I'm Now All About Dresses—These Are 20 I've Shortlisted For Summer
Although the current temperature is a little chillier than we would like, the sweet taste of summer is on the horizon, particularly where fashion is concerned. As we edge towards warmer days, we’re beginning to see new collections override past season sales and summer pieces weft in amongst knits. And as a dress girl, I’m most excited about the dresses on offer, of which there are plenty.
Marisa Martins wears white Jonathan Simkhai dress
Perhaps the biggest (and most wearable) trend for summer 2023 is the maxi. At one point it was mutually exclusive with holidaying but now it’s a firm favourite among editors, influencers and celebs, whether they're wearing it in the city or on the beach. There's also a myriad of pretty, puff-sleeved styles, as well as floaty white dresses, classic floral iterations and broderie styles made for sunny days, of course.
But you needn't wait until August to get your dress dose. High-street brands and contemporary designers have crafted some of the prettiest dresses ahead of summer. So, if you’re looking for some inspo, keep scrolling for 20 of the most gorgeous dresses I’ve seen so far this season.
Shop My Edit of the Best New-In Dresses:
There's something so Parisian about this beautiful shirred midi dress. You could even add knee-high boots and a blazer in winter to make it work all year round.
In my eyes, no summer wardrobe is complete without a fabulous black dress. This bandeau style is just stunning.
The brand bring this dress out every year in new patterns because it's just that popular! Dress it up with heeled sandals or down with trainers.
If you're looking to make an investment this summer, look no further than this show-stopping white cotton-poplin dress.
We love The Vampire's Wife for event dressing. This is the perfect dress for a summer wedding or garden party.
I'm in love with this linen halter style from Reiss. Perfect for a summer date night or holiday.
Too pretty to not include. And wait until you see the back!
I love the puff sleeves and gorgeous green hue of this midi.
The dress all our editors love.
There are tons of way to wear this midi. Don't believe me? See for yourself here.
Another floral midi that you'll rely on year after year.
Perfect for the office, an evening out, garden party or weekend.
A knitted dress is just as useful in summer as it is in winter. Add chunky sandals and a linen blazer for an easy yet chic look.
Next Up: Spring/Summer 2023 Fashion Trends: 21 Expert-Approved Looks You Need to See
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Avalon Afriyie is a freelance writer and storyteller based in London. She specialises in sustainable fashion, health and the narratives of marginalised communities.
She has a background in fashion show production and styling, having previously worked on The Clothes Show and with the Lyst Group. Since graduating in 2013 with a BA (Hons) in English and contemporary media, she’s worked as a feature writer for an independent publication and a contributor for Quill’s creator network. She now marries her passion for words and style, writing for some of the most esteemed fashion and lifestyle publications, Who What Wear UK and Stylist.
Avalon also provides copywriting services, creative consultancy, and visual media for independent businesses, including travel guides, interviews, press releases and blog posts. Her work has been featured on Lush, Contiki, Youswim and Ohne.
She spends her days writing to her heart’s content for business and pleasure, shooting on film and dreaming of residing a stone’s throw away from the ocean with her love and a pup (clad in a sweeping frock, of course). She’s currently penning ideas for a book of personal essays and free verse poetry on love, life and the stages in between.
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