Dare we say it? Dress season is finally here. Cue the sigh of relief. As we excitedly store away our cashmere jumpers and puffer jackets in favour of light cardigans and denim jackets, the question on everyone's mind is - inevitably - what are the best dresses to shop this season, and where can we shop them? Thankfully, we have all the answers.
From gingham summer dresses to figure-shaping bandage dresses, which recently made their comeback (thanks Y2K), there is no event that a dress can't do. Even if you're a power suit or jeans-and-a-top kind of person, it's likely you'll have owned one dress in your lifetime to pull out when the occasion rises. Special occasions such as weddings, birthdays and christenings seem to launch a never-ending search for a dress that can cycle in and out of events effortlessly, a task that can prove challenging, to put it mildly. But not anymore.
Best Dresses At a Glance:
What are trending dresses for women right now?
Right now, there is breakout search on Google for puffball dresses – the Insta-famous Amy Lynn style has been named by global fashion search platform Lyst as one of the hottest products for 2024.
Midi dresses also still remain a wardrobe staple, while slip dresses are a timeless choice. Don't forget to explore the charm of big sleeves and asymmetrical hemlines for an added touch of flair.
So, whether you favour a floral maxi dress or look for '90s minimalism in a simple slip, there are some of the dresses that you always need on your radar (and in your wardrobe). From mini to maxi, here are all the best dresses you should invest in now.
Shop: Best Summer Dresses
The best summer dresses are light and comfortable. Look for breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or rayon in neutral or pastel shades. Opt for loose-fitting silhouettes with adjustable straps for maximum comfort.
This puffball dress has been named by global fashion search platform Lyst as one of the hottest products for 2024 in its Q2 Lyst Index.
www2.hm.com
We expect this dress from H&M will be the sell-out item this season.
Shop: Best Holiday Dresses
On holiday you want to show up and show out in your best garments. We suggest vibrant colours or playful patterns to match the destination. Consider statement maxi dresses with a flattering silhouettes and fabrics that can withstand the heat.
www.zara.com
This tie-dye dress is a moment, pair it with gold accessories to finish the look.
www.cos.com
Abstract prints are always a good shout. This one from COS has a halter neckline, low cut back and a cascading asymmetric hem.
www.theoutnet.com
This is a dress you can keep pulling out every summer.
Shop: Best Wedding Guest Dresses
As a wedding guest, ensure your attire aligns with the dress code. Once that’s sorted, opt for a dress that is both elegant and comfortable enough to last through the ceremony and reception. Consider midi dresses in soft hues or jewel tones for a sophisticated look.
meshki.co.uk
Doesn't this remind you of How To Lose A Guy In 10 days?
www.selfridges.com
House of CB know how to create a show-stopper. The quality is always and amazing and figure hugging.
Shop: Best Shirt Dresses
The beauty of ashirt dress is that it is a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down. You can pair with a strappy heel, some cool trainers a blazer or a cardigan, depending on the vibe you're going for. We advise looking for a dress with a flattering fit and high-quality fabric.
www.zara.com
Linen is a cool choice for the summer - no pun intended. Style with some ballet flats or a simple heel.
www.cos.com
Perfect for transitioning from spring to summer, the shirt dress is a wardrobe staple.
Shop: Best Everyday Dresses
An everyday dress should be just that, perfect for everyday. It should be comfortable, practical, and easy to layer. Choose dresses in neutral colours, stretchy fabrics and pockets for added convenience. Pair it with trainers or a ankle boot for a casual look.
www.marksandspencer.com
Comfortable, breezy and a dream to wear everyday.
www.nobodyschild.com
Everyday dresses don't have to be plain, inject some flair with a bit of stripe.
Shop: Best Floral Dresses
Floral print is a very popular choice of pattern and is suitable for various occasions. Choose a dress with a flattering silhouette, and style with neutral accessories to let the dress do the talking.
emiliawickstead.com
This dress is very demure, very mindful (if you know, you know). Style with silver accessories.
www.anthropologie.com
This brilliant satin number from Anthropologie is good enough to accompany you on holiday. It's already selling out in some sizes, so be quick.
www.whistles.com
The Kimmy dress is so '60s, it hurts. The perfect choice for a picnic in the park, or impending summer BBQs.
