Off the shoulder dresses: The only style you need this season

Shop the best off the shoulder dresses, whatever your style or budget...

SS16 Off-The-Shoulder Dress
SS16 Off-The-Shoulder Dress

Shop the best off the shoulder dresses, whatever your style or budget...

Off the shoulder dresses are having a bit of a moment this season, and no matter what your plans, they look set the be the stand-out style for your stylish summer.

From retro-inspired Bardot dresses complete with fun, full-volume skirts which are perfect fro your BFF's wedding, to boho-inspired printed versions which will instantly amp up your beach-side look - there are so many ways to bare those shoulders for SS16.

But this season, while the festival and summer holiday styles are available in an abundance, the cold shoulder look has had a seriously high fashion makeover. Seen all over the catwalks, they re now a certified evening staple coming in luxe silks, rich embroidery and complemented by on-trend ruffles. Taking on a draped aesthetic, this season s off-the-shoulder look offers more of a fluid and dramatic silhouette. Look to Ellery and Proenza Shoulder for a masterclass in SS16 s romantic mood.

Whether you go for Chloe s uber cool denim style for breezy weekends or Alexander McQueen s oh-so-pretty and on-trend pink number ideal for rooftop cocktails, there s a breezy nonchalance to the off-the-shoulder look that s difficult to find fault with.

Wedding guest dressing will also be that much cooler should you opt for something floaty and chic. Look to Isolda for an utterly romantic floral print- just add a bold lip and some suitably strappy heels. Or, for something a little more dramatic, look to Christopher Kane who has created a to-die-for embellished show-stopper.

However, if you re looking for something that won t require blowing the budget, Warehouse, Mango and Zara have plenty of cool styles which will allow you to try out the trend for less. Under £100 in fact.

Whether you take your cue from the catwalks and go luxe or opt for an easy-going weekend and beach version, there s never been more choice. And your new season wardrobe will seriously thank you for investing in one of SS16 s key and most versatile trends.

The leading destination for fashion, beauty, shopping and finger-on-the-pulse views on the latest issues. Marie Claire's travel content helps you delight in discovering new destinations around the globe, offering a unique – and sometimes unchartered – travel experience. From new hotel openings to the destinations tipped to take over our travel calendars, this iconic name has it covered.