Finding the perfect spring/summer dress that you can continue to wear year upon year can be quite hard, right? As my style has developed, the more I have come to understand what shapes suit me, and which shapes I should avoid. The same with colours. I might only be 21 years old, but I’ve gone through A LOT of dresses in my lifetime – especially in the last couple years. Nowadays, I do think its become very common to fall in love with a dress in a shop, or online, and then completely go off it once you’ve worn it a few times. But like most of Gen Z, I am really wanting to try and limit my personal waste by investing in pieces that are going to last a lifetime in my wardrobe, and that I can count on for years to come.
With this being said, I thought it would be useful for me to scout the hottest dresses online right now and come up with an edit for you guys in preparation for Hot Girl Summer (obvs). I decided to round up the best mini, midi and maxi dresses, as well as a handful on the higher end of the market (if you’re prepared to spend a little more), and I also thought I’d select a few that I think would make for the perfect June 21st party dress.
I’ve already shared this wonderful nu-in fashion knitted maxi
dress (ad) on my Instagram a couple of months ago, but I still can’t get enough of it, so had to share some close ups with you all. It is the perfect transitional maxi dress, and ideal for day drinks in the sun or an evening meal out. It is definitely in my top 10 fave wardrobe staples at the moment. And I absolutely need the beige version too (ad).
Mid-spring is a great time to start purchasing your spring/summer dresses as there is always a huge variety to choose from. I’d suggest sticking to classic styles and monochromatic designs as these are the ones you will fall back on every summer.
As most of you know, I am a huge lover of Zara and their current collection of summer dresses is out of this world. I mean, they are serving serious designer looks on a budget and I’m SO here for it. You can view the collection here, but one of the ones I am most excited about is their Linen Midi Strappy Back Dress. It is simply stunning and the back detail… I have no words. I think we all need this one in our lives ladies.
Keep reading below to find out my top summer dress picks of 2021.
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The Mini Dress
Wether it’s classic black, or a pop of colour – the mini dress is a chic way to add a bit of fun to any outfit. I love to pair mini dresses with chunky white trainers or platform converse for a day time look, before switching to a classic barely there heel for an night out. You can jazz up a mini dress by opting for a backless, or ruffled style, as this will automatically add a more feminine touch to your look. My favourite mini at the moment is the Black Ruffled Skater Dress (ad) from Lorna Luxe’s Collection with In The Style – Lorna’s collection is a great one to check out if you love the ‘French Girl’ style; i.e. very classic, elegant silhouettes and chic, pretty prints.
The Midi Dress
The Midi Dress – aka, the everyday dress. It wasn’t until last year that I owned my first midi dress, which now I find pretty embarrassing. But If I’m honest with you, I always saw the midi dress as the ideal dress for the older generations and never thought of it as being ‘cool’ or ‘on trend’. God knows why, because midi dresses are now up there with my all time faves. They are such a stylish staple to have in your wardrobe – practical, versatile and the answer to any outfit crisis. When it comes to buying midi dresses in the summer, I usually stick to simple styles that could be re-styled for the autumn season too. For example, a camisole midi is always a great option as you can pair this with a cute tee in the autumn to layer up. Alternatively, white midi’s are always great for the summer time as these never get old, and are guaranteed to be the perfect partner to your fave sandals.
The Maxi Dress
To all my tall girls out there, this ones for you. If you’re looking for an effortless, elegant dress that is going to compliment your figure – here’s your answer. Modest, sophisticated and sexy, the maxi dress will make you look put together with very minimal attention. In the summer, I love styling a maxi with a heeled sandal, mini bag and a pair of all black sunnies for a Parisian off-duty kind of look. You can’t really go wrong with a maxi. Make sure the neckline is flattering to your body shape, and go for a design that makes you feel good. You should always feel comfortable and confident in a maxi dress. Currently, I’m loving this knitted sage green maxi from Missguided – I love the halter neck style and this would be lovely paired with tan, black or white accessories. Such a steal too.
The Luxe Dress
If you’re wanting to spend a little more on a summer dress this season, then two of the brands I would highly recommend checking out would be Saint and Sofia, and & Other Stories. If you have the budget, then investing in premium styles really will benefit you in the long run. Play smart by sticking to classic, timeless styles, and instead focus on your accessories to elevate a look. I am loving the blazer dress trend at the moment, and the quality of this camel & Other Stories dress (ad) looks incredible. I am also loving the shirt dress craze right now, as these are so great to dress up or down.
The June 21st Dress
If you’re not amongst 99% of the population who are saving this date for when the UK lifts all of its restrictions, then skip ahead. But for those who are planning to party hard on June 21st, you might want to listen in. After being in lockdown for over a year now, the last thing we want is anyone, and I repeat anyone, going out and celebrating in an underwhelming, bland dress. It’s just not happening ladies. If you’re struggling to find the perfect dress for cocktails with the girls, I’d suggest checking out Zara, ASOS and Missguided. Obviously we won’t be going out without a tan, so make sure you show that off! I’m thinking mini dress, hot pink, clear heels, and a little black purse. Or, black blazer dress, black heels, black bag and of course, a black winged liner look. As Karl Lagerfeld once said, one is never overdressed or underdressed with a little black dress.
What is your fave style of dress? I’d love to know in the comments below!
To see how I style my fave dresses this season, head over to my Instagram and TikTok, and don’t forget to give me a follow – have a lovely day everyone!
Image taken by the lovely Shana Howley.
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