Here at Who What Wear, we are very much looking forward to summertime. The heat of the sun, the minimal layers—it’s going to be amazing. Fashion-wise, we are particularly excited to bring out (and shop for) our summer dresses, which are about to be the most-worn items in our closets. As fashion editors,, we have our fingers on the pulse of what’s up and coming, and for 2026, there's a new Rolodex of summer dress trends to choose from.
There are a few summer dress trends that we’re leaving behind in favor of more modern and chic dress trends. These trends are fresh and polished for those extremely hot summer days when you just need a flowy dress to throw on. We’re leaving behind the infamous polka dot dresses and even the one-shoulder wonder dresses, but don’t worry. Learn what our team of fashion editors is leaving behind in 2026 and what we’re wearing instead for the season ahead, and shop our top selections of summer dresses. n
Chichi Offor, Associate Shopping Editor
"Drop-Waist dresses had a huge moment the last couple of years. I won't say they're fully out. I will say that the style is starting to feel a little over-saturated. I’ve shifted to more classic A-line dresses for Spring and Summer. The little bit of cinch at the waist is a nice touch."
Leaving Behind: Drop-Waist Dresses
Wearing: A-Line Dresses
Shop A-Line Dresses
Daniela Guevara, Assistant Social Media Editor
"This summer I’m leaving behind bubble hem dresses, as someone who would consider their style to be cutesy, girly, flirty I think I fell trap to the micro trend and don’t see myself reaching for the bubble hem items in my closet anymore. A dress trend I am investing in are sheer dresses. They’e always been a staple for me since I’ve lived in warm climates (Texas and Cali baby!) and I think they’re perfect for layering with fun underwear, swimsuits, with a pair of jeans. The possibilities are endless! I hope to color block with sheer dresses this summer."
Leaving Behind: Bubble Hem Dresses
Wearing: Mesh Dresses
Shop Mesh Dresses
Josephine Hadjiloucas, Assistant Shopping Editor
"Hot take–I'm over one-shoulder dresses. I'm always struggling to find the right undergarment to wear with it. Not to mention, once I finally have the outfit all together, I spend the whole night recorrecting the neckline. So, instead, I'm embracing the halter. I know, I know, a halter might sound "dated," but bear with me. I recently picked up the Reformation Jillian Silk Dress in Chili Mango, and I'm absolutely in love. Yes, the color is absolutely stunning, but the fit is unbelievable. With almost a two-piece effect, the halter-style top mimics a silk scarf (another dress trend I've been picking up on lately) with a maxi skirt. Now, I'm just waiting for a night out to wear it."
Leaving Behind: One-Shoulder Dresses
Wearing: Halterneck Dresses
Shop Halterneck Dresses
Audry Hiaoui, Associate Shopping Editor
"While I do find polka dot dresses to be classic, they really were everywhere last spring and summer. To switch things up this year, I’m going back to even more enduring styles, like silk and cotton dresses."
Leaving Behind: Polka Dot Dresses
Wearing: Silk Dresses
Shop Silk Dresses
Ana Escalante, Associate Features Editor
"I love a baby doll dress. Truly, there's nothing sweeter. Bows! Ruffles! Cap sleeves! I love a baby doll dress paired with woven sandals, smaller ‘90s-style sunglasses and a raffia tote bag, leaning very much into a Provence-feeling uniform rather than a stereotypical overly bubblegum sweet styling approach to this feminine mini.”
Leaving Behind: Shift Dresses
Wearing: Babydoll Dresses
Shop Babydoll Dresses
Why Trust Us
At Who What Wear, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognizable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality, and real-world wearability.
We regularly try pieces ourselves, including everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes; speak to external experts and fashion insiders; and stay closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise and has to pass our exceptional taste levels, so you can feel confident in every recommendation.