You may not have realised it due to the back-to-back heatwaves we’ve experienced, but we're fast approaching the end of the summer. And with this comes the (very sad) realisation that I’ll soon be packing away my linen trousers, basket bags and, most devastatingly to me, lightweight dresses. So, with that at the top of mind, I’m determined to get the absolute most out of dress season before the temperatures drop in August. Of course, this means I’ve been on the hunt for some newer styles to add into my outfit rotations, and after spotting a particular high-street find on the forever-elegant Pippa Middleton, I think I’ve found the perfect one. And I was shocked to realise that it was the same style I missed out on last summer. Enter Reformation’s Naira Dress.

Spotted at Wimbledon wearing the red-and-white floral iteration with white court heels, a raffia hat and clutch, Pippa Middleton showed how simple Reformation’s Naira dress is to style for formal occasions. But rest assured that it can just as easily be styled with a pair of minimal trainers and a shoulder bag for more casual days out. Me personally? I’ll be wearing mine with a pair of suede loafers and a leather tote as an easy throw-on office outfit on those days I don’t know what to wear. With its subtle puff sleeves, deep V-neckline and maxi length, it strikes the perfect balance between ease and elegance.

Last year, it was the white-and-black polka dot iteration that took social media by storm, and although it sold out fast, summer 2026’s selection has five no-less-chic patterns to choose from. And trust me when I say—it’s selling fast.

Keep scrolling to shop Reformation’s Naira dress for summer 2026, and then take a browse at some more Reformation dresses I currently have my eye on.

Shop Reformation's Naira Dress

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Is there anything quite like a European summer? Every year without fail, the continent comes alive with a vivacious energy that only comes with guaranteed sun, and as ever, Brits are making the most of it. The picturesque backdrops have transformed into an open-air runway, with the fashion set and locals alike heading to the coasts in their best ensembles. Be it the oversized sunnies and babydoll dresses of those "nonna-maxxing" or the vivid blues and board shorts of a 2000s surfer girl, one thing is for certain: fashion in Europe rarely misses, but there's something about the dress trends in particular that are in a league of their own.

With no two destinations the same, preferred dress styles can vary hugely. The printed maxis of Barcelona feel worlds away from the edgy, bandage minis of Berlin, and the polished resort styles floating through the streets of Monaco are the opposite of the casual, breezy linen minis of Paris.

With a two-week Euro-summer extravaganza mere days away on my calendar, I’ve been saving several dresses (categorised by city, of course). Looking at the chicest fashion people on my socials, the dresses they choose for each region are serving as the perfect guide to looking the part, so if your holiday is also just around the corner and you could do with some direction on dresses to pack, keep scrolling. Below you’ll discover the pieces influencers are wearing abroad. Happy holidays!

6 Dress Trends You Need to See Before Summer Ends

1. Paris: The Little White Dress

Style Notes: Paris is a fashion authority year-round, but if you’ve visited the city in summer, you’ll know that it gets sweltering. With the urban heat keeping tourists more than toasty, the only dress practical enough for the city is a mini. Lightweight and breathable, opt for styles without too much fuss to achieve that inherent Parisian nonchalance. Bonus points if you finish with a raffia bag and crochet flats.

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2. The Nordics: Voluminous Midis

Style Notes: After travelling to Copenhagen a few years ago, I realised that you need to be smart when choosing a dress. Even their hottest summers have a cool undercurrent, which means longer dresses in a slightly thicker fabric work best. But your dresses have to be boring. In fact, it's quite the opposite. With a style set that enjoys vintage-inspired prints and decidedly more sculptural silhouettes, the dress trends favoured by the most stylish Scandi dressers maintain this balance, just with a tad more coverage.

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3. London: Eclectic Minis

Style Notes: In a city where the style set follows a cooler, do-what-you-want aesthetic, the dress trends prominent in London are fashionable, functional, city-centric minis. Slinky drapes, playful prints, tassel fastenings, tie straps, scarves and belts: really, anything goes, as long as it's short (no pun intended). And no matter the shape, the most popular styles are those with a little extra Y2K energy.

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4. Spain: Prints Please

Style Notes: Whether you’re bobbing around the blissful coast of Palma or sampling Madrid's very best cuisine, a trip to Spain calls for a statement dress. With a vivacious spirit, España calls for your very best prints and patterns. Think sheer slinky maxis or vivid hues. In this locale, almost anything goes.

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5. Greece: Coastal Calling

Style Notes: My favourite region to visit in the summer, when packing a dress for Greece, I can't help but think white and blue. With the Mediterranean's blissful hues echoed in so much summer fashion, the coast calls for anything comprised of lightweight fabric (think crochet and satin maxis airy enough to keep you cool amid the balmier days). This season we're all about channeling the Ancients through dresses, Odysseus summer anyone?

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6. Italy: Watercolour Florals

Style Notes: With a nightlife as bustling as its lively streets, when packing for Italy, it’s essential to pack a style that will transition from day to night with you. The answer? Pretty minis adorned with watercolour florals perfect for exploring the city, or jumping from one Tuscan vineyard to another.

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Of course, there's still plenty of summer left, but I wouldn't be much of a fashion editor if my mind wasn't already thinking about next season. Whilst linen dresses dominated my wardrobe throughout June and July, I'm now craving something a little sleeker. So when Kaia Gerber stepped out this week in a glossy satin dress, I immediately set about finding elevated alternatives to recreate her polished look. With a glossy sheen and fluid drape, the satin dress brings the refined energy that early-autumn styling calls for.

As we sit on the cusp of a new season, the weather still calls for breezy, lightweight pieces, yet our wardrobes begin to lean towards richer textures and sophisticated silhouettes, this elegant dress trend plugs both gaps. Whilst Kaia styled hers with sleek closed-toe mules and oversized sunglasses for an elegant summer look, come September and beyond, swap in knee-high boots and a structured tote and the same dress will carry you through autumn with ease.

One of the smartest additions you can make to your wardrobe right now, scroll on to shop my edit of the best satin dresses to wear from now until November.

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Every summer, without fail, a handful of dress brands emerge as the ones fashion people rely on for elegant, expensive-looking styles, and Nobody's Child is always high on that list. The London label has quietly built a reputation for creating dresses that feel far more premium than their price tags suggest, earning a loyal following among editors, influencers and celebrities alike.

From Sienna Miller to Poppy Delevingne, stylish women continue to turn to the brand for its romantic details, flattering silhouettes and timeless designs that never feel overworked. Whether it's delicate ruching, softly draped fabrics or classic prints, Nobody's Child has mastered the art of creating dresses that feel polished enough for special occasions yet effortless enough to wear every day.

This season, it's the brand's bandeau and polka-dot styles that have captured the fashion crowd's attention. From the strapless, polka-dot Alice dress to the elegant black bandeau style worn by Monikh, these are the pieces proving you don't need to spend four figures to achieve a luxury-looking summer wardrobe.

Whether you're searching for a wedding guest dress, something chic for a summer soirée or simply a beautiful dress you'll wear on repeat, below are the Nobody's Child styles that deserve a place on your wish list.

