as a fashion editor, I’m often asked what my favourite type of apparel is and my unwavering response is dresses. you could say I’m a confessed lover of dresses. so much so that I intentionally halt in my tracks to diversify my wardrobe from time to time. summer is undoubtedly my favourite season for dressing and that’s also when dresses begin to dominate retail sites. admittedly, my style consists of neutral palettes but that isn’t to say there isn’t fun to be had. this season, I’m welcoming muted colours, vibrant yellows and pale blues into the midst. I’ve been assessing the best summer dresses on the market — from svelte column shapes, courtesy of faithfull, to lightweight cotton voiles which speak to slow, coastal holidays. continue reading for eight exceptional and timeless dress options for the bright days ahead.
DÔEN QUIINN MIDI DRESS
dôen + net sustain quinn tie-detailed shirred organic cotton-poplin midi dress, net-a-porter
I own a very similar dôen frock and to date, I consider it one of my best dress investments. it quickly became one of my most worn summer pieces as it’s suitable for myriad occasions and easy to wear. it features dôen’s signature lightweight, semi-sheer fabrication, shirred waist and slightly puffed sleeves.
BASERANGE DANDE DRESS
dande dress in assortment linen cotton rib, baserange
no other brand excels at transitional pieces quite like baserange and its dresses are particularly notable. I’m a firm favourite of the shaw wrap dress and this season's dande dress is equally as distinctive. it’s available in the most exquisite muted sage with reverse button features. it comprises linen and cotton, making it breathable for the warmer months.
SLEEPER ATLANTA DRESS
sleeper + net sustain atlanta off-the-shoulder shirred linen midi dress, net-a-porter
the sleeper atlanta dress has become a steadfast wardrobe hero and I’ve seen myriad ways to style it – from casual beach wear to evening wear styled with heeled sandals and jewels.
MANGO A-LINE DRESS
the sculpted top and fluted skirt trend has landed on the high street and it’s often available in natural fabrications. the elasticated vest lends a sculpted feel, juxtaposing the free-flowing, full skirting. pair it with everything from flip-flops and mules to heeled sandals.
DISSH GIGI CHALK LINEN DRESS
gigi chalk linen midi dress, dissh
dissh is becoming one of my favourite brands to shop for affordable linen and the gigi midi dress is one of my most worn dresses of late. belt it in at the waist and pair it with heeled mules, for an elevated styling option.
FAITHFULL BIARRITZ DRESS
faithfull biarritz lace-trimmed silk crepe de chine maxi dress, net-a-porter
this longline frock from faithfull the brand immediately caught my attention as it’s so unique compared to its usual free-flowing, billowing styles. the delicate cut-out placement and soft hue make this shape all the more special.
LEMAIRE TWISTED COTTON DRESS
lemaire twisted cotton-jersey midi dress, net-a-porter
between the muted yellow tone, twisted hem and cinched-in waist, this lemaire dress is sheer perfection. it’s remained at the top of my wish list for the past couple of months.
CAROLINA HERRERA RUCHED DRESS
carolina herrera ruched appliquéd striped cotton-poplin halterneck midi dress, net-a-porter
whilst I normally enjoy understated dresses, I can’t help but enjoy the bold floral appliqué carolina herrera offers atop slim stripes. the cotton fabrication adds a casual touch, meaning it’s one to suit picnics and weddings alike. it’s all dependent on the footwear.
avalon is a london-born editor and creative writer based in paris. since graduating with an english degree in 2013, she’s written for some of the uk’s most esteemed fashion and lifestyle publications, including who what wear, refinery29, eliza and stylist.
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