The first sign of seasonal shift and I turn into a hippy. Anyone else? If floaty, printed, slightly retro midi and maxi dresses become your go-to, then we likely will share the same taste in shopping destinations. So listen up, because I'm about to share a bit of useful intel with you (don't worry—you can thank me later).
After the months of trousers and thick wools, now is the time to fling off the layers and snap up those It dresses right in time for the sunshine. So, to go with my sunny day sandals and museum of earrings, I always head to Free People when the weather starts to turn. It's my secret source for bohemian dresses that you won't keep bumping into on your commute. The Philadelphia-based brand might not be as known in the UK as it is in the States, but I predict that once you see its latest collection, you'll want to channel your inner Stevie Nicks.
What's more, I often find that Free People's dresses are of a better quality than you'd find elsewhere on the high street. Rather than more cost-effective obvious prints, for example, you'll find embroidery on linen instead. In the place of cheaper elasticated waistbands, you'll discover cinched, full-skirted silhouettes or cutaway details. It's partly down to the in-house designs but also a credit to the buying team, which cherry-picks a mixture of pieces from other niche brands as well.
Basically, if your icons range between the Olsens circa 2005 and Talitha Getty in the '70s, you've come to the right story (and the right online store). Keep scrolling to shop my top Free People dresses (before I buy them all). They're a versatile, all-weather option well worth investing in, and believe me, your wardrobe will be grateful.
Shop Our Free People Dress Edit
A perennial bestseller.
I don't know whether its the asymmetric hem or the contrasting black lines, but everything about this is incredibly chic.
Business in the front, party in the back.
This playful summer dress comes in an impressive 26 shades!
Such a flattering shape for every body.
From the shirring to the lace details, there's a lot to love about this dress.
A very elegant take on a denim midi.
This comes in classic black, delicate pink and red, but this soft yellow has all my attention.
The drop waist detail is seriously good.
The sweet tie details are everything.
Understated and easy to dress up or down.
Joyful florals are back in business now that summer is around the corner.
Just add sandals and a basket bag.
So many of Free People's dreamy dresses feature clever details like pockets.
Destined to be a holiday favourite.
Running through my mind is exactly right.
-
4 Anti-Trend Outfits I Spot Every Time I'm in EuropeClassic looks that are always in style.
-
3 Non-Holiday Ways to Wear Velvet This WinterYou're welcome.
-
Hollywood Stylist Rob Zangardi Told Me His Highly Covetable Gift PicksI'll take one of each, please.
-
Hailey Bieber Just Used the TikTok Styling Hack That Will Actually Go the DistanceI'm going to use it this weekend.
-
After 15 Years as a Fashion Writer, I Know These Free Style Tweaks Will Make a Big ImpactHow to give your wardrobe a new lease on life.
-
The 40 New Arrivals From Saks, Net-a-Porter, and Nordstrom That Will Sell Out FirstYou have my word.
-
I Want a Luxe Wardrobe, So I'm Eyeing These On-Sale Cashmere, Satin, and Velvet Pieces for Black FridayGift these to yourself or someone special.
-
Everything You Need to Look Elegant in 2025 Just Arrived at Nordstrom—EnjoyNew year, new clothes.
