I'm a Classic Dresser With High Standards—5 Elegant Summer Dresses I Can't Stop Thinking About

It's hard to believe that I avoided wearing dresses for so long. For many summers, I spent hours putting together a series of intricate outfits, pulling upon various separates to create my chic summer looks, when all along, there was an easy alternative. The one-and-done dress requires little thought or styling, as the really great ones don't need plenty of extras, just a simple pair of sandals and a sleek woven bag to look instantly polished. As the sunshine has already proven to be precarious this summer, when the sky-high temperatures return, I don't want to waste any time mixing and matching pieces together. Instead, I'm calling upon great dresses to do the heavy lifting, and one brand that knows all about great dresses is Dôen.

You're probably well acquainted with Dôen by now. Since its launch a decade ago, the brand has become a favourite for in-the-know fashion people and celebrities alike. Year after year, Dôen's best-selling styles can be spotted as soon as the sunshine arrives, from the delicate puff sleeves of the Quinn to the intricate ruching on the Emmaretta. As soon as the weather starts to brighten, stylish people once again reach for dependable Dôen dresses, whether they're strolling through the city on weekends or packing up for a trip abroad. At the same time, new designs arrive, or shades are updated on beloved styles, which continue to renew our fascination with the brand, but one thing remains the same: the ease and elegance in every design.

When it comes to worthwhile summer investments, I like to do my research. That's why I took all the recommendations and sightings in my stride as I headed out to try Dôen's best-selling pieces in person. Truthfully, I went in with high hopes, and I was not disappointed. The brand's way of creating fluid, elegant and timeless pieces is well documented, but actually wearing the piece means that I can add comfortable, lightweight and breathable to that list. The fabrics, most of which focus on organic cotton or silk-satin, feel high-end to the touch, and along with the refined designs, prove exactly why Dôen is such a well-loved brand across the globe.

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Narrowing down my choices of the best Dôen dresses came down to a few things. One is the cult status of a few styles, including the Ischia and the Emmaretta, which have proven their worth over the years. Alongside, Dôen's sweet mini dresses frequently sell out, and already the Almadia is proving to be a fan favourite with an elegant square lace-trim neckline, whilst the Fiona caught my eye for its distinctive print and chic silhouette. In terms of sizing, I tend to wear a size small and would stick to my true size for all the styles below. If you're in between sizes, note that the Quinn, Emmaretta and Ischia have soft shirring to fit your form, with ties around the neckline which allow you to adjust the bust to fit your body. With the sunshine returning, now is the time to bolster our summer dress collections, and if you want to dive into the best Dôen dresses, keep scrolling to read my review.

1. The Quinn

Style Notes: The Quinn dress is classic in every way. From the puff sleeves to the shirred waist to the flowing skirt, this dress is made to outlast the moving trends, and the organic cotton primes the style for the warmest summer days. The Quinn comes in a series of sleek shades from classic black and white to this standout soft green, which I haven't stopped thinking about ever since.

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2. The Almadia Dress

Style Notes: If you like your dresses mini, airy and impossibly polished, it's time to talk about the Almadia. Featuring a crochet-trimmed neckline with a sleek square shape, the Almadia is the perfect throw-on and go style when heading abroad. It's worth noting that the fabric can come up a little sheer, so if you prefer more coverage, layer this over simple shorts.

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3. The Emmaretta

Style Notes: Whether I'm strolling through the streets of London or exploring a new city abroad, I know that this dress will look the part. Simple add ballet flats or sandals and chuck all your essentials in a woven bag for an instantly sleek look. Here I tried on a size up (due to stock) but was able to adjust the fit around the bust and waist with the ties, showing just how clever this small addition is. I'd still take my regular size here.

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4. The Ischia

Style Notes: The Ischia is one dress that I spot time and time again. It exudes the same understated mood as the Quinn, but with longer puff sleeves and adjustable ties also around the waist. From spring to autumn, this is a dress that will work hard in your wardrobe, paired with sandals, ballet flats or heels as desired. Find the style in your favourite neutrals as well as more playful prints too.

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5. The Fiona

Style Notes: Whilst Dôen excels in understated styles, you should also keep an eye out for its incredible prints. Case in point: the Fiona dress, with a sweet floral print, delicate lace trim and luxurious silk-satin fabric. The cap sleeves are a sweet addition to this style, which can move from day to evening with a simple switch in styling. I've already spotted a series of stylish people in this dress this season, so move fast if you don't want to miss out.

Shop More Dôen Dresses We Adore