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3 min read
Mini, midi and maxi options all come in the blank canvas colour.
Dresses are one of the easiest throw-on-and-go outfits to wear in summer. Lightweight, often loose and crafted to create airflow, they may be our favourite warm-weather wardrobe item, and there’s a whole host of options to choose from. Slouchy T-shirt dresses lean into the laidback look, plissé dresses add a luxe feel and long-sleeved dresses can make us feel a little more comfortable. But no matter the length, fit or fabric, there’s always one colour that calls our name this season: bright white.
Not only does white keep you cool as the weather warms up – not absorbing the heat as much as many other shades – but it also accentuates any golden glow, real or faux, and creates the perfect blank canvas for coloured shoes and accessories.
The shade can slot into anyone’s wardrobe, no matter your style, and be worn for almost every occasion (weddings and kids’ birthday parties notwithstanding). Which leads us to the colour’s one downfall: wear it with caution and try to keep it clean. It may not be the best outfit to eat spaghetti in or wear to the park, so pick your location wisely. Nude underwear may be a wise accompaniment, too.
Keep scrolling to see nine of our favourite white dress finds, from straight-cut shirt dresses to lace-trimmed minis.
Aligne Gabriella short-sleeve broderie dress
Offering a stylish twist on the classic shirt dress, this short-sleeved Aligne option will become an old trusty staple for every event. Wear it loose with a simple sandal for that laidback look.
Cos voluminous sleeveless midi dress
Drop hem dresses are having quite the moment this season, and this Cos find is incredibly chic. Plus, it’s made from cotton so it will be comfy and cool.
Nobody's Child white piper broderie anglaise mini dress
Pockets make dresses even more enticing as you can hold a phone, keys, sunglasses and a lip balm without the need to lug a bag around. And as a result, this shift-style mini is at the top of our wishlist. The broderie pattern further solidifies its sunny weather appeal.
Shop Nobody’s Child white piper broderie anglaise mini dress, £65
Aspiga Willow embroidered dress
Floaty dresses are a favourite once the warmer weather rolls around and this Aspiga option is built for the beach (or balcony). What you may not immediately notice is that there’s a subtle sweet floral print across the entire design.
H&M smocked-waist cotton dress
While this H&M find may look simplistic at first, closer inspection shows its stylish shirred detailing. We’d pair ours with a pair of vibrant pumps to make it really pop.
Karen Millen plus-size cotton embroidery woven shirt midi dress
Working out what to wear to the office when the sun is shining is no easy task but this Karen Millen dress seems perfect. With a shirt-like fit, collared neck and belted waist, it’s formal enough in fit to see you through almost every dress code.
Shop Karen Millen plus size crafted cotton embroidery woven shirt midi dress, £199
Ninety Percent Koulika white dress
If you’re looking for more of a planet-friendly pick, take a look at Ninety Percent. Not only do 90% of the brand’s profits go towards charitable causes and the people who make the collections but each piece is crafted from sustainable materials, including the tencel in this dress.
Maeve short-sleeve linen corset A-line midi dress
Adding a vintage-like feel with a corset-style waist, puff sleeves and bow-tie front, this Maeve option is incredibly detailed in its design. Lean into the look and style with a chic ballet flat or cowboy boot for added edge.
Shop Maeve short-sleeve linen corset A-line midi dress, £148
Whistles poplin cotton mix midi dress
If you’re searching for an elegant yet simplistic frock, we’ve found it with this Whistles option. Plus, it’s crafted from cotton poplin, meaning it will help keep you cool throughout the warmer weather.
Images: courtesy of brands
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