I’m currently six months pregnant, so summer dresses for me are the perfect garment to wear now that spring seems to have finally sprung. However my obsession with them predates the bump. In my opinion, there is simply no better piece of fuss-free clothing.
You don’t need to worry about coordinating complicated outfits, just throw it on, add a pair of shoes and a designer handbag – and you’re done.
The beauty of this wardrobe staple is that there is a style to suit literally every taste. Minimalists will love a simple linen or silk maxi, while maximalists will fall in love with this season’s bold colours and floral prints.
Summer dresses: trends
This season, summer fashion trends as seen on the catwalk dictate that we all embrace colour. A natural continuation of last year’s feel-good mood, we’re seeing plenty of colour-blocking, whether that’s pinks, tangerines or cobalt blues.
We’re also seeing a penchant for neutrals, perfect if you’re after a more understated look. Think jade greens, butter yellows, creams and the palest of beiges.
Length-wise, while midi dresses are still king, hemlines are getting a little longer in a nostalgic nod to the noughties, so do think about investing in a straight length maxi dress. Even better when styled with chunky flip flops (The Row have re-issued their sell-out Ginza sandals for another season).
In terms of prints, look for tie dye to indulge in the bohemian trend, or a more classic floral which will never go out of style.
Whatever your fancy, I’ve cherry picked best summer dresses from my favourite designers and high street stores so that you don’t have to go on an epic quest to find what works for you. For now, wear them with boots and a quilted jacket.
Swap for chunky or naked sandals and a basket bag when the days get warmer, for the ultimate holiday look.
Nancy dress (If Only If x VCH), £135 at If Only If
The Nancy might be a night dress, but it would be a shame to only wear it at night. it's the perfect piece of clothing for warmer weather and holidays by the pool. With its cool yet soft GOTS certified organic poplin material and opaque quality, Nancy can helpfully be worn in and out of the bedroom amongst friends and family. It's wave straps and cross back, together with it's elegant long line and button-down front make this nightdress something very special.
St. Agni Striped Knitted Maxi Dress, £220 at Browns
This neutral St. Agni striped knitted maxi dress is spun from tencel, a fabric made with sustainably sourced natural raw wood material. The perfect neutral summer dress.
ISOLDE DRESS, $398 at DOEN
The Isolde dress is all classic countryside charm with its smocked waist and full skirt.
AJE Introspect cutout ripple-print twill dress, £485 at MatchesFashion
Aje patterns this pleated Introspect dress with tie-dyed pink ripples, then accents the pleated racer-neck bodice with a cutout back.
Jolene Green Check Seersucker Dress, £165 at KITRI
This shirred cotton dress is finished with a retro square neckline, and balloon sleeves. It's made from lightweight seersucker gingham in spirited green and red.
GANNI Tiger-print georgette maxi wrap dress, £84 at The Outnet
This tiger print dress is one of Ganni's best-sellers and for good reason. Thanks to its print and wrap style, it's absolutely timeless.
JACQUEMUS La Robe Bari cutout blazer minidress, £880 at MyTheresa
The La Robe Bari minidress from Jacquemus is a blazer dress with bold cutouts at the waist. Voluminous through the shoulders and chest, it's cinched at the waist with a same-fabric buttoned belt.
Contrasting lace dress, £149 at Zara
This limited-edition dress features a patchwork of paisley and floral patterns with an emo feel. Perfect worn now with chunky black boots.
Green floral midi button-up dress, £30 at Monki
This oversized green midi shirt dress features a floral pattern, perfect for a subtle update to your spring wardrobe.
Cille dress, £150 at Samsøe Samsøe
This sleeveless midi dress has a fitted body and full hemline. It also comes in green.
The Margot Dres, £95 at Peachy Den
The Margot Dress is a double layered one shoulder mini dress, giving you that asymmetric look. Consisting of a light mesh with a natural stretch, she is perfect for those hot summer days, keeping you cool and comfortable from day to night.
Nobody’s Child Esme midi dress, £49
This checked dress is made with sustainably-sourced yarn.
Lickyboy The Cuba Libre Dress, £255 at Annie’s Ibiza
Say hello to the perfect holiday dress, that perfectly hits this season's love-in with crochet and all things bohemian.
Rainbow Dress, £500 at KALITA
This spaghetti strap classic is crafted in soft jewel toned cotton gauze and lined for versatility. Featuring a flattering square back and soft v neck front, pair this summer stunner with your favourite sandals.
