In the world of fashion, it's all about planning ahead. Being organised can pay off when it comes to getting ahold of key pieces. We see trends as dates in our dairy to book in. Like, you know, velvet for winter, sequins for party season and florals for spring (groundbreaking). But it's not often that a trend books out the whole calendar in one fell swoop. Until the prairie dress landed, that is.
We'd say 2018 has been the ultimate year for demure dresses, but none has taken hold quite as much as the long-sleeved, high-necked and slightly bohemian or Victorian-inspired prairie dress. It could be partly down to London label The Vampire's Wife becoming a hit with all the celebs (including Alexa Chung), or New York–based brand Batsheva being an instant Instagram hit and making a case for modest dressing. Either way, they're sticking around.
Designer Aurora James has been so dedicated to her Batsheva dress that she's even getting into a prairie lifestyle. Horse not included with purchase.
Our fashion editors have already given you a detailed edit of the spring/summer 2019 trends you need to know about on site, and the prairie dress is one of them. Spotted all over the catwalk at the likes of Coach and Brock Collection (recently worn by the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle), it's no surprise there are already new styles on Net-a-Porter and even the high street at Zara and Mango.
Bohemian celebrities like Florence Welch have been behind this dress style for a long time, often opting for vintage.
So, what's so very special about this style, aside from the joy the ruffles, detailed sleeves and elegant drop hem will bring to your life? It has the all year round wearability we've all been looking for, making it suitable for any—and we mean any—season.
The floaty, loose-fit prairie dress style is easy to layer for autumn/winter over (or under) knitwear. They also have a slight Western edge, so they, of course, look stylish with cowboy boots. Come spring, you'll be styling it with lace-up sandals and even packing in your suitcase for summer holidays to wear in the evening.
To prove the prairie dress really can be worn at any time of year, here are 15 key styles we'll be buying now and wearing through to next year. Raise your hand if you love an outfit you can wear on repeat (same).
15 of the Best Prairie Dresses
A couple of WWW UK team members own this dress and love it.
Even the colour of this feels vintage.
This dress has sold out in nearly all colours. You'll have to be quick to snap it up.
We've seen this on one of our favourite influencers, and it's just incredible IRL.
It's the Ganni dress everyone has been wearing. Get it in the sales while you can.
Related: How to Dress From Day to Night With Zero Effort
The belted style bring it right in to S/S 19.
Add a cardigan for daytime coolness.
Olive works just as well teamed with burgundy for winter as it does with pink for spring.
This is so flattering on everyone.
It's the brand that does maxi dresses so well.
Related: After Years of Collecting French Style Secrets, These 6 Have Never Failed Me
Ditsy florals, ruffles and a lace-up belt makes this dress a dream for anyone to own.
Add knee-high boots for now and lace-up sandals come spring.
We like the idea of summery dresses with tights.
You'll make an excuse to wear this for any occasion.
A pussybow detail is always an elegant touch.
Next up, these 14 designer bags that will dominate 2019.
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