When I think about the joys of summer, my mind goes straight to the ease of throwing on a dress and spending long evenings wandering around the city with nowhere in particular to be. Every year, winter lovers tell me there's nothing better than coats and knitwear, but I can't help thinking they've simply never experienced the joy of finding the ultimate summer dress. You know the one: it fits like a glove, feels like an extension of your personality, and earns compliments before you've even ordered your first spritz.
I'm a true summer lover, and that extends to getting dressed. Fewer layers, more skin, and best of all, an entire outfit made up of just one piece. Whether you're after an easy everyday staple or a showstopper for weddings, holidays and rooftop drinks, these are the summer dresses I'm loving right now for every occasion.
The Work Dress
Getting dressed for work shouldn't feel like a challenge, especially when the temperature starts creeping into heatwave territory. Thankfully, M&S has done the hard work for us with this Mesh Checked Midi Dropped Waist Dress. The breathable silhouette keeps things comfortable, while the dropped waist gives it a modern feel that doesn't sacrifice professionalism. Just add ballet flats or a kitten heel, and you've got an office outfit you'll actually look forward to wearing.
M&S Mesh Checked Midi Dropped Waist Dress
The Ultimate Wedding Guest Dress
OG influencer Callie Thorpe's collaboration with Monsoon is everything I'd hoped it would be, and this One-Shoulder Scallop Kaftan Dress, complete with a matching scarf, is the standout piece of the collection. Ideal for a summer wedding guest dress, it's dramatic in all the right ways without the risk of overshadowing the bride. Better still, it earns its keep long after the big day. Pack it for your Euro summer and wear it for sunset dinners, cocktails or any occasion that calls for a little main-character energy.
Callie Thorpe x Monsoon One-Shoulder Scallop Kaftan Dress & Scarf Brown
Callie Thorpe x Monsoon One-Shoulder Scallop Kaftan Dress & Scarf Brown
The White Dress
A floaty, white dress feels like a compulsory part of summering. But instead of reaching for the usual baby doll silhouette, level up with this ARRANGE puffball hem dress. It strikes the perfect balance between playful and polished, making it one of those rare pieces that works just as well for brunch as it does for a summer event. I styled mine with my favourite chunky FitFlop sandals for an effortlessly cool look, but add a strappy heel and gold jewellery, and you're instantly occasion-ready.
ARRANGE ARRANGE Curve premium waisted dress with puffball hem in ecru
The Holiday Dress
Nothing says ‘I've officially switched off’ quite like slipping into a Never Fully Dressed strappy dress on holiday. The Rio Laragh Dress has all the ingredients for the perfect getaway outfit: a breezy tiered silhouette, a vibrant print, and enough colour to make accessorising ridiculously fun. I naturally leaned into my maximalist tendencies with bright orange accessories, but that's the beauty of this dress – the print gives you endless styling possibilities. It's practically made for rooftop cocktails and poolside dinners in the Mediterranean.
Never Fully Dressed Rio Laragh Dress
The Everyday Staple Dress
A gingham dress in summer just makes sense, and Next has absolutely nailed it with this one. It's the kind of piece you'll find yourself reaching for on repeat, whether you're heading out for a Sunday coffee, wandering around a farmers' market or meeting friends for lunch. Effortless is the word that comes to mind. Throw it on with trainers, sandals or clogs – it doesn't matter, the dress has already done all the heavy lifting.
Next Chocolate Brown Gingham Bandeau Maxi Dress
As the temperatures rise, staying cool is just as important as looking stylish. The best summer dresses do both, leaving you feeling as confident and comfortable as you look.
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Lauren Nicole Coppin Campbell is the Contributing Curve Editor of Cosmopolitan UK. The former curve model and digital content creator has worked in the fashion industry, specialising in plus-size fashion content, for six years. Known for her excellent eye for style, captivating imagery and witty sense of humour to match, Lauren Nicole continues to inspire women to live boldly through their clothes.
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