When it comes to the best summer dresses, floral prints and bold tones might be dominating the high street and celebrity fashion, but Penny Lancaster just proved that simple, neutral midis are a great answer to soaring climes.
Enjoying a quiet getaway on the sunny shores of Portugal, Penny was snapped in the sold-out Claudia dress by Wannabe By. The A-line silhouette drapes beautifully, delivering a floaty fit, making it a solid solution to what to wear in the heat. But, it’s also an effortlessly glamorous piece thanks to the vintage-inspired embroidery and light, neutral tone.
Leaning into an understated look, Penny styled the dress with a pair of Birkenstock’s Madrid big-buckle sandals in a light, pearly colourway. The sandals are a classic, thanks to the minimalist, elegant design, while the statement buckle adds an eye-catching finish.
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Penny's Birkenstock sandals are available in a range of classic, neutral hues and are made from nubuck leather for a flexible and comfortable fit.
Crafted from a blend of viscose and cotton, this loose-fitting dress is light and breezy while also draping off the body beautifully. Like Penny's style, it features vintage-inspired details like lace panelling and subtle embroidery.
With a single strap, slip-on design that evokes a similar look to Penny's Birkenstock sandals, these affordable Next shoes are a great buy for warm-weather dressing.
With an elegant, floor-length design and relaxed shift silhouette, this dress drapes beautifully and is made from 100% linen for a light and breathable touch. Adjustable straps also allow you to play around with the neckline.
Just like Birkenstocks, these sandals are set on a moulded footbed that gives them a laid-back feel, with cork-effect soles emulating the look of the branded design.
This 100% cotton maxi dress is all about simplicity, with its minimalist design offering a loose and flattering shape. The ecru hue is such a sophisticated neutral, and the tone gets a subtle boost from the lightly textured, chiffon material.
In a heatwave, A-line or trapeze silhouettes are standout options for dresses, thanks to their loose-fitting, floaty shapes delivering airflow. Designs like this, that flare out over your lower torso, are great for summer capsule wardrobes, as they minimise the feeling of clammy fabric clinging to skin. Plus, not only will they be comfortable in hot weather, but they're also universally flattering.
Penny’s dress balances out its loose fit with an empire waistline to create a highly flattering silhouette. Its fitted bodice ends just under the bust before flowing into a loose, long skirt, and this allows for an airy finish. The high waistline helps to elongate the body and, by drawing the eye to your smallest part and then down the body, it’s one of the best dresses to hide a tummy, as it elegantly skims.
Despite its relaxed shape, this style of dress can be easily dressed up for evening attire with heels, smart flats or dressed down with your most comfortable sandals. Add some kitten heels and a clutch bag for an easy, elevated look that can work for alfresco dinners, garden parties or holidays.
