The best throw on dresses to survive the heatwave in
Oh how I love a throw on dress, especially during a heatwave when I can't bear the thought of anything remotely touching my skin.
The beauty of throw on dresses is that, as its name suggest, you can literally chuck it on and feel put-together, yet it is often roomy, airy and undeniably comfortable.
In other words, it requires minimal thought and effort, and that is just what we need during the era of working from home and Zoom calls (long may it not last). And if you're bored of loungewear, it's the logical next step, without going too far out of your comfort zone.
Over on Instagram, editors and influencers agree. The likes of Alexis Foreman, Monikh Dale and Brittany Bathgate have all embraced the trend, often pairing billowy and minimalist dresses with this summer's biggest shoe style: the thong sandal (preferably The Row).
You can even make them dressier by pairing them with some mules or barely-there heeled sandals.
Another great reason to invest in a throw-on dress is that it's more than just a passing trend, in fact, invest in the right one and you'll be wearing it summer after summer. Who doesn't love a billowy dress for lunch al fresco on holiday, right?
The key to picking the winning style, is cut and fabric. You don't want it to look like a sack, and you want lightweight and durable fabrics such as linen, cotton and silk. Think tent dressing, but make it fashion.
Although I'm a lover of all things print, I do think the throw-on dress works better if it's a block colour, or monochrome.
If you're feeling flush, contemporary designers such as Three Graces and Bouguessa offer some great options, though on the high street, the likes of COS and H&M are really nailing the trend too. Australian label particularly excel at this, and I'm a big fan of Matteau, SIR, Aje and Lee Mathews.
Shop my edit of the best throw-on dresses below.
Ballooning sleeves heighten the free-spirited impression of Lee Mathews' orange Oleander maxi dress. It's crafted from lightweight ramie voile illustrated by a bold hibiscus pattern and cut to a loose shape defined by shirring at the neck, waist and cuffs, then finished with slip pockets.
Part of the Debora Rosa edit for Reiss, the Marcella resort wear dress in white is a chic summertime offering. Finished with contemporary pleat detailing, it's cut with a plunging neckline, low back and is detailed with two front splits.
Inspired by Mallorca, Spain, one of her favorite places in the world, brand ambassador Sofia Sanchez de Betak (alias Chufy), has designed an exclusive collection of boho-style summer dresses, all made with sustainable fabrics.
Matteau's dress has been locally made in Australia from a diaphanous blend of organic cotton and silk. Simple and considered, it's gathered at the neckline and has voluminous blouson sleeves.
This white Sweaty Betty Air Flow maxi dress has been crafted with a lightweight fabric. Designed with slim, adjustable shoulder straps, this piece has a square neckline, side seam pockets and V-shaped back with logo detail.
This relaxed midi dress is detailed with seashell button closures and a tonal belt. Wear it with or without the belt depending on what kind of fit you like.
Perfect for a walk along the beach or a simple stroll through town, this long flowing dress oozes bohemian charm. The pink hue is perfectly on trend fo SS21.
Prepare to be Little Miss Sunshine in this canary cotton number, designed with an easy, breezy silhouette fit for hot summer days. Topped by big sleeve energy and a scooped back with delicate tie detailing, Juicy's tiered, voluminous skirt was made for movement as you swish around this summer.
