If I've Learnt Anything So Far This Summer, It's That This Once-Dated Dress Style Is Back in a Big Way

Summer is in full force and since the first heatwave of the year back in May, there’s only one capsule-wardrobe piece that’s been constantly on my mind: dresses. And while I love a midi and maxi, I’m really a sucker for anything short and loose, so it felt like fate when I was scrolling through Instagram and stumbled across one of my favourite fashion people (and fellow Who What Wear UK team member) in a silhouette I’d overlooked until now: the swing minidress.

There’s not much that Who What Wear UK’s senior branded content editor, Rebecca Rhys Evans, can’t convince me to buy. I consistently admire everything she wears (from afar and up close in the office) and this time was no different. While I’m all for the outfit-making magic of a classic silhouette like a drop-waist dress or a shirred maxi when the sun shines, my go-to in the summer is always a loose style with a short hem. Why, you ask? Because they’re just so easy.

Now, if you’ve read any of my content before, you’ll know I’m quite particular about the trends I buy into. Everything has to have that throw-on-and-go ease while working seamlessly with the rest of my core capsule wardrobe, accessories and shoes included. Which is exactly why I’ve grown to love the swing minidress.

Defined originally by a slightly fitted bodice and a flared A-line skirt that “swings” out from the bust or waist and falls above the knee, today’s version of a chic swing minidress is a far cry from the Mary Quant mini popularised in the ’60s. Recently, swing silhouettes were spotted all over the London and Paris spring/summer 2025 runways, From the Chloé runway where Alexa Chung’s infamous swing mini moment was born (see below), to Christopher Esber and Miu Miu. While every style felt different and fresh, there was one common thread that ran through all of them: their swing minidresses echoed the 2010s “dollcore” aesthetic, a style that’s been steadily rising in popularity for some time. Swing dresses are often merged with other familiar styles, such as the babydoll dress, or a cotton style with a lace trim, and there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to a swing style; if the skirt flares out, then you’re covered!

Alexa Chung's babydoll swing mini dress fits the bill because of its slightly flared skirt!

It was no surprise to me, then, when the high street followed closely behind the luxury fashion houses shortly after fashion month. Brands like Reformation, Ganni, Rixo and Réalisation Par have released a plethora of swing minidresses, loved by both Gen Z and millennials alike. From bold prints to lace broderie detailing, there are so many swing minidresses on the market right now. And the best part? They work in the autumn too with tights and flats or boots.

Layered underneath a coat and paired with tights and loafers, this dress will have the same easy feel as it does in summer with a flip-flop or sandal. Although the outfit formulation might change, the appeal of the swing minidress doesn't. Keep scrolling to find the 18 best swing minidresses on the market right now.

Shop the Best Swing Mini-Dresses:

The Best Swing Mini-Dresses Under £50:

The Best Swing Mini-Dresses Under £150:

The Best Swing Mini-Dresses Under £500: