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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Lifestyle
Saskia Kemsley

Best girls’ dresses 2023: from ditsy florals to denim

If your child is into the whole princesses thing, then you’ve likely spent a good amount of time trawling the internet for a frock or two.

It can be hard to find a dress that you know your child will want to wear, and one that will last them until their next growth spurt. The battle to get your little one fashioning something they actually like is daily, and removing this challenge at the start of every morning will play a large factor when it comes to choosing their seasonal clothing. Pay attention to their interests - be it fairies or florals, the colours they gravitate towards and match your virtual basket accordingly.

But perhaps most importantly, a dress needs to be comfortable enough for your littl'un to run around, jump, dance and play all day. Breathability is therefore a key factor to look out for, no matter the occasion they’ll be wearing the dress for.

Whether you’re in the market for something casual and cotton, or occasion wear made from chiffon, we’ve rounded up a selection of the best dresses for your child.

Bird Print Tiered Dress (3-13 Yrs)

This flowing, tiered dress by Fatface is made from 100 per cent cotton, and is therefore 100 per cent breathable, and totally comfortable. A British brand making sustainable product ranges for the whole family, if you’re looking for a frock that will last, this is the one for you.

The various shades of navy and blue are absolutely stunning, while the subtly ruched long-sleeves allow for a no-mess, no-fuss puffy look that won’t get caught on anything during playtime.

Buy now £24.00, M&S

John Lewis Kids' Gingham Tiered Long Sleeve Dress, Black

Same, same, but different. This tiered gingham dress is 58 per cent cotton, 40 per cent polyester and two per cent elastane – which will give it that extra bit of stretch in the essential areas.

A soft yet durable fit, we think your little one will feel like an ultra-cool rock chick in this dress.

Buy now £16.00, John Lewis

Angel & Rocket Kids' Alexis Floral Tiered Dress, Cobalt

If you find your littl’un is always wanting to dress like their mum, we think this versatile dress by Angel & Rocket will have them twirling the day away in no time. The tiered, ruffle look alongside the panelled collar make the dress bang on trend, and honestly something the ES Best team would want to wear.

Buy now £34.00, John Lewis

Long Sleeve Denim Dress

Denim for days! We know this is another tiered look, but we simply can’t get enough. The three-tiered panels are practical for playtime, made from 100 per cent cotton, and embroidered with some adorable posies. We particularly love the pop of colour in the buttons. The timeless style will be one you pass down to their siblings.

Buy now £37.00, Boden

Onna ombre chiffon dress multi

Though this is an occasion dress, we just know you’ll be battling your princess for permission to wear it on the daily. It has delightful and vibrant ombre print and a handkerchief hem. It’s also designed in an airy chiffon fabric, so they’ll be dancing away without a care in the world.

Buy now £40.00, Monsoon

GIRLS’ STRIPY TUBE KNIT DRESS WITH 3/4-LENGTH SLEEVES

Who doesn’t love a good t-shirt dress? The three-quarter length sleeves on this effortlessly chic number from French label Petit Bateau are practical and comfy. The brand’s iconic pinstripes adorn this piece from the round neckline to the gathered skirt.

Buy now £27.00, Petit Bateau

Ditsy Floral Broderie Collar Dress (1-7 Years)

Smart enough for when an occasion calls, but comfy to wear everyday, this adorable ditsy dress by Tu is a winner. The broderie collar won’t get in the way, but will certainly make your kiddo look like they’ve come direct from fashion week.

Buy now £12.00, Tu

Girls Pink Floral Long Sleeve Longline Dress (4-13yrs)

For the little one that loves a pop of colour, this cartoon-esque daisy print dress will make a vibrant addition to their wardrobe. It is made from 100 per cent cotton and features an elasticated bodice and cuffs to keep it well-fitted. You simply can never go wrong with florals.

Buy now £7.00, Matalan

Coast Girls Tiered Heart Textured Dress

Puffy sleeves and love hearts all over – this is certainly a dress fit for a princess. Though made from organza, this dress is comfortably lined and wonderfully airy. Match it with a cute pair of black boots for the full look with a touch of edge.

Buy now £39.50, Debenhams

Cotton Sleeveless Ruffle Dress

Worn on its own in the summer, or with a long-sleeved base layer and tights in the winter, you’ll get bang for your buck with this versatile cotton dress by La Redoute. The crew-neck, knee-length design provides comfort and breathability, while the ruffles and metallic detailing add a feminine touch.

Buy now £14.00, La Redoute

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