When hunting for the perfect summer dress, I'm confronted with quite a few obstacles. As a girl that's relatively petite (read: very very short) finding the perfect dress is sometimes as tedious as trying to win the lottery. They're either too long, too wide or too baggy, and I end up abandoning ship in favour of a pair of jeans. That was, however, till I discovered the beauty of Next dresses.
Next is one of those shops that can seemingly do it all. From wonderful home interiors, to a selection of fragrances that smell just like your designer favourites, the high street hero has become the place to be for just about everything - including wonderful summer dresses.
Best Next Dresses At a Glance:
Maybe you're on the hunt to find 'the' dress - the dress that will take you from sipping cocktails in Santorini, to exploring Bali's beaches, or even just enjoying a picnic in your local park. Picture a dress that can be dressed up with strappy heels and statement jewellery, or dressed down with chunky sandals and a wide-brimmed hat. Versatile, chic, and endlessly wearable, it's about treating yourself to a dress that can do it all.
With hundreds of styles available in petite, regular and tall, you no longer have to panic about finding a dress that actually fits. Shop the best Next summer dresses below that start at just £26.
Shop: The Best Next Dresses
Nextwww.next.co.uk
This little red mini dress is a versatile number you should certainly consider when packing for your next holiday. Wear it for the daytime with some chic sandals and a laidback cap, and mix it up in the evening with a pair of strappy sandals and a gold clutch.
Nextwww.next.co.uk
We're sold on anything that has linen in it this summer. Let's be honest, no other fabric comes close to the comfort and ease linen offers. This dress with a tie back is the epitome of holiday dressing, as it features a super baggy, loose fit too.
Nextwww.next.co.uk
Another linen number from Next, this dress features details like a square neck and exposed seam detailing that make it perfect for a range of occasions. Whether you have a birthday party, wedding or sunset drinks on the agenda, this pink dress is versatile enough to be worn to just about everything.
Nextwww.next.co.uk
One suited to a more formal occasion or a nice dinner out, this stunning navy blue mini dress has a ruffle texture that mimics the undulating patterns of the deep sea. The spaghetti straps also make it look just so chic. For the ultimate cool-girl outfit, partner with some white cowboy boots and a matching bag.
Nextwww.next.co.uk
Another dress that's made from a cooling and breathable linen. The most flattering part of the dress has to be the asymmetric design with two chunky straps is extremely flattering on the shoulders and neckline.
Nextwww.next.co.uk
Part of the Rochelle Humes collection for Next, this dress has a more premium feel (without the premium cost) with its bandeau denim design. This midaxi dress also has a couple of great features; an elasticated back and sticky band inside the bandeau for a secure fit.
Nextwww.next.co.uk
If you're on the hunt for a dress that's beautiful, flowy, and most importantly, summery, this maxi dress is perfect. With a floral print in a rich chocolate brown, this frock is best styled with a pair of tan or brown chunky sandals, a raffia tote, and a large floppy hat if you want to add some drama to the ensemble.
Nextwww.next.co.uk
Perfect as a day dress, this striped number is the epitome of Parisian-chic, with its tie-waist detailing and crewneck collar. To style, add a pair of chunky black and white sandals - maybe even a pair of The Row Ginza Sandals.
Nextwww.next.co.uk
Short and floaty, this pinstriped marvel features a monochrome design that makes it super simple to style. Plus, you can't go wrong with a mini length for the warmer months.
Nextwww.next.co.uk
Made from a breathable cotton blend, this dress features two adjustable thin shoulder straps, along with a ruffled neckline and an elasticated gathered waist. The best part of the blue striped summer dress? The side pockets, that are big enough to put your phone in.
Nextwww.next.co.uk
For a summer dress that's sure to brighten up your day, this striped slip dress features not only just a vibrant print, but also flattering spaghetti straps and a V-neckline. The perfect shoe to wear with this dress is definitely a pair of white fisherman sandals.
Nextwww.next.co.uk
Black isn't necessarily a colour that's synonymous with summer, but this one would be a great choice for a day at the beach. With a slightly low back and a midi-length, it will cover your bikini, and you'll leave the beach looking as chic as you arrived.
How do I style a summer dress?
The most fool proof way of styling a summer dress is with some chunky sandals, they'll make your look a little more interesting and will also keep your feet cool and comfortable during the warmer months. Also think about pairing your summer dress with a wide-brimmed hat to keep the sun rays at bay and add a dash of old Hollywood glamour. Accessorise with a statement necklace, chunky bangle or some oversized sunglasses (or all three) for the chicest look.
Gemma Lavers is a Fashion Writer at Bauer Media, writing for brands like Grazia, heat and Closer. Gemma specialises in all things clothing and enjoys outfit planning (especially for holidays), scrolling social media for the next trend and shopping (probably for a new coat).