Shop: Best Party Dresses
When choosing a party dress, look for fun patterns, sequins, or unique details to make a statement. Consider your venue and theme: shorter, playful dresses for casual parties, and elegant, longer gowns for formal events likecocktail parties.
www.boden.co.uk
A shift dress is key for the hottest days of the year, and this navy patterned dress from Boden is our favourite pick. Pair with your favourite sandals, or a pair of white sneakers.
rixolondon.com
There may be no wardrobe finished without a classic Rixo dress, the brand known for its prints. It's no surprise that the Sandrine dress is one of the bestsellers, with a classic v-neckline and navy polka dot that will see you from summer parties to winter weddings.
www.jigsaw-online.com
This dress in navy but could very easily pass as a black. The back detail is everything.
Shop: Best Black Dresses
Everyone needs an LBD or a good black outfit its a wardrobe essential. From sexy to sophisticated there’s a black dress for everyone.
www.farfetch.com
Serious events, require serious dresses and this is one of them.
clubllondon.com
Save Salome for those formal events. This midi dress has been made with premium brushed jersey for figure-flattering comfort.
www.cos.com
If you're wondering how to incorporate black into your summer outfits, take notes from COS's dropped waist flowy midi dress
Shop: Best Work Dresses
Following your dress code is important here. For professional environments opt for a midi dress that hits at the knee or calf, perfect for work, weekends, or evening events.
www.karenmillen.com
Looking for a suitable work dress that will last you for years to come? Karen Millen's your best guess. The structured crepe belted midi dress simply screams sophistication.
www.marksandspencer.com
This dress means serious business.
Shop: Best Occasion Dresses
Consider the formality of the event: opt for long, flowing gowns for black-tie occasions and knee-length dresses for semi-formal gatherings. Seek out luxurious fabrics like chiffon, satin, or lace, and don’t hesitate to add some sparkle with sequins or beading. To tie in everything wear elegant accessories and heels.
www.net-a-porter.com
This a dress with special occasion written all over it.
www.abercrombie.com
This is short puffed hem dress is a special piece, in fact it's a Abercrombie & Fitch bestseller.
www.stories.com
Brown is arguably the most versatile colour of them all, just as suitable for autumn and winter as it is for spring and summer. Add the Other Stories's cap-sleeve satin midi to your wardrobe for a dress you can wear all year long.
Shop: Best Maxi Dresses
Long, flowing, and effortlessly chic, maxi dressesare perfect for all year around (dependent on the style of the dress).
www.meandem.com
The brand adored by Kate Middleton and co, this ME+EM knit dress is the best-seller of the week.
shop.mango.com
Mango's sheer catalogue of dresses is impressive, and this velvet sage green dress may just be the brand's best kept secret.
Shop: Best Midi Dress
Midi dresses are the sweet spot between mini and maxi.
www.stories.com
Featuring a unique abstract print and a flattering boat neck, this is a winner for spring/summer season.
www.whitestuff.com
The perfect holiday dress doesn't exi-... Say hello to the Dulcie midi from White Stuff, which is practically begging to accompany you to your next Greek beach holiday, city break or UK staycation.
Shop: Best Plus Size Dresses
Plus sizedresses come in a wide range of styles and sizes. Find the perfect dress to celebrate your curves. Fit-and-flare or wrap dresses are your best friends. Look for stretchy fabrics, vibrant colours, and strategic seaming. V-necks elongate, cap/3/4 sleeves balance. Midi or maxi for elegance.
Ganniwww.ganni.com
This dress is essentially a rendition of Ganni peplum top that's already been seen everywhere. Pair with cowboy boots, and you've got yourself a signature summer look.
Net-A-Porterwww.net-a-porter.com
DÔEN is a celeb loved brand and has been seen on the likes of Selena Gomez and Kaia Gerber. Its Ischia midi dress has ethereal puffed sleeves and shirred panels down either side to help flatter your figure. The intricate tie neckline is also relatively modest too.
Shop: Best Petite Dresses
Fit-and-flare and sheath dresses are ideal choices for petite women as they accentuate the figure without overwhelming the frame. High waistlines and vertical details like seams or stripes create the illusion of added height. To further elongate the body, opt for shorter hemlines such as above-the-knee or midi lengths.
www.nobodyschild.com
The Sandra dress by Nobody's child is essentially summer in a dress.
www.phase-eight.com
You can never go wrong with a denim dress, Phase Eight has hit the nail on the head with this little ruffled number.
Marina Avraam is the Deputy Commercial Content Editor for Grazia. Hobbies include (but not limited to) finding the best designer dupes, buying every iteration of the adidas gazelles and listening to celeb podcasts every hour of every day.