Shop The Best Nobody's Child Dresses

Now that the scorching heatwave has quelled into something more tranquil, I’m finally looking to build out my repertoire of elegant summer dresses. Though you’d think the last few weeks have been the perfect opportunity to invest in this category, when faced with scorching temperatures, the last thing I’ve been contemplating is whether a piece is worth the investment.

Since things have settled down a bit climate-wise, I’m ready to take this pursuit seriously, turning my attention to the dreamy cuts and balmy silhouettes I can slip into all season long. Naturally, my interest was piqued when I stumbled upon this M&S polka-dot slip dress.

At under £50, it incorporates some of the biggest trends of the moment, from the spotted print to the boudoir-approved shape and lace-trim detail. However, when I discovered that over 5000 people were also searching for the style, I knew I had to act quickly to make it mine. You see, M&S is the place I turn to most to stock up on the essentials, whether a crisp white T-shirt or a pair of functional ballet flats. (And that’s not even mentioning the pantry essentials and homewares I buy from there, too.) The price points are incredibly appealing, but I never feel like I sacrifice quality or design. This is exactly how I felt slipping into this delicate mini.

The construction of the garment is far more luxurious than the cost would suggest. Made of a sheer fabric that’s cut to create a handkerchief effect along the hemline, it’s finished with tight stitching and slip underlay that provides plenty of coverage, whilst still feeling feminine and flirty. It’s also true to size, though I will caveat that there are plenty of sizes and lengths to choose from, meaning it’s also one of the more inclusive pieces on the market. For context, I’m typically a size medium in dresses, and I took the size UK 10 in the regular cut.

What I love most about it, though, is that despite how detailed and romantic it looks, it’s actually quite a versatile piece. The polka dots and lace trim do a lot of the heavy lifting for me in ensuring I look put-together, so I simply have to throw on a pair of kitten-heel flip-flops and let my hair down for a more soiree setting or team it with minimal sandals for daytime activities.

Still, as these design motifs are quite timeless, I don't doubt that I’ll be reaching for them when we're far into September and picking them up again when we head back into spring. Elegant, effortless and easy to style, scroll on to shop the dress for yourself, plus see the other pretty M&S summer dresses that earned my attention, too.

Shop the Viral M&S Polka-Dot Lace-Trim Slip Dress

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Not polka dots, not stripes—this summer's chicest print trend is probably already hanging in your wardrobe. Timeless, elegant and feminine, floral cotton dresses are back at the forefront for the season, and Bella Hadid is leading the charge.

Spotted wearing the pretty print not once but twice, Bella eschewed the sporty aesthetic that's steadily gathered momentum this season, instead leaning into a classic print that always feels apt when the weather warms.

Whilst floral dresses return every spring and summer, this year's offerings feel especially irresistible. With Dôen leading the way with its signature romantic cotton styles, and high-street favourites including Marks & Spencer, Zara and H&M embracing the trend too, there are elegant options at every price point.

Pretty without feeling overly precious, and effortless enough to wear from now through early autumn, a floral dress is a timeless investment you'll reach for year after year. Scroll on to shop my edit of the best floral-print dresses to buy now.

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We can't be the only ones who got very giddy at the first sight of sun in spring and started optimistically dressing for warm weather a little too early this year. Well, maybe we were, but after shivering in vests and putting up with spells of rain in sandals, the one piece that has actually seen us through from the start of the year all the way up to a scorching July has been a great summer dress..

Layered up with cardigans, worn on their own with flip flops, even under a chunky knit in autumn, summer dresses are so versatile that they deserve to be considered a wardrobe staple. Floaty chiffon! Puff sleeved cotton! Slinky slips! There's nothing and no occasion a great dress can't do, but with so many options on the market it can be difficult knowing where to invest your hard earned cash.

Thankfully for you, the Who What Wear UK editors a lot of their time shopping (all in the name of research I might add), and if anyone knows where to find the perfect piece, it's us. Summer dresses are our forte, and whether you're in need of breathable fabrics for the hottest days, high-quality pieces that not only feel good but will last for a lifetime, or style shapes, and silhouettes that make you feel your very best, we've got you covered.

From prairie dresses to showstopping party piece (and everything in between), these the Who What Wear UK editor's round up of the best summer dress brands to wear this season. Happy shopping.

1. Réalisation Par

"Réalisation just can't help it, they've got a knack for making viral dresses. After investing in the Gia dress in not one, but two prints after seeing them all over my social feed a couple of years ago, the latest smash hit, the Cora, is racking up numbers for all of the same reasons. Whisper light fabric, perfectly placed seams, dopamine-inducing colours and vibrant prints—whatever your style (or the occasion), there's a Réalisation dress for you. Whenever I'm in need of an instant outfit that I just know invite compliments, I always start here. And should you be in London, head to the recently opened Mount Street flagship for a luxurious shopping experience that has to be experienced to be believed." Remy Farrell, Fashion Editor

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2. Reformation

"Ask any fashion editor and I'm confident they will have plenty of Reformation in their summer rotation. Already hooked on the Olina trousers and knee skirts this year, the new-in dresses are next on my wish list. From beautiful wedding guest florals to everyday minis, Reformation have the edge on cool-girl styles that the A-list love too." Remy Farrell, Fashion Editor

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3. Faithfull

Style Notes: "I'm not ashamed to admit, my wardrobe is full of Faithfull dresses. Not only do they always get colours and prints exactly right, but the stretchier shirred pieces are exactly the kind of comfortable style you want to throw on a hot summer's day. My preference is for cotton midis and maxis that pair perfectly with my trusty flip flops, but I could also be convinced by the latest drop of minis that deserve a spot in my suitcase for my next holiday. If you're looking for summer dresses that celebrate the joy of summer, you just found them." Florrie Alexander, Shopping Editor

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4. Matteau

"I wasn't a big dress wearer, but not because I don't like them, but because I hadn't found the one yet. Matteau is as close to perfection as any dress has ever come for me, thanks in part to the airy, organic cotton, but also the exceptional fit. As a petite shopper (I'm 5ft4) I can often struggle with the length of some dresses, but Matteau midis still hit right without swamping me in fabric (the shirred styles are genuinely perfect for this). Yes, the prices are a little high on the premium side, but as a big believer in building capsule wardrobes, I prefer to spend a little more on a piece that I know I can wear on rotation every year over quick buys that go out of style as soon as the season changes." Marina Avraam, Senior Shopping Editor

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5. Dôen

"Whenever my friends have asked me what I'm wearing, 8 times out of 10, it's because it's been a Dôen dress. Cute, playful, and endlessly romantic, my summer style tends to shift from tees, jeans and trainers in spring to flirty dresses that I can wear to festivals, picnics, holidays and hosting, and Dôen always meets the brief. Although I'm wearing them on repeat with flip flops right now, if you find the prairie energy a little too bit too sweet for sandals, after spotting Dua Lipa wearing a dress and moto boots in the middle of summer, I'm tempted to copy the look to toughen up cute prints and ground puffy skirts." Imani-Nia Francis-Tsolaki, Junior Fashion Editor

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6. Free People

"As much as I love uncovering amazing, new pieces, shopping still has to feel easy first and foremost. As someone who wants to make sure my purchases are going to be worth the time and effort, I like to try on and feel fabrics in bricks and mortar stores just as much as I like shopping online, so whenever I'm near a Free People store, I pop in to see their latest dress offering. This summer with a wedding and honeymoon on the cards, I've been keeping an eye out for romantic dresses that will work for home and away, and Free People taps in to the luxurious, boho energy I've been looking for. The breezy maxis and cotton minis are my favourite thing in store right now (the Tilly is currently in my basket), and as excited as I am to wear my wedding dress, I'm also looking forward to the honeymoon looks that will follow too." Poppy Nash, Managing Editor

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I’ll let you in on a little secret: I rarely wear mini dresses. My dress collection is predominantly focused on long, flowing styles that hit around mid-calf or skim along the floor, but this year, that’s all changed.

Suddenly, I found myself adding a host of mini dress outfits to my outfit inspiration board, and now that I’m packing for my first sunny trip of the season, I began the search to bolster my mini dress collection. Quickly, I found one particular style with a French edge was holding my attention more than most: white embroidered mini dresses.

For summer 2026, my wardrobe intentions are clear. Every new addition has to have the perfect balance of timeless and fresh, wearable and breathable to take on the warmest days. Naturally, a pretty white embroidered mini dress fits right in. Each summer I find myself drawn back to fresh white palettes, whether paired with equally muted accessories or acting as the foundations for layering on bolder accents by way of silk scarves or vibrant handbags. Either way, the white dress has claimed its place as a sophisticated summer hero.

Whether you’re ready to invest in your summer wardrobe or looking for an expensive-looking high street buy, designers across price points are leaning into the embroidered mini dress return. Intricate details like embroidery and Broderie Anglaise are back for another summer, accenting our favourite blouses, flowing trousers, and now bringing a dainty finishing touch to our throw-on mini dresses. As I’ve already spotted so many stylish people wearing this precise dress trend, let’s get straight into the very best white embroidered mini dresses for summer 2026.

Shop the Best White Embroidered Mini Dresses for Summer 2026

Anointing the dress of the summer is by no means an easy task, nor one I take lightly as a fashion writer. However, after weeks of heatwave dressing, it’s become apparent that the must-have style this season is none other than Réalisation Par’s best-selling Cora dress.

The balmy label specialises in slinky, silk dresses rendered in magnetic prints and delicate cuts, from the ethereal rosette dress seen on Olivia Dean during her Italian sojourn to Sicily to the beloved sun-spotted halterneck mini owned by Lila Moss and Olivia Rodrigo. Still, for a brand that produces endless covetable creations, the Cora dress has reached new levels of fervour, piquing the interest of countless tastemakers and trend setters, including Camille Rowe and Apple Martin.

Launched back in March, the style originally launched to incredibly high demand, selling out within a few days of its release. Now, after a waitlist of close to 5,000 people and constant calls for a restock, it’s once again available to purchase. Naturally, as an inquisitive fashion writer who both adores this brand and is always documenting fashion trends to note, I was eager to try the dress for myself. Needless excitement it was not, with the commotion and praise over the piece instantly vindicated from the second I tried it on.

For reference, the dress is a bias-cut shape that gently drapes along the body. It’s cut close to the figure to accentuate every curve, from the plunging cowl neckline that can either be worn to gracefully expose the décolletage or hang asymmetrically off one shoulder. The bottom half of the dress is equally notable, too. Inspired by handkerchief skirts from the ‘90s, it’s pieced together with georgette panelling that draws the eyeline down the body. The style is semi-sheer, but it does come with a built-in slip that adds coverage where it’s needed, leaving the rest of the fabric light, airy and full of movement whilst ensuring you don’t feel exposed. I found the dress to be true to size, as I’m typically a size 10 and felt that the medium fit me perfectly.

However, the most appealing part of the dress is the print. Horizontal stripes are one of the most coveted motifs this season, and this dress delivers the trend in a way that feels sun-kissed and radiant. This is not only due to the fact that the colour palette is bright and blissful, but also that the pattern itself feels like washes of watercolour paint splashed across the body.

After trying it on in Réalisation Par’s Belgravia store, I was instantly enamoured with the style, knowing I’d immediately have to take it home with me. Since then, I’ve had no struggles in styling it or finding places to wear it. Originally intended as a more occasion-ready piece, the brand confirmed it was designed as a summer wedding guest dress that could suit “city ceremonies to sun-drenched receptions”, claiming it’s “the piece you reach for when the invite is open-ended and the night is young.” I’ve not yet worn it to any nuptials, but I did wear it the evening my fiancé proposed to me, so it’s safe to say that this dress certainly has the magic touch.

The only thought that crossed my mind is that, given how many people are lusting over the style, will it run the risk of becoming fatigued in my wardrobe? If you have the same fear of refusing to invest in it in case it becomes overexposed, I can assure you, especially as someone who has owned countless Réalisation Par dresses over the years, that each design is subversive and sensual in its own right, making them incredibly wearable without feeling repetitive, despite the unique print.

The Cora has quickly become my good time dress; the style I throw on to bring a high-octane touch to my ensembles or simply spark my serotonin, and I firmly believe that it will have the same effect on you. Because there’s no way you can wear something as vibrant and striking as this and not feel your best self. So, without further ado and before the style sells out again, shop the Réalisation Par Cora dress for yourself, below.

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I’ll admit, I’ve only recently added dresses to my wardrobe. For many years, I steered clear of the style in favour of mix-and-match sets and light tailoring, and honestly, I was missing out. After dipping my toe back into dresses in the spring months, I quickly found that after a few heatwaves, they have become the most dependable category in my wardrobe, and now that summer is in full swing, I’m on the hunt to bolster my collection. Starting at the basics, I set about finding the most sophisticated minimalist summer dresses that will hold their place in my wardrobe for many years to come. If you’re also interested, you’ll want to scroll on.

Whilst I may be new to the dress game, that doesn’t mean I’m easily swayed. As a shopping editor with almost a decade of experience, I’m well-versed in the particulars that make up a worthwhile purchase, and have applied them firmly to each of the styles below. With the help of the high street and high-end brands, I’ve brought together a series of refined dresses that will bring instant polish to any wardrobe, as well as a breezy respite on the warmest days.

From linen to cotton, maxi to mini, I’ve honed in on the best minimalist summer dresses for 2026. You’ll find best-sellers from Dôen and Reformation that continue to feel like current additions every single year. For summer 2026, fabrics have been updated to take on the warmest days, from breezy linen at James Perse to the organic cotton of Matteau's popular shirred dress. As minimalists, we tend to be drawn to more demure palettes of black and white, but alongside buttery yellow, soft blue and accents of pink are seamlessly slipping into our summer wardrobes right now. Whilst I've explored a variety of silhouettes, lengths and details, what binds these pieces together is that they're timeless, elegant and refined enough for even the most stringent minimalists. Now that the sunshine has arrived, it's time to explore the best minimalist dresses for summer 2026.

Shop the Best Minimalist Dresses for Summer 2026

At this point in the season, the summer standouts have earned their place. Linen trousers are the warm-weather answer to smart tailoring, pretty blouses are bringing a sweet edge to tough denim shorts and floaty skirts, and then there’s the most hardworking category of all: dresses. My dress collection is currently working overtime, taking on heatwaves, milder days, holidays and everything in between with ease, and recently I’ve noticed that one best-selling style has returned for another summer to lead the way as the timeless, sophisticated style that fashion people depend on every summer. Now, the Matteau Shirred Cotton Midi Dress is at the top of my wish list.

When it comes to dress shopping, I like mine timeless, elegant and understated. The kinds of dresses that can be worn with sandals yet still feel refined enough for dressier al fresco dinners. That’s where Matteau’s dress comes in, nestling comfortably into well-edited wardrobes across the globe. Whether strolling through the city or heading abroad, this versatile dress is well worth the investment.

Launching a few years ago, this exact style became an instant hit. The square neckline is instantly polished, with thin straps to nod to pared-back minimalism and soft ruching around the middle to create a sleek silhouette. It’s the kind of dress that you can throw on in the morning and will still feel the part when heading out for your daily coffee stroll and later swapping in mules for sunny drinks in the evening. Currently, the brown 100% cotton version is sitting in my basket, but you’ll also find the mini version and various colourways taking up space on my wish list right now. As it's in stock right now, I’ll be sure to check out right away, and if you’re interested, I’d recommend scrolling below.

Shop the Matteau Shirred Cotton Midi Dress

Shop More Worthwhile Summer Dresses

If you’re anything like me, you spent late spring planning out a series of intricate summer outfits which swiftly went out the window as soon as the first heatwave arrived. Instead, most days I find myself reaching for a reliable dress, a pair of sleek sandals and an oversized bag to see me through work, weekends and evening drinks. It’s a simple formula, and one that can prove incredibly effective when you have the right dress in tow. Now, from London to Paris, the most stylish people I know are all wearing the Aligne Jennie Cap Sleeve Linen Dress, and I've just added it to my basket.

Amidst a sea of summer dresses, it takes something particularly special to stand out. Now, Aligne has risen to the challenge. Looking closely, it's easy to see why the Jennie dress has become an instant favourite amongst the most stylish people around. It exudes sophistication, from the cap sleeves to the intricate fastenings through the centre, with the linen fabric grounding the style in daywear thanks to its breezy composition and natural crinkle. Paired with ballet flats, sandals or a sleek mule, it’s the kind of dress that screams elegance even when you only have five minutes to get ready (exactly my kind of dress).

Whilst there's been a flurry of sightings of the white version, the style does also come in a seriously covetable navy, too. Both will fit seamlessly into any well-curated wardrobe, ready to be paired with complementary neutrals or ignited with bolder accessories in vibrant shades. As soon as I caught onto the style, I added it to my basket. If you're interested, I suggest you move fast!

Shop the Aligne Jennie Cap Sleeve Linen Dress

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It may have taken well over a decade of working in the fashion industry, but I've got to the point that I can confidently say "I know good shopping." You won't find me making rash impulse purchases, nor do I bulk order and waste time on returns. Whenever something catches my eye, I can weigh up the wearability vs. cost, and I know almost immediately whether something is worth purchasing or not. This particular skill has come from years of buying the wrong thing and trying to make it work, but as an editor (and a stylist), you come to learn quite quickly what will work and what won't, and the same applies to brands.

Summer can be a tricky enough season for dressing without having to worry about whether your clothing will be breathable, comfortable and reliable too, and I've come to realise that some of the clothes that look best on the hanger don't deliver on all the fronts I need them to, something that urged me to put together this list. Whether contending with a heatwave, chilly spells, travelling abroad or sticking around for summer in the city, there are a handful of brands that I always have in my summer wardrobe, and I instantly know if someone has good taste (and an eye for quality) because they're sporting them too. So, before you sweat through another polyester top or are let down by flimsy linen, take note of the best contemporary fashion brands to shop for summer 2026. You can thank me later.

1. Posse

Style Notes: Sydney-based brand Posse was founded in 2016, but thanks to recently acquiring a dedicated space in Selfridges, it has quickly become known amongst UK editors for its slow approach to capsule wardrobe building and beach-ready separates. With A-list fans like Sofia Richie and Meghan Markle spotted in the brand's signature matching sets, this is the perfect premium label for those looking for pieces that will transition effortlessly from beach to city to country.

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2. Faithfull

Style Notes: Regular readers of Who What Wear UK will know just how often we come back to Faithful for well-crafted pieces with artisanal spirit. Based in Indonesia, each piece is hand-dyed and printed onto cotton, linen and silk, inspired by fabrics collected from vintage markets all over the world. Whether you're packing your suitcase or dressing for a warm weekend al-fresco, Faithfull knows how to do beautiful pieces that can transport you around the world, without the need for a passport.

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3. SIR

Style Notes: For further proof that Aussies have got summer dressing down to a fine art, SIR was founded in Sydney in 2014 by Nikki Campbell and Sophie Coote in a bid to champion minimalist wardrobe staples that work for an effortlessly elegant lifestyle. After growing from a modest, direct-to-consumer brand specialising in separates, intimates and ready-to-wear (and yes, that is where the acronym comes from), you can now shop SIR's chic prints and considered colour palette around the world.

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4. Malina

Style Notes: Thought that Scandinavian fashion was all black, white and exaggerated silhouettes? Malina turns this preconception on its head with bursts of colour, confidence and head-turning pieces that stand out against a relatively restrained backdrop. Scroll through the summer collections, and you'll find fine knits, fringe-trimmed hems, evening minis and the kind of statement kaftans that wouldn't look out of place on a yacht. This is (affordable) luxury dressing at its finest.

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5. Alemais

Style Notes: Colour! Prints! Opulence! Alemais' vibrant energy is dopamine dressing at its finest, and nothing says "summer" quite like the brand's silk co-ords, embroidered tunics and colourful swimwear. Steeped in artisanal craftspersonship and with an eye for exceptional detailing, these are the clothes that you reach for to instantly lift your spirits, and it should make you feel even better to know that the brand's low-impact ethos works to support the people in its supply chain and reduce the effect of production on the planet.

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6. Navygrey

Style Notes: Looking for basics that are anything but "basic"? Start at Navygrey for true wardrobe essentials. From light cotton tees to heavy-duty, chunky knits, these are the foundational pieces to build the rest of your capsule around, and the superior quality makes it worth spending a little more than high-street prices on pieces that you'll wear and rewear for years to come. (And take that from an editor who has amassed a collection of Navygrey knits that have singlehandedly seen me through the last couple of winters). New this season are crisp cotton shirts in the same oversized fit as the perfect, slouchy knits. I predict a best-seller…

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7. Rat and Boa

Style Notes: Party girls, maximalist dressers and intrepid explorers unite: Rat and Boa is the label for those who would never be described as a wallflower. Life and soul of the function (and always centre of attention), these sheer dresses, blouses and cover-ups are a staple in the holiday wardrobes of celebs like Emily Ratajkowski, Lila Moss and Bella Hadid, so if you have a stacked social calendar this summer, there's a Rat and Boa occasion dress that will meet the brief.

