Oprah wore a summer dress so flattering it’s like an optical illusion

My motto in life: there is nothing that a little frown cannot hide (put that on a bumper sticker). Whether you’re heading to a summer wedding or just want to add a new dress to your wardrobe, a ruched dress is always a no-brainer. It wraps your waist and gives you that coveted hourglass effect. Plus, it can easily be dressed up with heels or dressed down with a pair of comfortable sandals. And you know who agrees with me? The queen of television herself: Oprah.

Oprah was recently spotted in a pastel pink long-sleeve ruched dress at the wedding of William Bumpus Jr., the son of her best friend Gayle King, at Oprah’s home in Montecito, Calif., and we took some notes. She looked so beautiful, not to mention that she seemed very comfortable, thanks to the stretchy nature of the dress. Talk about a wardrobe win! But of course, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention those ruched details that basically look like an optical illusion. It draws the eye inward, with the textured fabric drawing the eyes inward.

So whether you want something similar to Oprah’s, a short-sleeved version, or prefer to let your arms free with a sleeveless style, we’ve found some of the best ruched dresses for you, inspired by Oprah’s flattering wedding ensemble. You get a gathered dress! You get a gathered dress! You will all have a gathered dress! Got that Oprah reference? I hope so.

Norma Kamali Tara V-neck long-sleeve ruched stretch-jersey mid-length dress

When I think of ruching, I immediately think of Norma Kamali and her beautiful dresses. Not only are they super flattering on all body types, but they’re incredibly comfortable. Normally I have an aversion to spending hours in formal wear, but I feel like I’m in workout gear thanks to the brand’s use of four-way stretch jersey. This style comes in three colors and is customizable, making it something you can wear again and again. It can be worn front to back or back to front, and the neckline can be worn wide or higher on the shoulders. We love options!

Pretty Garden Off-The-Shoulder Ruched Bodycon Dress

If you’re pressed for time or have been invited to a wedding at the last possible minute in a “let’s each other’s wedding dates so everyone leaves us alone” romantic comedy, this Amazon number is a great option. There are 20 colors to choose from, including a pretty pink shade if Oprah is your muse. It doesn’t wear over the shoulder, but there is a non-slip strip on the bust area, so you don’t have to worry about slipping if you go too hard on the dance floor.

Abercrombie & Fitch Asymmetric Draped Knit Off Shoulder Maxi Dress

Dresses may not be the first thing you think of when you think of Abercrombie, but the brand has recently expanded its collections with plenty of formal dresses perfect for summer weddings and beach vacations. This ruched maxi dress comes in a pretty lilac shade or a floral option in a stretchy knit fabric. It’s also available in sizes XXS to XL and in petite, regular and tall lengths, so you don’t have to worry about it being too short or too long when you face plant on the dance floor .

Adooré Porto dress

Swedish brand Adoore is one of my go-tos when looking for a flattering dress for any occasion, because their mission is to create clothes that celebrate all different body types. The Porto dress, in particular, is incredibly flattering, with modest long sleeves, a sexy cutout at the waist, and a high leg slit. There are two floral designs to choose from, making this the perfect dress to stand out at a spring or summer event.

Shop more ruched dresses below and prepare to obsess over its waist-ripping effect.

J.Crew Ruched Asymmetric Dress

Elexiay Kebbi asymmetrical dress

Topshop strapless smocked maxi dress in checked cotton

Norma Kamali Diana Strapless Ruched Stretch Jersey Midi Dress

Rhode Lettie dress