In Praise of the Summer Dress

When I was young, for much of the summer, I wore cotton shift dresses, made by my mother. She used the same pattern on different fabrics. My other key wardrobe staples were shorts and t-shirts. Getting dressed was easy and speedy. Apart from underwear, a pair of sandals was the only other item added. 

This year, the warmer summer weather came earlier and with it, the opportunity to wear a summer dress. I find it freeing not to have to layer up, however, it is harder to not appear too casual. This is where your accessories come into their own, ensuring that you will still have the impact required. 

Because they’re available in so many styles, shapes, prints, colours, dresses are regularly the choice of attire for summer occasions, such as weddings, race days, graduations, more casual barbecues and bank holiday fun. 

Summer dresses offer:

Comfort and Ease 
Summer dresses are usually made from lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or viscose, which are great for keeping cool in the heat.

Versatility
A dress can be dressed up, if worn with heels or a blazer, and down when worn with flats and a casual jacket. This makes them suitable for occasions from casual outings to more formal events. 

Effortless Style 
A summer dress can create an instant look, requiring minimal styling. Adding accessories is all it takes. 

Easy to Pack 
Because they are usually lightweight and easy to pack, they are ideal for travel and vacations. 

A Symbol of Summer 
Summer dresses are often associated with the warm weather, sunshine, and carefree attitude of summer, evoking a sense of nostalgia and happiness. 

Here’s my guide to the best of this season’s dresses. They are sorted by colour season to make it easy for you. 

Summer Dress Edit - Click to View