Most of us spend all year dreaming of sunshine, envisaging our best summer selves, tanned, chic and carefree. But in the UK, when a heatwave hits and we are likely sans aircon and a sea breeze, the reality of summer hits with a dull—and sweaty—thud. Whether you’re a stifled city-dweller gasping for air on the Tube, or having a marginally better time somewhere less densely populated, you’ll no doubt be feeling the effects of the hottest British weather we’ve experienced in decades. All of this to say: it's time to get sorted. And no, I'm not suggesting you go out and invest in AC, but I do think you should arm yourself with a breezy throw-on summer dress to see you through this and any subsequent hot spells.
Thankfully, we’re talking seriously low-maintenance looks; typically unstructured smocks that are voluminous in shape, generous in fit and constructed from something light and airy like cotton. For those who prefer a little more coverage, the trapeze maxi is a great alternative that’s no less airy, so long as you’re opting for natural fibres. And those braving the stuffy commute to bask in that sweet office aircon, you can still keep cool in cotton and linen in smarter, more structured silhouettes and longer hemlines. From Dôen's cult cotton midis to H&M floor-sweeping linen dresses, here's our edit of the best heatwave-appropriate dresses for when it's too hot to think for yourself.
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I'm calling it: this rich-looking H&M linen-blend dress will be out of stock by next week. Pair with sandals and a raffia tote, and you're ready to face the heat.
Dôen needs no introduction. Not only is the brand's covetable Emmaretta dress flattering, super pretty and instantly recognisable, but it's also made of the breeziest cotton gauze for extra comfort points.
COS's midi is made from a cotton-linen blend, which means it's breathable but weighty enough to hold its shape. We love the drop-waist pleat and lemon hue.
The billowy silhouette makes this an excellent choice. It's great for casual wear, but you can also dress it up for dinner with lashings of gold jewellery, or layer a loose tee over it to have it double as a midi skirt.
The fact that Abercrombie has an entire line of dresses dedicated to going bra-free is music to my ears, because no one needs extra underpinnings during a heatwave.
Matteau was once solely a resortwear brand, so its whole ethos is rooted in chic hot-weather staples. This maxi is made from organic cotton and features an ultra-stretchy shirred bodice that allows for multiple styling options.
Made from 100% cotton, Zara's midi dress has a striking fit-and-flare shape. The high neck keeps things feeling smarter, whilst the low back and spaghetti-strap ties showcase just a little bit of skin.
Personally, when it's hot, I live in my If Only If nighties. Luckily, the brand has thought ahead this summer and dropped its cult Clover nightwear in day-dress form, so you can be comfortable and cool if you really must leave the house.
Our most affordable pick in this edit, H&M is coming through with its take on the viral tablecloth dress. It's mini in length, made from 100% cotton and has super-thin spaghetti straps for all your heatwave needs.
Dôen's Almadia dress has become a bit of a cult favourite this summer, thanks to those crochet trims. It's one of those throw-it-on smocks that looks so effortless and feels so comfortable.
A slightly dressier option for heatwave dressing, Reformation's Fraise dress is made from a weightier linen to enhance its flared silhouette.
Dressing for work during a heatwave is hard. This St. Agni midi will solve your officewear woes with its smart silhouette and crisp poplin cotton.
Stay cool, calm and collected in this chic linen mini shift dress from COS.
Aussie brand Posse's linen staples are a collection mainstay. The Emma dress looks like a simple shift upon first glance, but it's cleverly darted and cinches at the back to create an elegant hourglass shape.
Me+Em's take on summer dressing is naturally polished, which makes this lace-panelled cheesecloth midi perfect for work and play.
With Nothing Underneath's Sloane mini is everything we're looking for in a heatwave dress, and then some. It's 100% linen, features a flattering V-neck and works across occasions, from the beach to the office, with strategic styling tweaks.
Bali-based label (with an Australian founder) Faithfull knows a thing or two about hot-weather wardrobes. Plus, all of its breathable cotton and linen dresses are B-Corp certified.
Fresh in at H&M is this polka-dot dress, made from airy cotton. The sweetheart bodice and pleated skirt panels create a playful, retro silhouette.
Most of the pieces in this edit are daytime dresses made from natural fibres to ensure maximum breathability. But, thankfully, parties don't stop just because there's a heatwave in town. If you're looking for sleek eveningwear, opt for a fluid slip with spaghetti straps.
This white minidress looks like a vintage gem. Made from cotton gauze, it's panelled with intricate lace and topped with crochet cups. The beaded tie straps and cutout at the back give this number a beachy feel, but you could totally wear it during a heatwave in the city.