While we’ve developed a somewhat unhealthy attachment to our oversized blazers and favourite straight-leg jeans, we couldn’t be happier to be bidding them adieu for our summertime staple: the sun dress.
Sure, we can don a dress year-round, but it’s never quite the same as the flowy, strappy and lightweight numbers we wear so freely in the spring and summer months.
From minis to maxis and everything in between, the perfect summer dress is a wardrobe chameleon, with the ability to be dressed up or down according to the occasion (and even be worn with that beloved blazer on cooler nights).
For those following the style set, dopamine dressing (hello, Barbie-core pinks and wasabi greens) and showing a little skin with cut-outs, netting and crochet continue to dominate.
If minimalism is more your pace, capsule wardrobe devotees will delight in the array of pared-back pieces that can take you from the office to the bar with ease.
Scroll on for our pick of the best spring/summer dresses of 2024.
Best Summer Dresses To Shop In 2024
Evalita Twist Midi Dress
$420 at Sir
Sir sets you up for effortless warm-weather dressing with its luxe fabrics and stunning silhouettes. This floral style is cut from linen and can do daytime dressing or after-dark glamour when paired with the right accessories.
Zimmermann Belted Mini Dress
from $678 (usually $1231) at The Outnet
Summer is the season for colour – this striking mini from local label Zimmermann demonstrates why. Perfect for those embracing a Boho-chic vibe, this floaty style effortlessly weaves captivating prints with a kaleidoscope of hues.
Citara Maxi Dress
$350 at Faithfull
Summer provides the perfect opportunity to draw inspiration from the natural world. The Citara maxi in earthy hues and lightweight knit fabrication demonstrates Fatihfull’s ability to make a point of difference with a classic summer dress.
Alemais Wave Midi Dress
$695 at The Iconic
Alemais is a firm favourite when it comes to summer dresses with a twist. And we’re particularly smitten with this ’90s-inspired slip. The wave design brings an artful touch to the otherwise minimalist satin silhouette.
Aere Linen Midi Dress
$170 at The Iconic
A linen midi dress offers the ultimate everyday summer outfit without requiring too much thought or effort. This classic black style is finished with flattering seam details. The best thing about this silhouette is you can take it from the office to after-work drinks or a festive brunch with just the simple switch up of accessories.
Cleo Dress
$279 at Oroton
Australians know summer dressing and Oroton’s seasonal dresses make it hard to pick just one. However, this structured cotton poplin shirt dress from its new Everyday Collection makes for a steadfast investment. Pair with strappy kitten heels and a shoulder bag for heat-proof office dressing.
Matteau Belted Mini Shirt Dress
$778 at Net-A-Porter
Another style that proves poplin is a powerful choice: Matteau flips the classic shirt dress on its head with this mini. Style it with sandals while running errands and simply slip on some statement heels and golden jewellery for a head-turning date night outfit.
Lovaan Studios Audrey Dress
$595 at David Jones
Summer calls for salty skin and hair – and sheer fabrics. Bare a bit in this lovely lace midi from Lovaan Studios – a romantic solution to hot weather dressing. Amp up the coquette attitude with bow-adorned accessories.
Hansen & Gretel Lucy Mini Dress
$299 at The Iconic
A little floral dress is a summertime must. Pair this linen style from Hansen & Gretel with an oversized sunhat and espadrilles or take it up a notch with shining metallic accessories for nights out.
Doen Rhodia Midi Dress
$516 at Net-A-Porter
Longing for summertime dinner parties and memorable moments, this floral midi dress from Doen is ideal for any occasion. Featuring subtle puffed sleeves and a Boho-inspired paisley print, it will quickly become a go-to outfit.
What dresses are trending for summer 2024?
Summer dresses should be effortless. This season is all about embracing subtle sheer fabrics, leaning into romantic florals and finishing touches and looking for opportunities to add colour. Fabrics like cotton and linen will help keep you feeling cool as the temperature rises.
What style of dress should I buy for summer?
Think about your summer wardrobe based on your calendar – a range of work-appropriate, day-to-night and holiday-ready pieces should fit in nicely. Black and white styles can be easily dressed up or down. But prints and colours will help create instant outfits that you can wear on rotation.
Looking to save money on summer dresses? Check out our coupon codes for Oroton, Net-A-Porter and more.
This article originally appeared on Marie Claire Australia and is republished here with permission.
