I Have A Social Summer Lined Up – These Karen Millen Dresses Are All I’ll Be Wearing

The exact dress that was spotted on The Princess of Wales when she visited the Royal Surrey County Hospital Maternity Unit back in 2022. This dress features a notched neckline, elbow-length sleeves and pressed pleats on the lower half. Perfect for weddings, the races, or to keep in your wardrobe and wear forever (as the name suggests).

Now this dress is definitely one for a special occasion. Made from a luxurious and glossy satin, the contrast dress drapes effortlessly and flatters anyone with its long length. The tie neck detailing creates a subtle focal point (to make sure all eyes are on you) and to add a touch of femininity to the piece.

This dress is a Karen Millen bestseller, for good reason. Great for summer dinner dates or cocktails on a rooftop in a sun-drenched city, the military-inspired mini is just as much edgy as it is sophisticated. The structured silhouette that features a high buttoned neck, cap sleeves and plenty of pleating detailing is bound to look fantastic on anyone.

Maybe this one isn't the best to wear to a wedding (that isn't yours), but it is great for garden parties, the races and even Wimbledon. The open back is a nice touch that will also help with regulating heat on particularly hot days. Meanwhile the ivory shade is perfect for pairing with a pair of black strappy heels, a black clutch and some bold jewellery.

There's one thing the one shoulder dress offers - drama. With a Greek-inspired draped design, this dress has one-shoulder strap that draws the eye to its asymmetrical neckline. Its skirt elegantly cascades to the floor, making it perfect for those special events and any formal plans you have lined up this summer.

For a more casual event, this utilitarian style dress could be the one. Made to accentuate, the corseted bodice cinches in the waist, while the ribbon detail also aims to flatter and give the dress an added flair. We've seen similar earthy tones from brands like Celine, Stella McCartney and Givenchy.

Thought feather had done the rounds? Think again. Designers like Chanel, Gucci and Valentino all featured feathers in their ready-to-wear collections at the end of 2023, so they're certainly still on-trend. Regardless, this dress features a timeless silhouette, crafted from a stretch crepe fabric and finished with a vivacious feather neckline.

Channel Kate Moss from the 90's and opt for this sensational satin dress for your summer events. With a round neck, sleeveless style and maxi hemline you can guarantee it's never going to go out of style. Plus, satin is a great material to wear in the warmer months as it's flowy and breathable.

There's something slightly nostalgic about a shirt dress, but they are a capsule wardrobe staple. Featuring a delicate broderie anglaise cotton, the mini shirt dress feels almost romantic. Although, again, it's probably not the best choice to wear to a wedding, this dress feels extremely summer-appropriate.

Another satin dress on the list, this time it's in a zesty green shade. For a more modest look that's not going to be too hot, it has a round-neck bodice with flattering tucks and a fitted waist. As the dress itself is quite vibrant, it's best paired with strappy heels, a neutral bag, and of course a pair of statement sunglasses.

If you're planning on going to a summer wedding or a garden party, you're going to want to look here. A captivating piece that blends floral detailing with whimsical elements, its applique flowers creates a gorgeous visual contrast against the smooth satin fabric. Plus, its design means it can be easily styled up or down depending on where you want to wear it.

If a mini length is more your style, this shirt dress hits the perfect length on your thigh without showing too much, while still leaving plenty of leg on show. The ivory colour looks great on all skin colours, completed by a navy stripe that's almost nautical. Pair it with a chunky wedge espadrilles and sunnies for a chic daytime look, or dress it up with statement jewellery for an evening soirée.