My love affair with summer dresses goes way back, there is simply no better piece of fuss-free clothing in my mind, especially after a season of layering. You don’t need to worry about coordinating complicated outfits, just throw it on, add a pair of shoes and a designer handbag – and you’re done.

The beauty of the humble dress, is that it doesn’t need to be fussy, especially if you’re not a dress person to begin with. In fact, some of this season’s biggest trends are around paired-back, minimalist dressing, and I’ve found the very best summer dresses to suit all tastes.

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Summer dresses: trends

This season, as we slowly ease out of lockdown, summer fashion trends are all about the feel-good factor, and that translates into over-the-top tulle ballgowns, acid-hued florals, ribbon detailing, feel-good colours and puff sleeves galore, as seen at the likes of Molly Goddard, Simone Rocha and Rodarte.

But don’t be fooled into thinking it’s just about making a statement, Jacquemus, Victoria beckham and Khaite all proved that the most minimal monochrome styles can bring just as much joy, especially with a discreetly placed cut-out detail.

Length-wise, while midi dresses are still king, hemlines are getting a little longer in a nostalgic nod to the noughties, so do think about investing in a straight length maxi dress. Even better when styles with chunky flip flops (The Row have conveniently just re-issued last summer’s sell-out Ginza sandals).

Whatever your fancy, I’ve cherry picked best summer dresses from my favourite designers and high street stores so that you don’t have to go on a hunt to find what works for you. 

The post I’m obsessed with summer dresses, and I’ve cherry picked the best for you appeared first on Marie Claire.