I'm Obsessed with Dresses — Here are 36 of the Best Options for Summer

Call me biased, but I firmly believe throughout the spring/summer season, there is simply no better piece of fuss-free clothing than a dress. When wearing a beautiful summer dress, you don’t need to worry about coordinating complicated separates or thinking of an outfit formula — Just throw it on, add a pair of shoes and a handbag and you’re done!

Plus, the beauty of this classic wardrobe staple is that while it may be simple in it's execution, it's not restrictive when it comes to styles. Trust me, as someone whose wardrobe is made up of 60% dresses, there really is a dress to suit literally every taste. For example, minimalists will love simple linen or silk maxi iterations, while maximalists can experiment with bold colours and floral prints.

And, this year's summer dress trends back this up too. Lovers of colour will be spoilt for choice as the SS25's catwalks were awash with dresses in bold, statement shades and soft pastels alike. As a natural continuation of last year's feel-good mood, we're seeing plenty of colour-blocking, whether it's our continuing love for butter yellow, primary red's enduring appeal or soft lilac and pink tones.

By contrast, we're also seeing a penchant for timeless neutrals, which is perfect if you're into the 'quiet luxury' aesthetic or are after a more understated look. Think jade greens, creams and the palest of beiges as well as classic black and white colour ways.

Length-wise, while midi dresses are always classic, hemlines are getting a little longer in a nostalgic nod to the noughties, which means it's the perfect time to invest in a straight-length maxi dress. Mini's will also prove a smart choice for summer holidays paired with minimalist sandals or chunky loafers and socks if you'e sticking closer to home.

In terms of prints, floral dresses will never go out of style, yet this season we're seeing more abstract patterns gain prominence, too. The polka dot dress is also having a moment offering a more graphic take on summer prints.

If all this choice is leaving you feeling a little overwhelmed, don't worry, I'm here to help and I’ve cherry-picked an edit of the best spring and summer dresses. From my favourite designer styles to the best dresses on the high street, these are the best summer dresses to shop right now — all with fashion editor approval.

The best summer dresses, by length

1. The best maxi dresses

If you only invest in one new summer dress this season, make it a maxi style. Elegant, effortless and so easy to wear, any of these styles will ensure you look incredibly chic all summer long.

2. The best midi dresses

Whether you're looking for a dress for your next big occasion, an easy style to wear on the beach or simply something you can throw on and go everyday, there's a midi dress for that. Just add sandals to any of these styles for one of the easiest summer outfits you'll ever wear.

3. The best mini dresses

Summer is certainly a season when hemlines trend to rise, so adding a mini dress to your rotation is always a good idea. & Other Stories embellished swing style mini is a personal favourite of mine this season or try an A-line shape for something more classic.

The best summer dresses, by colour

4. The best white dresses

Nothing says summer quite like a crisp white dress and a sun-kissed tan (whether faux or otherwise). For those who like a slightly more pared-back aesthetic, minimalist white summer dresses are the way to go, or, for something more statement, look for a style with lace detailing or cut outs for a little edge.

5. The best black dresses

On the other end of the colour spectrum, a classic black dress is a seriously chic choice year-round. If you didn't think you could wear black during the summer, allow these selects to prove you wrong — just opt for light fabrics, like linen and cotton, to give the darker tone a summer-approved spin.

6. The best bright dresses

Investing in a brightly coloured dress is the perfect way to add a little fun to your summer wardrobe. Whether you opt for a statement print or a simple block of punchy colour, there are so many options to choose from that are sure to induce serious dopamine with every wear.

The best summer dresses, by style

7. The best drop waist dresses

The drop waist dress trend first took hold last summer and it's a style that's still proving popular for SS25. While last year, contrasting shades were the way to go, this year there's much more flexibility. Opt for block colours, duo-tone dresses or even prints for a chic, stylish look.

8. The best strapless dresses

A Y2K staple, the strapless or bandeau dress has had a resurgence in recent months and now it's the style to be seen in this summer. For a sleek look, tap into the maxi trend and opt for a column style that drapes rather than hugs the body.

9. The best cut-out dresses

Cut out dresses may seem intimidating but I promise you they don't have to be. The key is to think about the areas you want to highlight — whether at the side, the back or around the décolletage — and opt for your cut outs accordingly. Also, don't feel you have to go big to make maximum impact. Subtle cut outs can be just as alluring while also feeling a little more wearable for everyday.