Confession time. Save for holidays and the occasional wedding, I’ve completely avoided wearing dresses throughout my 20s. I know they’re meant to be the most straightforward pieces to wear – they’re easy-breezy right? But I continuously revert to failsafe jeans.
I’m a trouser gal, so maybe it’s the need for comfort and the familiar when on-the-go, but whatever the reason, I’m determined to shake things up this season as there are so many great dresses around.
What kind of dress is best for summer?
So I’ve made it my mission to seek out dresses I want to wear. I want fabrics that are breathable and soft to the touch, like cottons, modal or viscose. I don’t want a dress that clings to any odd places or is a nightmare to wash.
The five dress styles to shop now
I’ve kept different body shapes and heights in mind for this edit, seeking out dresses that will be effortless for lots of people to wear. Of course, colour, prints, necklines, and hemlines all depend on personal style, but I’ve found a handful of go-to summer styles that are universally flattering…
1. The essential everyday dress
This New Look dress just feels effortless, thanks to the fit-and-flare shape that makes it comfortable to wear. The mid-length is ideal for everyday, from wafting around on weekdays working-from-home, to running errands on the weekend.
The linen-look fabric is lightweight enough for wearing in hotter destinations, and durable enough for exploring and getting about, too, so it’s a no-brainer for holidays. Especially in the different shades you can buy it in. Just pair with trainers, or with chunky sandals when it’s hot.
What to wear it with:
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2. The smart office dress
A smart choice for wearing to the office, this dress is incredibly versatile with a nod to the summer’s colour-blocking trend. The soft satin fabric and classic shirt style make it perfect for wearing all day, as it’s super comfy but equally chic.
Pair with chunky gold jewellery to add some contrast and shine. And stick to simple white trainers for a classic look.
What to wear it with:
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3. The sophisticated soirée dress
This Nobody’s Child dress is a must-have style for a sophisticated summer event. It has a figure-flattering shape, with a sweet-heart neckline that’s a winner for all bust sizes, and the ruched sleeves and soft fabric make it look more expensive than it is.
With so many events and weddings having been rescheduled to this year, this is definitely the summer to invest in a chic dress you can restyle over again. This will look just as good dressed up with heels for an occasion as dressed down with trainers to a family lunch.
What to wear it with:
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4. The statement sundowner dress
The SS22 catwalks were awash with vibrant dresses, perfect for hot summer days and sizzling sundowner evenings. Every summer wardrobe needs a statement dress for bringing the glam on a night out, and this bright pink mini dress immediately caught my eye.
A bold print might not be for everyone, but this is a gorgeous, less outré option that still feels sexy. The tie belt detailing adds an extra something while the frill hem gives it a playful feel.
What to wear it with:
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5. The easy-breezy beach dress
A beautiful broderie dress for sunny summer days when you’re strolling to brunch on a city break, or heading to the beach and need a cover-up, is a must. In breathable 100% cotton, and in a loosely fitting shape, it won’t cling in hot weather, either.
Whether you want to wear it in the city or on holiday, it’ll work just as well with white trainers and a leather crossbody as it would a pair of sandals, a raffia bag and an oversized straw hat.
What to wear it with:
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