For many, this is around the time each year when we stow away the winter coats and fleece things and start shopping for new summer dresses. Since we didn't really have anywhere to wear dresses these past couple of summers, many are predicting that revenge dressing and the subsequent return to dressing up will be not just the norm this summer but also more prevalent than ever. This explains why there have been more than a few dresses popping up on my Instagram feed, many of which are pretty risqué.
These controversial dress microtrends may not be for the faint of heart, but they will get plenty of likes on Instagram (until they can actually be worn for a fun night out). Disclaimer: If skin-exposing dresses aren't your thing, these dresses may not be your thing. But if they are, you've come to the right place. Read on to find out which controversial dress trends are heating up for summer and to shop chic options for each style.
1. Sheer
If it seems like sheer dresses are a thing every summer, you're certainly not wrong. Something as beautiful and breathable as a sheer dress is tailor-made for warm summer nights. Of note this summer, in particular, are sheer ruched dresses. Consider it a micro microtrend.
2. Y2K
In case you haven't noticed, Y2K everything is everywhere right now, from jewellery to prints to jeans. When it comes to dresses, look out for butterflies, cowl necks, extreme cutouts and bandage styles.
3. Peekaboo
The peekaboo styles that are trending may not be bra-friendly or underwear-friendly, but they're very popular right now nonetheless. Every single one that I come across is nearly sold out.
4. Lingerie Inspired
Given the popularity of bustiers and corsets, you may have noticed that lingerie-inspired clothing that's meant to be worn outdoors is having a moment. Just be sure to wear your dress with substantial accessories so that it isn't mistaken for actual lingerie.
5. Micro Minis
The spring/summer 2022 runways clued us in to the fact that mini lengths would be the 2022 hemline of choice. After two years spent in sweatpants, we can't really be surprised about this one.
6. Low Back
The low-back dress is certainly one of the most beautiful of the controversial dress trends, and there are tons of options to choose from. I narrowed it down as best I could…
Next Up: 15 Cult Buys You're About to See Everywhere This Summer
-
This Dress Trend Isn't New, But It's Blowing Up Again This SummerIt's too pretty to ignore.
-
I Just Tried on Reformation's Best-Selling Dress and Now I'm 110 Per Cent ObsessedSo polished. So comfortable.
-
Finally, the Elegant High Street Dress I Want to Wear All Summer Is Back in StockAnd now it's 20% off!
-
So Elegant, So Effortless—This Expensive-Looking Dress Trend Is Taking Over Zara, M&S and MangoA capsule-wardrobe hero.
-
I Tried On So Many Pretty Dôen Dresses—These 5 Are the Crème de la CrèmeEasy, breezy, beautiful.
-
It Might Be Déjà Vu, But I Think This Simple Dress Trend Is Destined to Rule SummerIt has some noteworthy fans.
-
No Lie—This Throw-On Linen Dress Is the Chicest Thing on the High Street Right NowHear me out.
-
H&M Just Released a £35 Version of Autumn's Most Dominant Runway TrendDid I mention that it's already on sale? Run.
