Summer dressing is one of the most joyful things about the season. The warmer months welcome holiday staples, from breezy linen trousers to mini shift dresses, while our glowing tans allow us to embrace the colour white without looking like a sickly Victorian child. (No shade btw, we're also *so* here for this fashion subculture, defined by pale aesthetics, ghost-like vintage layering, and frail accessories, like hair ribbons and delicate knitted shawls.)
However, this season, it's all about folklore rather than 19th-century romance. Because fairy dresses have become the prettiest, most flattering trend of the season, thanks to their whimsical and bohemian blend. Defined by fluttery ruffles, lace, and a dreamlike aesthetic, these free-spirited pieces are also incredibly cool and comfortable to wear in the heat. And, we're not sure if you've noticed, but this summer has been hot.
So, if you're looking for the perfect fairy dress to wear throughout the rest of the season, we've found it. Coming from Next, this white flutter sleeve square neck dress ticks all the trend boxes, from its frill sleeve detail to flowy midi length skirt. Other features include the square neckline, which gives major European medieval vibes, while the adjustable tie waist ensures a flattering, customised fit. Plus, retailing for just £52, the dress looks way more expensive than it is.
Now to the styling bit. This trend is all about being effortless, and less is most definitely more. Let the dress do the talking, whether it's for casual or formal purposes. In terms of the former, simply pair with some light flip-flops or orthopeadic-esque sturdy sandals to tap into the granny aesthetic. Or, if you're dressing up for a special occasion, may we suggest an espadrille wedge, which has made quite the comeback recently. For the latter, some gold jewellery wouldn't go amiss either, from some statement stud earrings to a sweet locket.
Keen to add more fairy dresses to your collection? Scroll down for some of our favourite high street offerings:
Laura Ashley Pink Cassington Spray Ruffle Dress
True Decadence Tiered ruffle v-neck maxi dress in soft rust
Light Yellow Short Sleeve Shirred Frill Midi Dress
ZW COLLECTION EMBROIDERED RUFFLE DRESS
Sophie Williams is a Freelance Journalist and Copywriter, covering everything from Fashion to Entertainment to music, Lifestyle and Features. She has interviewed a range of musical artists and authors including Alyssa Edwards, Courtney Barnett, Confidence Man, The Vaccines, Loyle Carner, Gabrielle, and John Niven, and has written for publications like Metro, Reader's Digest, ITV's Woo! and Vice’s NBGA. She is also working on a book for HarperCollins about Taylor Swift, due to be published in 2024.