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8. Deiji Studios

Style Notes: Warm weather calls for breathability and comfort, and Deiji Studios delivers on this brief in spades. If you're in the market for loungewear that looks so good you can wear it both inside and outside the house, Deiji's cotton sets, shirts and relaxed pants are designed with simplicity and comfort in mind, making them ideal for sticky days that need minimal fuss, and warm evenings when you want to peel back the layers.

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9. Fruity Booty

Style Notes: Female-founded and London-based lingerie brand Fruity Booty fashions sustainable underwear and loungewear from recycled deadstock and surplus fabrics. Ask any influencer or editor, and they'll tell you that they either have one of the brand's soft bras or cheeky pants in their underwear drawer, but the ready-to-wear and swimwear deserve just as much attention; layering tops, camis, dresses and rompers that embody the spirit of a playful summer? Sign me up.

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10. TWP

Style Notes: For those not yet familiar with Trish Wescoat Pound's TWP, you're going to want to save this for later. One of the U.S.'s biggest names in luxury tailoring and elevated essentials is making its way across the pond, and the quiet momentum is sure to explode over the next year. Fans of Róhe, Khaite and Ralph Lauren will immediately gravitate towards TWP's preppy collared tops, knee-length skirts, shorts and unbelievably good-looking denim, but I've got a soft spot for the fine knits and silk dresses that channel modern-day CBK.

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11. Dissh

Style Notes: Last, but certainly not least, Dissh; another Aussie import that changed the way well-dressed Brits approach summer style. If your wardrobe suddenly featured shirred bodices, lace trousers or colour-blocked co-ords last year, it's likely the Dissh effect had something to do with it, and this season is set to be even cooler. Stock up now on the brand's dreamy midi dresses; not only are they perfect for beating the heat, but they'll still look just as good in 10 years, too.

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If you're stuck on what to wear this summer, I've just come across a chic, throw-on outfit formula that, based on my research, looks elegant on absolutely everyone. In a chic coincidence, I spotted two of the most stylish women I know—Daisy Edgar-Jones and Pamela Anderson—wearing almost the exact same summer ensemble, and I couldn't help but notice that it also felt distinctly French.

Both started with an elegant foundation: a flowing white cotton dress. Daisy chose Dôen's Adelaide Dress (£595), a longer-line embroidered style, while Pamela opted for a slightly shorter silhouette that still skimmed below the knee.

In another striking similarity, both styled woven white bandanas over their hair and accessorised with brown woven bags. While their shoe choices differed in colour, each swapped heels for elegant flat shoes.

A combination of easy elegance and relaxed femininity, the formula has subtle French energy to it. Polished, but not complicated, it's lightweight and comfortable enough to wear through the warmest summer days.

So, if you're looking for a throw-on outfit formula that always looks chic, keep scrolling to shop the look, along with my edit of the best white dresses and bandanas to recreate it.

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As soon as the high temperatures arrived, a switch occurred in my wardrobe. Whilst most of the year I spend my time in jeans and tailored trousers, suddenly dresses have returned to pride of place in my wardrobe, taking on coffee strolls, al fresco dinners and shopping trips with ease. With such a high rotation of dress outfits this summer, I found myself in need of something new, but naturally, it has to meet my high demands. I searched for a dress that looks incredibly expensive, sophisticated for all occasions and can work hard whether I'm in the city or heading abroad. Enter the Abercrombie & Fitch Dylan Bra-Free Dress hit the brief.

Abercrombie & Fitch is known for many things, from the beloved Sloane Trousers to excellent denim, and of course, the dresses. And instantly, the Dylan has become a beloved style amongst fashion people everywhere. The silhouette is so refined, with a basque waist, soft ruching around the bust, and the highlight—a built-in bra. The smocking on the back allows the style to fit snugly to your body, and with the three hem lengths and adjustable straps. The style comes in 100% cotton and a linen style, and now is also available in halterneck and mini versions!

As great high street buys do, this dress has been flying in and out of stock recently. Available in a series of sleek shades and prints, the style is proving incredibly popular for its sophisticated look and ease thanks to the bra-free design. But don’t worry, the styles do come back in stock, and it's a dress worth refreshing your search page for. Now, scroll on to shop the Abercrombie & Fitch Dylan Bra-Free Midi Dress.

Shop the Abercrombie & Fitch Dylan Bra-Free Dress

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Welcome to summer (and already the hottest on record)! After two heatwaves and a minor storm, figuring out what to wear on a daily basis feels that bit trickier than usual. Come rain or shine, easy outfit formulas are the cheat codes that get me through the seasons, and if there's one way to impress with your styling, it's looking rich.

Don't get me wrong, when I say expensive, I don't mean spending all of your hard earned cash on a new summer wardrobe. I simply mean re-wearing pieces in different combinations that give the impression that you always look elegantly "put together". All of the polished dressers I know have a formula for every single occasion, temperature and budget, and after feverishly taking notes, I’ve managed to narrow their looks down to some very easy-to-recreate outfit ideas that say "I spend my summers abroad".

As a relatively eclectic dresser, my own personal style shifts between classic minimalism and print clashing, so in putting together this list, I made sure there is something for everyone. Prints, sensible staples, crops for tall girls and skirts for petites, every outfit in this round up focuses on easy elegance that you can channel on a designer or a high street budget, and the result is a timeless summer fit that will invite compliments.

So if you too were looking for some inspiration on what to wear this summer that whispers wealth, then keep scrolling to see the seven rich-looking summer outfits chic dressers are wearing on repeat this summer.

1. Oxford Shirt + Cropped Trousers + Flip-Flops

Style Notes: I've lost count of how many different ways I've seen an Oxford shirt styled over the last couple of years, and never once has it been regrettable. Smart, chic and always the easiest thing to wear in a heatwave, Lucy's Oxford shirt and cigarette trousers combination brings a little bit of French styling to a British staple. And, if there's any focal point to discuss about this look, it's her choice of offsetting unexpected camel with a pop of poppy red. Rich-looking styling at it;s finest.

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2. Slip Dress + Flat Sandals

Style Notes: Okay, yes, silk and taffeta trousers are having a moment, but if we're talking longevity and not quick micro trends, the satin slip dress has to be up there with one of the greats. Throw on at a moment's notice and look like you're ready for elegant evening plans (even if it's a night in front of the TV). There's something about the fluid fit that always makes the wearer glow, and by pairing it with an easy, all-day sandal, you can keep the look going for hours and hours.

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3. Cotton Midi Dress + Basket Bag

Style Notes: As soon as the temperatures rise, you're going to want to trade in your restictive denim for something a little more breathable. Cute minis are always playful, and sweeping maxis bring the drama, but there's something about a fuss-free midi that makes it the perfect choice on the days when you don't know what to wear. White is always beautiful, but you'll get a little more wear out of black, and teaming it with a simple sandal and a basket bag has "summer" written all over it.

