24 Throw-On-and-Go Dresses That Require Zero Effort
When the seasons change, and the first glint of summer sunshine hits the UK, I unpack the dresses I stored away the previous winter. It's become a yearly ritual for me to dig out the summer dresses that I'll spend the warmer months swanning around in, and during my most recent unboxing, I noticed a trend in the pieces I rely on for summer: Most of them are loose-fitting dresses.
Thanks to trends like cottagecore, dresses with relaxed shapes are a chic choice with added comfort—my favourite combination. When the sun comes out, these loose-fitting styles just require sandals, a handbag and jewellery to create a full 'fit—no shapewear necessary. Many of my go-to dresses need replacing from years of wear, so I headed online to find the best loose-fitting dresses to see me (and you) through this summer and many more to come.
Despite being loose-fitting, this style isn't dowdy. These billowing dresses create their own silhouette, and their ease and comfort are perfect for warm summer days. In this edit, you'll find classic loose styles along with designs that feature shirred tops, cinched pleating or carefully placed cut-outs for those easing into this exaggerated style.
Not only is this dress style immensely wearable, but it will also be a versatile addition to your wardrobe. Dress up for wedding guest outfits, or style simply for relaxed picnics in the park. Smarter styles will take you from office to evening, whilst cotton and linen dresses can be thrown over beachwear on your next holiday.
Keep reading to discover the best loose-fitting dresses for summer and beyond.
My Edit of the Best Loose-Fitting Dresses
This could definitely be a wedding guest dress or work with sandals for walks along the beach.
No one does the loose-dress trend quite like Taller Marmo.
Lee Matthews gives a masterclass in day-to-night design.
Personally, I fell for this print and the loose sleeve and skirt design.
Play with colourful accessories to make the most of the versatile colour.
This dress took the fashion scene by storm, and it's still a great investment.
The cut of this dress really won me over.
The bold colour and delicate broderie details are harmoniously balanced.
Up next, The Best High-Street Buys We've Seen on Instagram This Month
Florrie embarked on her fashion journey while studying French and History at university. Whilst studying in Aix-en-Provence, she began to write her dissertation on the history of fashion and the influence of Haute Couture, and landed her first role at Harper’s Bazaar. Following this, she interned for various publications including Elle, Grazia and Marie Claire before joining the fashion team at Conde Nast Traveller. There, she contributed to international photoshoots, styled pages and covers, and produced engaging digital content.
During a freelance period, Florrie honed her skills in editorial work in various digital and print publications including Vogue Italy and Departures magazine, as well as styling e-commerce photoshoots and personal shopping. Florrie actively pursues an in-depth understanding of fashion and jewellery, and after styling a jewellery cover shoot at Conde Nast Traveller chose to complete the De Beers Diamond Foundation course. Florrie first joined Who What Wear UK as a freelancer before becoming the Commerce Writer, blending both editorial and commercial content. Now, as the Acting Affiliates Editor, she monitors current trends, new-in styles, wardrobe heroes and how best to style them. In her downtime, Florrie can be found in her hometown of London, usually with a coffee in hand.
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