Getty/ Jeremy Moeller
While we’ve developed a somewhat unhealthy attachment to our oversized blazers and favourite straight-leg jeans, we couldn’t be happier to be bidding them adieu for our summertime staple: the sun dress.
Sure, we can don a dress year-round, but it’s never quite the same as the flowy, strappy and lightweight numbers we wear so freely in the spring and summer months.
From minis to maxis and everything in between, the perfect summer dress is a wardrobe chameleon, with the ability to be dressed up or down according to the occasion (and even be worn with that beloved blazer on cooler nights).
For those following the style set, dopamine dressing (hello, Barbie-core pinks and wasabi greens) and showing a little skin with cut-outs, netting and crochet continue to dominate.
If minimalism is more your pace, capsule wardrobe devotees will delight in the array of pared-back pieces that can take you from the office to the bar with ease.
Scroll on for our pick of the best spring/summer dresses of 2024.
Best Summer Dresses To Shop In 2024
01
Jason Wu Cutout Ruched Poplin Mini Dress
from $357 (was $595) at Net-A-Porter
While we are impartial to a LBD, the LWD (Little White Dress) is the unsung hero of summer dresses. Light, airy and perfect for hot days this Jason Wu mini is practically calling for you to style her this season with your favourite strappy sandals and bold statement jewellery.
02
Alemais Dreamer Halter Tie Dress
from $645 at The Iconic
Summer is the season for colour and with this striking tiered maxi from local label Alemais. Perfect for those embracing a boho-chic vibe, Alemais effortlessly weaves flowing fabrics in a kaleidoscope of hues. The paisley print paired with the halter neck and ribbon detailing makes for a stunning statement dress.
03
Antonia Beaded Mini Dress
from $390 at SIR The Label
Summer provides the perfect opportunity to draw inspiration from the natural world, embracing tactile materials and fabrics. SIR The Label’s Antonia mini dress is made from natural linen in a sandy hue with unique stacked beads to add texture and a point of difference to the elevated summer dress.
04
Maye Midi Dress El Limon Floral Blue
from $309 at Faithfull The Brand
An everyday floral mini is a timeless addition to any summer wardrobe, and we’re particularly smitten with this 90s-inspired slip from Faithfull The Brand. It adds some colour to our otherwise monochromatic capsule ensembles and is a lightweight and relaxed silhouette is perfect for navigating hot and humid days with ease.
05
Hansen & Gretal Cherish Dress
from $389.95 at The Iconic
A strapless maxi makes for an elegant everyday summer dress without requiring too much thought or effort. This bold bright green with floral applique is the ultimate seasonal hue. The best thing about this silhouette is you can take it from beach to bar with just the simple switch up of accessories and lashings of jewellery.
06
Hayden Asymmetric Mini Dress
from $260 at Bec + Bridge
Australians know summer dressing and Bec + Bridge’s array of seasonal dresses make it hard to pick just one. However, this ocean blue asymmetric mini makes for the quintessential party dress this summer. Pair with strappy kitten heels and a shoulder bag for heat-proof night out look.
07
Tie Back Sundress
from $499 at Oroton
Made from 100% cotton this poppy red maxi dress makes for the ultimate standout summer staple. The fitted bodice flatters your silhouette while the bow detailing adds a fun, whimsical touch. Style it with sandals while running errands and simply slip on some statement heels for a head-turning date night outfit.
08
Oseree Lumiere Twist Metallic Maxi Dress
from Net-A-Porter
Summer calls for salty skin and hair, sunburnt shoulders (no matter how much sunscreen you apply) and sheer fabrics. Bare it all in this knit and tulle maxi dress that offers a sultry solution to hot weather dressing.
09
Palms Cotton Dress
from $400 at Jac + Jack
A breezy cotton shirt dress is perhaps the most comfortable on summer dresses. Whether you’re lounging around the house, heading out to brunch or running errands, throw on this elegant midi dress for a refined uniform for the day.
10
Art of Bloom Maxi Dress Cream
$159 at VRGGRL
Longing for summertime dinner parties and memorable moments, this staple maxi dress is ideal for any occasion. Featuring a captivating open back and bias cut for an effortlessly flattering fit.
Looking to save money on summer dresses? Check out our coupon codes for Oroton, Net-A-Porter and more.
Related article:
- The 10 Wardrobe Essentials You Need To Create The Ultimate Summer Workdrobe
- 7 Designer Sandals You’ll Be Wearing All Summer Long
- ‘I Tried Swimwear For Larger Busts, And I’m Surprised How Stylish It Is’
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