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4. White Tee + Printed Skirt + Kitten Heels

Style Notes: Wondering how to dress up a plain white tee? How about with a little print? For those who want to look rich without overdoing it, maximalist prints and monogramming are a big no-no. Polka dots, however? Well, they conjure up images of summers in Capri, sat on top of a Vespa. The Italians might prefer classic black and white polka dot dresses, but there's something about this cute, yellow knee length skirt that speaks to the 90's city girl aesthetic, and that get's a big yes from me.

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5. Camisole + Tailored Trousers + Sandals

Style Notes: Silky satins are back again, but this time in another guise —the eternally chic camisole. A little bit "underwear-as-outerwear", a little bit "hot-weather-proof" practicality, the lace-trimmed cami has been everywhere this summer, making a welcome change from the usual jersey tank tops. Keep things really elevated by adding a tailored, wide-leg trouser and a leather flip-flop for an easy desk-to-dinner option with just the change of a lipstick.

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6. Slogan Tee + Baggy Trousers + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Hear me out, there's something inherently rich about not wanting to look like you've made too much effort, and a slogan tee and baggy trousers are the deceptively cool off-duty look as championed by the likes of Victoria Beckham, Pedro Pascal and Hailey Bieber. Emma's exact Gimaguas tee [above] is still available, but if you're more of a plain tee person, stick with this bold colour clash by wearing primary colours with black tailoring for a nod to the statement-making contrast..

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7. Black on Black

Style Notes: Too much fuss is made over summer whites when there is conclusive proof like this that black is just as good (if not better). If I could recommend any "expensive looking" styling hack, I'd always start with head-to-toe colour drenching, you won't ever have to think about what "goes" with what, because everything does, and adding points of interest in the bag and the shoes makes this an outfit well worth repeating time and again if not just for the compliments alone.

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When it's near-30 degrees with no air conditioning and a perpetually sweaty back, certain elements of daily life need not apply. Namely: jeans, buttons, zips, buckles and anything else that requires effort. Some of the best-dressed French women seem to have this entirely sussed, opting for the one-and-done hero piece to carry many an outfit: the dress. And as this snapshot of the coolest—literally and figuratively—French girl summer dress outfits proves, there's a near-limitless number of aesthetics to choose from.

Think: the sleek and sexy leopard print, paired with a peep-toe mule. The cotton frock and boots—equal parts twee and entirely on trend. The casual T-shirt dress, most relaxed of all, elevated by a cape-like design and a black leather flip flop. Each all falling under the summer dress outfit inspo board while catering to completely different personal styles.

Scroll on to choose your fighter and embrace faff-free summer dressing.

6 French Girl Summer Dress Outfits to Moodboard

1. Punchy Polka Dot Maxi + Raffia Bag

Style Notes: Bold polka dots may be a summer mainstay, but it's not just the Minnie Mouse variety getting airtime anymore. Consider a more abstract print worn off the shoulder for a modern holiday-ready look, paired with a black raffia bag—yes, they come in more colours than brown straw—and simple sandals.

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2. T-Shirt Dress + Black Flip Flops

Style Notes: If it's an out-the-door-in-minutes outfit you're after, look no further than Sylvie Mus' T-shirt dress and flip flop combination. Swapping the expected black, white or grey for navy makes it feel less predictable, particularly when the style in question has cape-like sleeves.

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3. Black Sheer Maxi + Bandana

Style Notes: Every iteration of headwear has done the rounds on the best-dressed women on the internet this summer: hats, caps, headscarves, crochet bonnets and bandanas among them. Any one of which will make a sheer black maxi considerably more interesting, especially when paired with a bold pump.

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4. White Cotton Frock + Chunky Boots

Style Notes: Few of us want to wear wellies in near-30-degree heat—sweaty feet, noted—but the premise of this look stands: a white floaty sundress and boots. The bigger the flounce, the stronger the contrast against the chunky boot. Personally, I'd go for a mid-calf brown leather.

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5. Leopard Print Slip Dress + Peep-Toe Mule

Style Notes: Leopard print has long had a subversively sexy appeal, flitting between kitsch and cool with impressive consistency. With leopard print jeans, trainers, belts and bags all having their moment in recent years, it seems the pattern may be even more popular now than it was in the 00s. Though the Carrie Bradshaw approach to styling—peep-toe mules, logo bag—still feels just as sleek.

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6. Sailor Striped Mini Dress + Gladiator Sandals

Style Notes: If you're in search of an outfit that feels instantly holiday-ready—even if your trip only involves the local lido—nautical stripes are one of the easiest answers. To really lean into the just-got-back-from-the-beach look, opt for crochet or knitted cotton fabrics and rope detailing, and style with extravagant gladiator sandals. They'll instantly make a daytime look feel more evening-ready.

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If I'm ever looking for petite styling inspiration—and, as a fashion writer with a circle of petite friends, I often am—Nicola Coughlan is always my first port of call. Wearable and always elevated, her outfits often make their way into my group chats. And now, as we settle into summer, the actor has stepped out in the dress-and-shoe combination I'll be recommending to my petite friends all season long.

Attending an event in London this week, Nicola stepped out in a petite-friendly minidress. Designed with long sleeves and a voluminous bubble-hem skirt, the playful style elongated her legs, creating a balanced silhouette. Rather than leaning into obvious sandals or Mary Janes, however, Nicola elevated the look with a pair of sleek pointed-toe heels.

The elongated toe shape extends the line of the leg, enhancing the lengthening effect of the shorter hemline. Whilst the bubble-hem dress tapped into one of the season's biggest trends, it was the sophisticated shoe pairing that made the outfit feel especially chic.

Elegant and uncomplicated, read on to shop my edit of the best bubble-hem minidresses and pointed-toe heels below.

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There are few things chicer than an Elsa Hosk outfit. Any fashion editor can confirm. She often combines multiple of-the-moment trends into one outfit and does so in the most effortless of ways. The latest summer trends she combined made for an easy outfit I highly recommend copying.

For starters, the summer 2026 dress trend Hosk wore was a sleep dress. In case you're wondering why, exactly, people are wearing sleep dresses outside, let me explain. It's basically a term given to loose-fitting, unstructured summer dresses with pretty, vintage-inspired details such as ruffled trims, bows, and eyelets. If you were to actually sleep in a dress, this style would be a good one to do so in. They're often white (as Hosk's was) but certainly don't need to be.

With her puff-sleeve sleep dress, Hosk wore the closed-toe shoe trend (sorry, sandals) I want to make sure is on your radar: bright blue flats. It may seem a bit specific, but ocean-adjacent shades such as aquamarine and cerulean are a major colour theme this summer, and flat shoes are one of the forms in which people are embracing it.

Scroll on to see Hosk's sleep-dress-and-blue-flats outfit for yourself (along with another recent occasion in which she wore the sleep-dress trend), and shop similar styles for yourself.

