The One Dress Trend Fashion People Will Be Wearing This Summer

Dresses, like swimsuits, are one piece that always makes me think of summer. My closet is stocked with everything from micro minidresses to wrap dresses to ones with puffy sleeves, and I always look forward to bringing them back into rotation during the summer months. One style that is noticeably absent from my closet? Maxi dresses. I've always found the style challenging to wear, but recently, I've been warming up to them. I've spotted fashion people everywhere wearing the silhouette and it's convinced me to adopt it for myself.

While I can count one maxi dress in my closet, I have several sitting in my shopping cart right now and plan on wearing them in the coming months. Not only are the flowy dresses a new take on comfortable clothing, but they're also endlessly chic. Whether styled with Velcro sport sandals or pretty strappy flats, maxi dresses are the sophisticated summer trend that read as instantly polished. Ahead, see how fashion people are styling them for some inspiration.

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(Image credit: @bettinalooney)

Truth be told, this stunning floral Matteau dress is sitting at the top of my summer wish list. The print is subtle enough to wear again and again.

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(Image credit: @champagnemani)

Found: the prettiest dress of the summer. Whether you toughen this up with a pair of boots or wear it with strappy heels, there's no doubt this piece is showstopping.

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(Image credit: @alexisforeman)

If there's one trend that's only gaining steam, it's voluminous, flowy dresses. Look for one with sculptural sleeves and a wide cut for a look that's sophisticated and on-trend.

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(Image credit: @kristengracelam)

Go for something with thin straps and a high waist for something that is equal parts comfortable and chic. Wear it with a pair of sleek strappy flats.

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(Image credit: @monikh)

Right now, I can't get enough linen pieces into my closet. The breathable fabric is so comfortable and chic, so it's a great alternative to sweatpants.

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(Image credit: @thatgirlyusra)

Vibrant orange is one of my favorite colors for summer 2020. The sunny shade is popping up everywhere.

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(Image credit: @slipintostyle)

For an easy daytime outfit, look for a long cotton dress with cool details like a puffy sleeve. Then, add a pair of sport sandals for of-the-moment styling.

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(Image credit: @saasha_burns)

There's nothing better to wear for summer than a breathable, air cotton dress like this one from Australian label Matin. Pair if with a bright bag to add a pop of color.

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(Image credit: @tovestudio)

Founded last year, Tove is a must-know brand designing stunning pieces that blend minimalism with a touch of romance.

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(Image credit: @fongminliao)

A piece that will always be in style? A white maxi dress. Add a gold necklace and earrings or simply wear the dress on its own.

Next, discover the seven biggest swim trends to know about for summer 2020.

Associate Director, Special Projects

Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear with over a decade of experience in fashion, editorial, and publishing. She oversees luxury and runway content as well as wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. She also contributes to podcast recordings, social media, and branded content initiatives. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, Tiffany & Co., and MyTheresa, and rising designers such as Refine and Tove, and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Before Who What Wear, Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.