This Unexpected High Street Brand Is Responsible For My Favourite Summer Dresses

Scrolling through Abercrombie & Fitch's dress selection feels like striking gold.

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by Emma Richardson |
Updated on

The feeling of excitement when discovering the perfect summer dress is truly unmatched - especially when you begin to realise all the styling possibilities it carries. Off-duty days running errands? Check. A suitcase non-negotiable for that long-awaited Mediterranean escape? Absolutely. That’s why, when I’m in search for a summer wardrobe hero I know I’ll reach for time and time again, I turn to Abercrombie & Fitch. A single scroll through the brand’s dress collection frequently feels like striking gold.

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©@vivianeaudi

Whether it’s a floor-sweeping satin dress, or a delicately ditsy midi reminiscent of Dôen’s celebrity-adored staples, Abercrombie routinely delivers on the dress front. It’s little wonder the style set have become devoted fans of the high street label’s offering, and lately, they’ve been gravitating towards one particular flowing midi, thanks to its trend-led patterns (gingham especially), romantic prints, and wonderfully flattering cinched waistline. The standout style in question? The Dipped-Waist Smocked Midi Dress.

©@libsfaulk

Abercrombie & Fitch, Dipped-Waist Smocked Midi DressAbercrombie & Fitch

Fitting the previously outlined criteria for a standout summer dress - being incredibly versatile across occasions and possessing endless styling potential - the smocked midi has won over the fashion crowd. But its aesthetic appeal isn’t the only reason it’s flourishing in popularity, its breezy, throw-on-and-go styling credentials (as with many of Abercrombie’s cult favourites) are practically unmatched. When it comes to footwear, you're at the mercy of the weather - rely on toe-ring sandals for a balmy beachside evening out, or opt for A-List approved trainers for a day in the city - think Onitsuka Tigers or Spezials.

But there's a lot more where that came from. We've done the hard work for you (though browsing wonderful summer dresses is hardly a gruelling task, I'll be honest) and rounded up the best Abercrombie & Fitch dresses we could find below. Warm weather dressing just got a whole lot easier - and chicer.

Shop: Abercrombie & Fitch's Best Dresses

Abercrombie & Fitch, Giselle Drop-Waist Maxi DressAbercrombie & Fitch

The Giselle Maxi is without a doubt one of the chicest dresses in Abercrombie’s line-up, available in two other stunning iterations - a sunshine-yellow hue and a green patterned print. With drop-waist silhouettes having a serious moment right now, this staple is set to become a go-to for fashion insiders everywhere.

Abercrombie & Fitch, Plunge Cowl Back Maxi DressAbercrombie & Fitch

Perfect for more formal occasions, this plunge cowl back maxi is a top contender for black-tie events. Its sophisticated silhouette and dramatic back detail make it an exceptional choice for those moments when something chic and stylish is essential to the dress code.

Abercrombie & Fitch, V-Neck Linen-Blend Mini DressAbercrombie & Fitch

This dress is perfect if you want to nail two of the season's most popular trends: butter yellow and gingham.

Abercrombie & Fitch, Emerson Poplin Puff Sleeve Midi DressAbercrombie & Fitch

The Emerson dress has earned its place as a wardrobe favourite in recent years, thanks to its devoted following among the fashion set. One of the most versatile dresses around, it’s available in an array of colours and patterns, with or without straps, and in mini, midi, and maxi lengths.

Abercrombie & Fitch, Mila Strapless Midi DressAbercrombie & Fitch

Another gingham number, but this time in red. This picnic-style strapless dress is incredibly pretty, yet equally as chic and versatile, perfect for everything from casual days out to summer soirées. Pair with nude toe-ring sandals for a coastal getaway this summer.

Abercrombie & Fitch, Emerson Drop-Waist Halter Mini DressAbercrombie & Fitch

Another Emerson dress, but this time it’s a mini, halter neck style, and, unlike its other versions, features an adorable strawberry print. Pair it with cool trainers and a wicker basket for a cottage-core inspired look that’s perfect for the summer months.

Abercrombie & Fitch, Puff Sleeve Midi DressAbercrombie & Fitch

A classic puffed sleeve dress is a necessity when it comes to balmy weather dressing, and it’s the perfect style for any upcoming wedding plans you have during the nuptial season. With its feminine silhouette and timeless appeal, it’s sure to be a standout at any celebration.

Abercrombie & Fitch, Cowl Neck Draped Maxi DressAbercrombie & Fitch

A cowl neck is the epitome of elegance, and this draped maxi is no exception. Wear with mule heels for evenings out or silver sandals for the ultimate sophisticated look - its fluid silhouette and refined draping make it an easy choice for a night out.

Abercrombie & Fitch, Squareneck Bubble Hem Denim Mini DressAbercrombie & Fitch

Bubble hemlines have made a comeback this year, and we're seeing the '80s staple on everything from tops to dresses. This bubble hemline mini dress is a fail-safe if you're looking to nail the trend, and features a flattering square neckline in an indigo-wash denim shade for a slightly grungy look.

Abercrombie & Fitch, High Neck Bubble Hem Mini DressAbercrombie & Fitch

For a slightly more sophisticated take on the square-neck bubble hem dress, look to this black high-neck version that’ll take you from errand runs to date nights - with just a change of shoes. Available in three colour ways, including this sleek black, a cherry-red hue, and a playful ditsy strawberry print.

Image credit: @libsfaulk, @themilleraffect and @louisemontgomery

Emma Richardson is a fashion commerce writer for Grazia. She was previously a fashion and beauty commerce writer for Heat and Closer, and has contributed digital content for a variety of lifestyle brands. Emma finds much of her inspiration in celebrity style, with Sienna Miller often being a major influence, and loves a pair of ballet pumps and a trusted trench coat.

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