Shop Elsa Hosk's Exact Sleep Dress Outfit:

On Elsa Hosk: Sandy Liang Daikon Dress (£322); Saint Laurent Panier Medium Bag in Raffia Tote Bag (£1595); Chanel shoes

Another Elsa Hosk Sleep-Dress Outfit

On Elsa Hosk: Helsa Midi Dress With Lace in Tech Poplin (£137); Polo Ralph Lauren Logo Cotton Twill Ball Cap (£94)

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Shop Blue Ballet Flats

Before the summer season started, I had dreams of waking up early and meticulously planning each outfit to ensure I looked polished in the warm weather. However, it will be unsurprising to learn that, two heatwaves in, this plan has completely gone out of the window. Now, I’m only interested in easy, throw-on pieces that feel effortless without compromising on elegance. The best summer staple for this? A dress, of course, and recently I’ve been spotting both a particular high-street iteration on both fashion people and editors alike. And if you’re a minimalist like me, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s anti-trend, elegant and, most importantly, requires little effort to style. Enter With Nothing Underneath’s linen mini dress.

Made from 100% linen and created in 5 different colours, With Nothing Underneath’s mini dress collection contains 2 different silhouettes: the Jackie dress with a round-neck tailored style and the Sloane, which comes with a flattering low V-neckline and shift body. Both dresses are lightweight throw-on styles that can be dressed down for the day with flat sandals and a raffia tote, or up for summer evenings with a pair of kitten heels and a statement clutch.

After spotting my fellow Who What Wear editor, Florrie, in the red Sloane dress, I’m now fully convinced that it’s the perfect addition to the effortlessly chic capsule wardrobe I’m aiming to recreate for 2026. Not to mention that the timeless silhouettes of both dresses ensure that they’ll last in my wardrobe for many more summers to come. Keep scrolling to shop With Nothing Underneath’s linen mini dress collection, and then take a browse at some more linen mini dresses I have my eye on.

Shop With Nothing Underneath Linen Mini Dresses

Shop More Linen Mini Dresses I Love

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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Stepping out for one of London's most glamorous nights of the year, Sienna Miller arrived at the Serpentine Summer Party in Hyde Park yesterday evening in an outfit I've been desperate to discuss. If you'd asked me to describe Miller's personal style before last night, the word "boho" would have left my lips before you'd even finished the question. But for this particular occasion, she traded her free-spirited staples for a sleek slip dress-and-heels combination that Carrie Bradshaw herself would have wholeheartedly approved of.

Leaning into the naked dress trend that's become synonymous with red-carpet dressing, Sienna offered her own take on the look. Choosing a satin slip dress in a glossy champagne hue, the actor created an elevated barely-there effect with the complexion-matching dress.

Forgoing predictable black heels, Miller slipped into a pair of gold strappy sandals, adding a luminous, light-catching finish that complemented the sheen of her dress. Elegant and summery, the metallic footwear gave the ensemble a polished, party-ready feel, whilst her Ara Vartanian Desert diamonds added to the glamorous energy.

Avoiding seasonal stereotypes, Miller layered a Conner Ives fur-trimmed silk jacket in the softest shade of green over the ensemble. Whilst Carrie might have paired the look with high-volume curls, Miller opted for a heatwave-ready bun. Aside from that subtle difference, it's easy to imagine this outfit slotting into Carrie's own collection.

Inspired by this look? Keep scrolling to shop my edit of the best slip dresses and gold heeled sandals below.

Shop Champagne Slip Dresses and Gold Heels:

As a fashion editor, there’s an almost smug sensibility that comes with wearing a specific silhouette long before it became a viral sensation, which is exactly how I feel about the rise of the rosette dress trend.

For the uninitiated, a rosette is a form of protruding floral appliqué that adds a romantic and botanical appeal to any ensemble, especially a balmy summer dress. I first fell in love with them after stumbling into Pico Copenhagen, which is a Danish accessories boutique styled with dark lacquered wood that gives the saccharine brooches and hairpins it stocks an almost old-school apothecary feel. Now, I’m never far from the style, fixing my candy-coloured and peony-inspired styles to the lapels of my jackets, tying my lily-esque styles into my hair in lieu of a ribbon, or simply tacking them onto my shirt for some extra dimension.

So, naturally, when I saw the first inclinations of a rosette dress redux, my interest was naturally piqued. Leading this trend is none other than Réalisation Par, a brand revered for its ethereal prints and dreamlike silhouettes. Their new Mount Street boutique in Mayfair is nothing short of retail heaven, and it was alongside the curated antiques and analogue film photobooth that Olivia Dean picked up one of the London-based brand’s rosette dresses.

Leaning into the effortless elegance and soft glamour of the cap-sleeve style, the Grammy Award-winning musician posted a photo of herself wearing it whilst on a tour break in Italy. Anointing the dress as the defining style of the season, she juxtaposed the graceful, floral detailing against the scintillating backdrop of Taormina in Sicily, proving it a staple for balmy clients and cool summer wardrobes.

Of course, those who keep a close eye on the trend cycle would be acutely aware that the rosette dress trend is just one of a series of nostalgic trends that have come back from the late ‘90s and early ‘00s. The earliest proponent of this trend in popular culture would be none other than Carrie Bradshaw.

Often seen running around Manhattan, be it meeting her girlfriends on Saturday morning at their local brunch spot or skulking around the Upper East Side in the evening at a cocktail bar with Mr Big, the beloved fictional columnist was never far from the oversized motif, making it one of her most defining fashion legacies in the years since the show’s end. (Though there was a small but memorable reprisal of the rosette in And Just Like That.)

When a trend has earned the approval of the It girl pack for decades, it’s enough to collectively acquiesce that rosette dresses are indeed in bloom. Plus, with Matthieu Blazy rendering Gabrielle Chanel’s favourite flower, the camellia, in technicolour hues for his creations at the helm of the French maison and Dior’s Jonathan Anderson well invested in his sartorial green thumb, this form of garden-inspired dressing has endorsements from the upper echelons of fashion, too.

As Harry Styles, another known purveyor of the trend, said, everything’s coming up roses…

Shop the Rosette Dress Trend for Summer 2026

With summer on the horizon, the new collections have officially landed, and one in particular is all I can think about. This summer, H&M is leaning into what it does best, blending trending items with timeless accents, updating our classics and bolstering our capsule wardrobes with a series dose of sophistication at a fraction of the price. With so many sleek pieces in the new arrivals section, I decided to take a break from the sunshine and spend a few hours putting these expensive-looking items to the test. Now, I’ve curated a refined summer edit entirely of H&M new-in buys.

My personal style is based on high-low dressing, which means I like to mix my high-street buys with a few luxury accents. Of all the affordable pieces I own, I get the most compliments on my H&M treasures. From elegant dresses to sleek linen sets, so many of my friends and colleagues have been convinced that I’ve spent a fortune updating my summer wardrobe, when in fact a few affordable additions from H&M have done the heavy lifting for me.

Whilst many wouldn’t want to escape the sunshine for a changing room, H&M’s new collection made it worthwhile. What makes this collection feel particularly elevated are the colourways, proportions and fabrics. Longline lengths add a grown-up edge to shorts, flowing maxi dresses are designed to float through the hot summer days, and cool wrap details are applied to shirts to freshen them up as we head into the new season. In my selection, a healthy dose of cotton and linen has been applied for a breezy edge, from the best-selling linen to the airy blouses. Alongside, you'll notice a touch of polish from intricate details of embroidery and Broderie anglaise, making our sweet tops and relaxed shorts feel a little more considered this season. Now, let's dive straight into the most expensive-looking buys that are sure to sell out first, and more elegant H&M buys that I spotted along the way.

Shop the Rich-Looking H&M That Will Sell Out First

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We're currently in the midst of our second heatwave, which means I've reached the point in summer where I want exactly one thing from my wardrobe: an easy dress. The kind that looks polished with minimal effort, feels comfortable in soaring temperatures and requires little more than a pair of sandals and a great bag. This year, the dress trend ticking every box? Embroidered dresses—and Zara and H&M are leading the charge.

There's something about embroidery that instantly elevates a dress. Whether it's delicate eyelet detailing, intricate cutwork or broderie anglaise panels, these subtle details bring texture, interest and a touch of romance to even the simplest silhouette. They feel feminine without being overly sweet and add that expensive-looking quality fashion people are always searching for in summer.

The beauty of the trend lies in its versatility. This season, embroidered details can be found on everything from breezy minis and easy daytime midis to dramatic floor-skimming maxis. Whilst white remains the perennial favourite, I'm also seeing beautiful navy, butter yellow, soft pink and rich red iterations that feel equally timeless. Effortless, elegant and surprisingly practical in hot weather, embroidered dresses are quickly becoming the chic woman's answer to summer dressing.

Keep scrolling to shop the best embroidered dresses from Zara and H&M.

Shop the Best Embroidered Dresses From Zara and H&M:

Dressing for the peak of summer is no easy feat—and if you're hoping to maintain an air of elegance through a heatwave, it becomes all the more challenging. But if my years in the fashion industry have taught me anything, it's that navigating the season's hottest days becomes significantly easier with the help of a throw-on dress trend that chic French women—and, as I've recently noticed, Bella Hadid—always return to.

Lightweight, airy and polished, cotton minidresses are the heatwave hero I'm recommending to everyone right now. Just this week, Bella Hadid was spotted lounging on a sofa in a white cotton minidress featuring delicate ruffled sleeves and an elegant scoop neckline. Styled with pink lace mules, layered jewellery and a bottle of Orabella perfume in hand, her romantic look felt elevated in the least fussy way.

Breathable and lightweight, with a body-skimming silhouette that allows for plenty of airflow, cotton minidresses offer the kind of comfort that's essential during a heatwave.

Whilst this trend is certainly not new, these throw-on dresses do feel more relevant than ever this season. With cult labels such as Dôen and If Only If—both known for their romantic, gauzy cotton designs—embracing shorter hemlines, there's an abundance of chic options to choose from.

Inspired to approach summer dressing the Bella Hadid way? Scroll on to discover the cotton minidresses I recommend right now below.

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With ethereal, darling prints, romantic silhouettes and elegant lace-trims, Dôen’s dreamy dresses have become an indispensable part of summer dressing for the most refined amongst us. Yet, with each passing season, the California-based brand, whose designs are underscored by a nostalgic sensibility and breezy effortlessness, seems to outdo the last, offering new interpretations of light, airy, and whimsical pieces that embody the sun-kissed sensibility the brand is known for.

It’s these exact qualities that make the brand synonymous with summer dressing, especially amongst fashion’s most influential, who seek out considered, contemporary and cool styles that imbue their days with a graceful and calming touch. But when it comes to cult styles, it’s Dôen’s Daphne dress that certainly is the most covetable.

You'll no doubt have seen the Dôen Daphne dress everywhere, roaming through charming inner-city streets or wandering through bucolic landscapes in its mini cut, billowing puff sleeves and embroidered accents. For the uninitiated, the Dôen Daphne dress is by no means a new style; however, it has just been released in a charming new botanical print, breathing new life into a trusted reliable.

With a delicate baby blue ribbon that runs along the neckline and an enchanting floral print that looks like it could’ve been taken from the wallpaper of some 17th-century French château, it resonates with those seeking a softer take on throw-on-and-go dressing, whilst looking incredibly polished, refined and luxuriously understated. That is to say, anyone who wants to look as heavenly as Kirsten Dunst as Lux Lisbon in Sofia Coppola’s The Virgin Suicides.

Now, this might sound contrarian, but despite my adoration for Doen, I’m actually yet to invest in one of the brand’s pieces, as much as I regularly lust over them. Yet with consecutive co-signs from the celebrity style set, enduring appeal and inherent sweetness, I know this is the summer dress worth my investment.

I have a few major milestones on the horizon, too—a trip to Mariselle and an engagement party, just to name a few—and this is the piece I envision seeing me through every balmy and blissful moment. Sophisticated and understated in equal measure, shop the viral beloved piece below and uncover more of Dôen’s divine pieces, ahead.

Shop the Dôen Daphne Dress:

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As soon as June rolls around, every year—like clockwork—I find myself making a beeline for M&S’s dress section. The retailer has become the destination for elegant, expensive-looking summer dresses, and every year there’s one style that rises above the rest. This season, the Satin Skater Dress has taken the crown.

With its chic square neckline, delicate pin-tuck detailing and glossy satin finish, it feels remarkably elevated. Available in chic white, blush pink and classic black, it’s exactly the sort of dress that looks just as good with simple sandals on holiday as it does dressed up for summer events.

Already gaining traction on TikTok and Instagram and in the wardrobes of the chicest women I know, this M&S dress is unlikely to stay in stock for long. Keep scrolling to shop it below.

Shop The M&S Viral Dress

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I'll admit, I spend an inordinate amount of time scanning the Zara website. Almost every day, I find myself perusing the new-in section, whether it's part of my workday or off-duty downtime. The hours of exploring can generally result in a few new additions to my wish list, but occasionally I find myself wanting the expensive-looking offerings of Zara, but with a slightly more grown-up twist. That's when I turn to Massimo Dutti. Zara's older sister brand follows the same way of creating rich-looking buys at affordable prices, but with an added dose of sophistication. Naturally, on my stroll home from work the other day, I decided to stop by and see what Massimo Dutti's summer collection has to offer. Personally, I think it's the best collection to date.

Whilst Zara swings between trending buys and timeless additions, Massimo Dutti takes a more focused approach. The brand's best pieces are frequently mistaken for investment buys as the designs focus on clean lines, pared-back silhouettes and a focus on anti-trend pieces that will go the distance. Compared to its high street counterpart, the pieces from Massimo Dutti can come in at a slightly higher price point, but the timeless edge in each creation ensures that they'll earn their keep in your wardrobe for years to come.

Looking to the summer collection, Massimo Dutti is celebrating what it does best. Staples are back by way of 100% linen shirts in an array of demure and bolder shades, well-cut trousers with crisp pleating and classic dresses that ooze sophistication from every angle. What makes this high street brands' pieces look so high-end is the attention to silhouette, intricate design additions like sharp pleats and soft ruching, and high-quality fabrics from linen to cotton that both look and feel luxurious. Below, I've pulled together a refined edit of the chicest pieces from the summer collection. One piece can instantly rejuvenate your summer looks, and together they'll make for an elegant capsule wardrobe to see you through this summer and many more to come.

Shop the 9 Most Expensive-Looking Massimo Dutti Buys:

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