The Simple, Throw-On Dress Trend Fashion People Always Reach for During a Heatwave

If I've leant one thing about dressing for warm weather, it's that less really is more. On a sweltering day when your hair is sticking to your forehead and your cheeks are a burning shade of crimson, there's nothing less appealing than the idea of faffing around with multiple layers. Instead, I've learnt that it's best to stick with a single item if possible, and in my experience, the best candidate for the job is a shift dress.
Falling down from the arms in an A-line shape, this comfortable dress trend skims the body without clinging to it. Ideal for summer's scorching days, the simple silhouette makes getting ready in the morning all the more easy and less daunting.
A favourite amongst those in the know, the elegant dress is a staple throughout the summer months. However, I'd say it's more popular than ever this year, as much of 2024's fashion has centred around simple, timeless pieces.
Often styled with trending flip flops or sleek ballet flats for a pretty look, I've also seen the dress trend worn with knee high boots and loafers on cloudier days, further attesting to its sheer versatility.
A classic shape never goes out of style, this elegant dress has been around since the '60s. Having ebbed in and out of style since then, 2024's shift dresses are mainly found in light linens and cottons and designed in classic colours that can see you through many summers to come.
Saturating the fashion scene, the shift dress has also made its way into the shop fronts at pace. From Reformation's lightweight linen style to Kitri's pretty printed dress, scroll on to discover our edit of the best shift dresses to shop this season.
SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST SHIFT DRESSES:

Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer and has worked in the fashion industry since she graduated with a degree in Journalism from the University of the Arts London. Natalie’s experience in the industry spans journalistic and styling roles that have seen her work for publications including British Vogue, Conde Nast Traveller, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK.
With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Reporting on a daily basis, Natalie focuses on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.
-
8 Pieces That Are the Secret Sauce to an Incredibly Chic Summer Outfit Rotation
Getting ready just got so much easier.
-
The 2025 Dress Trend I'm Copying From the Olsen Twins to Look Wealthy This Summer
Per usual, they were way ahead of their time.
-
It's Officially a Butter-Yellow Summer—27 of the Chicest Finds at Zara, Nordstrom, and J.Crew
Fashion people love this color trend.
-
The Classic Hero Piece That Fashion People Reach For All Summer Long
Something for every personal style.
-
I've Lived in NYC, L.A., and Boston—Here's Everything I Think Is Chic for Summer
Shop the highly curated list.
-
These 31 Rich-Looking Nordstrom Finds Are Giving "I Summer in the Hamptons"
Minus the trust fund.
-
Haven't Been to Madewell Lately? 36 Summer Clothing Styles I'd Snatch Up ASAP
Hurry—these pieces are bound to sell out.
-
Everyone With Good Taste Is Already Wearing These 7 Chic Summer Pieces
These instantly elevate any look.