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. 

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(Image credit: @_marisamartins_)

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:

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.

Freelance Fashion Editor

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.