Each year when the long-awaited summer season arrives, lusciously blooming hibiscus prints, sunset colourways and palm leaf motifs adorn the figures of fashion veterans.
From Dua Lipa and Emily Ratajkowski, to Maya Jama and Paloma Elsesser, the style-savvy know that when temperatures rise to swathe themselves with a tropical print dress or two.
Considering the UK’s sun-deprived state, it’s no surprise that Brits look to brands that sit outside of its gloomy borders. Luxury labels such as Alemais, Farm Rio, Etro and Louisa Ballou present tropical themes, whether Mediterranean vistas, colour-filled Caribbean panoramas or flourishing oceanscapes.
Lest we forget Versace and all its creative director Donatella has done to champion tropical themes. From Jennifer Lopez’ iconic jungle-print dress that was responsible for the creation of Google Images to the designer’s collaboration with Dua Lipa for the brand’s La Vacanza collection (think aqua-pink tones, gilded baroque detailing and starfish galore), there’s no denying that the Italian powerhouse deserves a special mention.
However, if budget is cause for concern, fear not. The high street has cleverly caught onto the annual hankering for Mustique a la mode. Take Mango x Siedres’ latest collaboration, for example, which is brimming with Amazonian graphics and seashore charm.
The same goes for classic surf brands such as Roxy, Billabong and Quicksilver. Trust us, a hibiscus print is always nearby.
Step into Club Tropicana with a playful tropical print dress to set your eyes on before summer.
Shop now
Mango x Siedres Printed Halter Gown
The hottest new collaboration on the market, Mango x Siedres’ summer-ready drop is replete with tropical themes. This halterneck caught our eye on account of the large hibiscus graphic print and slinky silhouette.
Buy now £59.99, Mango
By Anthropologie Asymmetrical Floral Midi Dress
Plus-size collections tend to be limited, but not Anthropologie’s. The brand’s stunning Asymmetrical Floral Midi Dress is topping our wishlist. Available in plus sizes only, the tropical number will accentuate your curves thanks to the asymmetrical hemline and floral embellishment.
Buy now £198.00, Anthropologie
Camilla Capri Me Silk Crepe Mini Dress
Disappear into a world where the mojitos never stop flowing and the sand is always golden. Camilla’s silk crepe mini dress will transport you to sun-drunk getaways, especially when paired with raffia wedges and a large cocktail in hand.
Buy now £389.00, Farfetch
Kitri Talitha Pastel Floral Knit Midi Dress
Available to pre-order in time for summer, Kitri’s Talitha dress is a serene marriage of tropical and timelessness. A fringed hem nods to Seventies flair, while a cream backdrop and funky pastel florals ooze contemporary charm.
Buy now £225.00, Kitri
Alemais Pink Pinball Linen Midi Dress
Swathe yourself in sartorial sunshine with Alemais. The vibrant brand is revered for its use of eye-popping prints and glorious hues, as this delightful sun dress demonstrates.
Buy now £475.00, Browns
Farm Rio Gathered Linen-Blend Maxi Dress
Lightweight linen is a summer must - and Farm Rio’s quirky take on the classic material is a sight to behold. Dramatically blooming floral straps complete with drawstring ties create the focal point of this ethereal frock. The soft gathering around the neckline and voluminous silhouette promise airy bliss in the hottest of climates.
Buy now £310.00, Net-A-Porter
Whistles Palm Floral Carmel Dress
Best paired with a tan, the warming marigold hue, back cut-out and waist-enhancing fit are just a handful of attractive features belonging to Whistles’ sophisticated yet sassy midi. Note the gentle tropical petals and subtle ruching across the bust.
Buy now £99.00, John Lewis
Louisa Ballou Heatwave Starfish-Print Mesh Mini Dress
You may have spotted this dress on your Instagram feed as it’s already a hit with some of the most stylish names on the platform. It is designed by Louisa Ballou, a Central Saint Martins graduate who draws inspiration from her seaside upbringing. This starfish design not only instantly transports you to golden sands but has been hand-painted by the designer herself set on Italian mesh. Alter the asymmetric hem with the toggle side.
Buy now £247.00, The Outnet
Rixo Brandon Midi Dress
Rixo reigns supreme in the holiday dress department. Luxury lovers will coo over the brand's salmon pink Brandon Midi Dress, which showcases a Pucci-esque floral print, exquisite beading across the bust and a timeless square neck.
Buy now £625.00, Rixo
Reformation Avielle Dress
Reformation’s Avielle dress fuses party-girl glamour with retro tropical motifs. A mini black silhouette is elevated by a halterneck design and a playful postcard graphic print.
Buy now £128.00, Reformation
