writing about. She prides herself on her ability to cut through the noise and identify solid investment buys, exciting new brands and updated takes on classic designs.
While she still loves Audrey Hepburn films, these days, Bébhinn’s sartorial taste sits closer to Annie Hall’s and Alexa Chung’s. In her spare time, she’s likely cooing over cute dogs on rescue websites, playing folk songs on her guitar and browsing bookshops for new additions to her already-overpacked shelves.
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