I Just Spent Hours Searching for the Best Summer Minidresses—You're Welcome
We talk a lot about midi and maxi dresses, especially as we fly towards the summer months, but you might have noticed that our mini-dress recommendations are few and far between. This isn't always a conscious choice—frankly, the versatility and comfort offered by longer silhouettes make them an easier and less-risky choice. But, I've recently fallen back in love with mini dresses, and I'm here to tell you why they deserve your attention. Or rather, show you why.
To prepare for the start of the new season, I've spent some time browsing new-in sections and keeping an eye out for styles worth shouting about. On my travels, a selection of mini dresses caught my eye. I've tried out some of the below in-store, but they've also inspired me to rediscover the shorter dresses previously shoved to the back of my wardrobe.
As the temperature rises, so does the temptation to show a little more skin. After all, we've spent the past six months shrouded in layers of wool. Mini dresses are the perfect way to mark the beginning of brighter days by letting the sun hit your legs. If you're worried about thigh-chafing or accidentally flashing your undies, just slip on some bike shorts underneath.
It might sound like a weak argument, but short hemlines are also just fun to float around in. Particularly the more voluminous shapes courtesy of brands like Döen. Since I started wearing mine a few weeks ago (with sheer tights for the time being), I've really enjoyed the new styling options they offer. Plus, they let me show off my favourite shoes where midi dresses usually detract from them.
But I've done enough chatting—scroll on to see the best mini dresses to add to your repertoire, from simple LBDs to holiday-ready iterations.
THE BEST LINEN MINI DRESSES
This timeless silhouette also comes in black, cream and light blue.
THE BEST BLACK MINI DRESSES
Döen is known for its pretty floral dresses, but this black number is arguably more versatile.
You'll be grateful for this flowy dress once the temperatures rise.
This will be one of the most versatile pieces in your wardrobe. Wear it over a turtleneck in the winter months and on its own once the sun comes out.
THE BEST FLORAL MINI DRESSES
This is one of the high street hero's most-popular designs.
I've already spotted this print on various influencers.
THE BEST HOLIDAY MINI DRESSES
The embroidery on this dress is exquisite.
A more affordable option if you need a last-minute holiday dress that won't let you down.
THE BEST EVENING MINI DRESSES
The best of the best when it comes to party dresses.
Think the front is good? Wait until you see the back.
Next Up: The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week
Bébhinn Campbell is an Edinburgh-based fashion and lifestyle writer and editor. She started her first blog at age 14 and went on to intern at print and digital publications in Berlin and London, including Dazed & Confused and Indie magazine.
A job at a fashion startup took Bébhinn from Ireland to Scotland in 2019, where she now works as a freelance journalist and copywriter covering everything from travel and interiors to styling advice. As a contributor to Who What Wear, Bébhinn always keeps her eyes peeled for emerging trends and looks worth writing about. She prides herself on her ability to cut through the noise and identify solid investment buys, exciting new brands and fresh takes on classic design.
In her spare time, Bébhinn enjoys perusing Edinburgh’s best vintage shops, working through her out-of-control book collection and watching dog reels on Instagram.
-
Life Is Short, so Buy the Trendy Sheer Pieces You're Eyeing—30 I'm Obsessed With
You know you want to.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Sabrina Carpenter Wore a $128 Reformation Dress on a Date With Barry Keoghan
And no, it's not sold out yet.
By Eliza Huber
-
Dakota Johnson Wore a Thong-Baring Sheer Dress to the SNL After-Party
Even better, it's vintage Alaïa.
By Eliza Huber
-
The Pretty Shoe Styles Fashion People Are Wearing With Black Dresses
These combinations are so major.
By Taylor Augustin
-
Khaite's the Goal—H&M's the Budget: This Chic $27 Halter Dress Is All You Need
Buy it while it's on sale for Cyber Monday.
By Eliza Huber
-
Run, Don't Walk—Reformation's 35 Prettiest Party Dresses Are Sure to Sell Out
It's not a drill…
By Jasmine Fox-Suliaman
-
If Your Vibe Is Bottega Veneta But Your Budget Is H&M, This $75 Dress Is a Must
Trust me.
By Eliza Huber
-
Excuse Me While I Thrive on 7 of the Chicest Basics From the Nordstrom Fall Sale
The outfit possibilities are endless.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes