Living in the UK, where complaining about the lack of sun is part of our identity, I’m always nervous to admit that there’s a lot I enjoy about the cooler climate. At the top of the list is the fact that I find it easier to dress with layers—give me a chunky jumper and a wool coat, and I’m happy out.
While I am also desperately ready for brighter spring days, I find warm-weather clothing trickier to navigate. As soon as it’s too balmy for jumpers, I feel sartorially lost. So, it’s important that I have a few effortless items to chuck on and feel comfortable in. For the past few years, dresses have been a key in fulfilling this role while keeping me looking chic.
I naturally gravitate towards simple dresses; free from details which might date them down the line. It’s a category I allow myself to invest in, so I want any dress I add to my collection to transcend trends and have long-term potential.
I’ve been weighing up my options for spring/summer 2024, and after much to-ing and fro-ing, the following 24 dresses have made it onto my shortlist. There are budget-friendly styles, great for plugging last-minute gaps, and on the other end of the spectrum, I’ve selected a few luxury designs I know will feel special with every wear.
Take a look at my pick of the best simple dresses below, starting at just £28.
The Best Simple High-Street Dresses:
Recycled Polyester
Riviera Midi Dress in Lavender Violet
Omnes’ slip dresses are unmatched—especially at that price point.
Black Crochet Trim Seattle Midi Skater Dress
This versatile dress is screaming to be brought on your next holiday, whether you’re headed on a city break or a beach getaway.
ARKET
Oversized Shirt Dress
Dress up with heels and gold-toned jewellery or keep it casual with sandals or sneakers.
Hush
Riley Ribbed Maxi Dress
Hush’s new-ins are so good right now. These ribbed maxi can be worn at the weekend or on holiday with a simple swap of accessories.
The Best Mid-Price Dresses
GANNI
White Cotton Poplin Tie String Mini Dress
I’ve seen the top version of this all over Instagram, but the dress has my heart.
The Best High-End Dresses
Tove
Solene Cotton Poplin Midi Dress
The juxtaposition between the full skirt and the spaghetti straps is perfection.
THE ROW
Venusia Jersey Maxi Dress
Carry this one through the seasons with a few clever layering tricks.
LOEWE
Anagram Embroidered Ribbed Metallic Cotton-Jersey Midi Dress
With a hint of metallic thread running through it, this shimmery number is made for day-to-night dressing.
DÔEN
Emmaretta Shirred Gingham Organic Cotton-Voile Midi Dress
It wouldn’t be spring/summer without adding a Dôen dress to your roster.
MARA HOFFMAN
+ Net Sustain Alora Belted Organic Cotton Midi Dress
Wear with trainers, sandals or heels.