One-shoulder tops and dresses are the nostalgic styles that are bringing all the summery vibes

One shoulder dress

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One-shoulder tops and dresses are the nostalgic styles that are bringing all the summery vibes

By Harriet Davey

4 years ago

Meet the asymmetric tops and dresses that are about to elevate your spring/summer 2021 outfits.

If the spurts of sunshine have given you a mood boost, you’re not alone. Giving us all a much-needed hit of vitamin D, it’s surprising the joy a bit of sun can bring. With it comes the arrival of summer clothes and we couldn’t be more excited about all the fresh spring/summer 2021 trends.

If it isn’t white frothy dresses that are gaining everyone’s undivided attention, it’s the arrival of some of this season’s chicest cross-body bags that allow you to go out hands-free. Back to dresses, and there’s another key style that’s proving popular once again: one-shoulder. The asymmetric detail loved in the 90s is here to make you feel nostalgic, and it’s also updating all the ‘nice tops’ to wear with jeans.

Whether it’s a top or dress with one shoulder, or it has just the one sleeve, it’s all about the mismatched look that’s bringing all the summer vibes. Perfect for those in-between weather days, meet the tops and dresses that can be worn with other 90s favourites; from loose-fit jeans to oversized leather blazers and chunky trainers. 

Shop one-shoulder tops and dresses

Topshop top

Topshop top

In-between weather days? No problem. Weave knitwear into your spring/summer looks by opting for a one-sleeve style. This bubblegum pink Topshop number is ticking all the boxes. 

Shop Topshop spliced one-shoulder jumper at Asos, £22.99

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French Connection dress

French Connection dress

Channel the dancing girl emoji (in a chic way), with this sassy red midi dress. The metallic detail and floaty asymmetric sleeve makes it a 360-degree winner. 

Shop Fayola one-shoulder midi dress at French Connection, £95

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River Island top

River Island top

The floral print version of this top has nearly sold out online, so we predict this pink iteration will have the same effect. Get it before it goes and team with a silky slip skirt for evening plans. 

Shop pink one-shoulder top at River Island, £24

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Baum Und Pferdgarten top

Baum Und Pferdgarten top

In tan or a spot print, this puff sleeve top with flattering ruched detail is the ‘nice top’ to add to your favourite jeans. It’ll also look so good with an oversized blazer over the top, too. 

Shop Monessa top at Baum Und Pferdgarten, £109

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We Are Kin top

We Are Kin top

Sustainable brand We Are Kin is a go-to for elevated basics. The black top you know and love? Update it with this one shoulder style made from end-of-line materials and you’ll never regret it. 

Shop The Athena top at We Are Kin, £100

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Matteau dress

Matteau dress

The ultimate destination for a timeless summer dress, Matteau has nailed the one-shoulder look with this khaki style. Pair with chunky sandals, gold chain jewellery and a basket bag.

Shop Matteau cutout poplin dress at Matches, £405

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Bernadette dress

Bernadette dress

A ‘wow’ dress if ever we’ve seen one, this perfect pink mini dress will see you to every upcoming event, in serious style. Try it out with a slick of red lippie and white heeled mules to make a statement. 

Shop Bernadette Benedicte one-shoulder taffeta mini dress at Matches, £450

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Mango top

Mango top

In cream, black or tan, this cutout style asymmetric top is the new basic to rely on. With jeans, shorts or a midi skirt, you’ll wear it on repeat from here on out. 

Shop asymmetric top at Mango, £15.99

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Nanushka dress

Nanushka dress

Proving the black dress never fails to impress, this one-sleeve style with side tie detail is a beauty. Dress it down with 90s chunky trainers and up with lace-up-the-leg sandals and a grab clutch bag. 

Shop Aram dress at Nanushka, £565

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Sika dress

Sika dress

Aside from the gorgeous prints, cuts and details, most of Sika’s dresses also have cleverly hidden pockets in the designs. Making occasion wear dresses practical, they’re also handmade in Ghana so each one is unique. 

Shop Peridot dress at Sika, £249

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Peony dress

Peony dress

Gingham is having a moment right now and we approve. The summery print is updating dresses, tops, jumpsuits and skirts everywhere and this zesty frock make from organic cotton should be first on your wish list. 

Shop Peony one-shoulder dress at Selfridges, £350

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Warehouse top

Warehouse top

Knitwear needn’t be packed away during the warmer months, instead opt for a one-sleeve style. This minty fresh Warehouse knit will be so good with wide-leg tan trousers and trainers.

Shop one shoulder long sleeve jumper at Warehouse, £39

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Reformation

Reformation dress

Sustainable brand Reformation is well known for its amazing dresses and this tie waist style proves why. Letting the key knitted dress live on through spring/summer, this one-shoulder iteration is perfect for future soirées.

Shop Ora dress at Reformation, £160

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Other images: courtesy of brands

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