31 best summer dresses you're already seeing all over Instagram
Shop well and the best summer dresses will become pieces that can be wheeled out every season, not just every year. It's imperative now, more than ever, that we make smart purchases and spend our money in areas we'll see a good return – so if treating yourself to a ‘do it all’ summer dress is going to achieve that for you, then we wholeheartedly support the investment. They'll be the silhouettes that see you through 'til its time to dig out your knitwear again, after all.
As per usual, there's a smorgasbord of shapes, lengths, colours and fabrics to choose from for 2024, but if you're struggling with where to look first, let the SS runways guide you.
White is the hue to go for according to the Victoria Beckham and Valentino runways (as well as at Coperni, Stella McCartney, Gabriel Hearst, Michael Kors, Prada, Dior, Christopher Esber and so on), so take a leaf out of your engaged/soon-to-be-wed friend's book and set your sights on the ethereal shade for the season ahead.
And as for the materials? Linens and lightweight, breathable cottons are a good place to start. You'll thank yourself for it on those warm and stuffy days where anything too clingy will make you feel claustrophobic. There's truly nothing worse.
Luckily, though, that's something the high-street has nailed. Sheer silhouettes and cut-out dresses are big news at H&M, Zara and M&S, while floaty frocks are two a penny elsewhere. Maxi and midi dresses will, of course, always remain a comfort blanket for most of us, but don't shy too far from the miniature hemlines – they're everywhere this summer and your pins will be grateful for the hit of vitamin D.
Looking for brand specific summer dresses? These are the best & Other Stories summer dresses, ASOS dresses and H&M summer dresses. There's also modest summer dresses and summer dresses with sleeves if you want to cover up a bit more, Don't forget to also shop the best wedding guest dresses and bridesmaid dresses, swimwear brands, summer loungewear, beach dresses and summer workwear. For more from GLAMOUR UK's Senior Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd.