We think our imagination might be playing tricks on us, but what’s that big yellow thing we can see outside. Could it be perhaps… the sun?! After something of a disappointing start to the year, weather-wise, it looks like it's time to get excited for some good weather and better yet, a good old summer holiday.
In our dreams we're on our way to Mykonos. In reality, our destination might be Morrisons, but that doesn't mean you still can't get dressed up for the occasion and make the most of some fabulous weather, be it at home or abroad.
"2025 is a year where we have had to be ready for anything so the perfect summer dress needs to be truly versatile and work from day to night and beach to bar and far beyond," explains Hansine Johnston, the founder of luxury destination wear brand Hansine.
When Kate Moss rang in her 50th birthday in Mustique alongside Sadie Frost and Rosemary Ferguson - all three wearing Hansine slip dresses - it cemented the eponymous designer's brand as the ultimate summer style statement. "For me it is all about how a dress makes you feel and how you can move in it, so pick a colour that makes you really happy or a shape that truly flatters you, so you are guaranteed to feel amazing, no matter what," she tells H! Fashion.
Eager to inject a little dose of sunshine into your summer wardrobe? Fret not, you're in the right place. Whether you're counting down the days to an island hopping trip with friends, or staying closer to home and visiting family. One thing unites all holidays: the need for a bumper selection of holiday dresses to choose from, and we have put our heart and soul into compiling the below list for you.
© Edward BerthelotThe Best Holiday Wardrobe Dresses:
Rhodes Dress in Green Watercolour Print Rhodes Dress
Hansine
If you're after that barely-there, balmy-evening kind of glamour, Hansine has nailed it with this slinky green slip. With its green watercolour print and whisper-light silk, it's made for barefoot days and golden hour posing. Just add sun-kissed skin, sandals and a spritz of something citrusy.
Alberta Red Linen Blend Dress
Kitri
We don't know what's over in the water down at Kitri HQ but the cult brand just can't stop churning out uber cute dresses that we can't wait to wear this summer. This red number is an absolute show stopper. Team with cowboy boots.
Blue Denim Sleeveless Seamed Mini Dress
River Island
River Island have fast become our go-to for covetable pieces that belie their price tag. This structured denim mini dress would look superb with mesh ballet flats and a suede bag slung over your shoulder.
Spring Pink Crochet Dress
Oceanus
Oceanus make dresses and bikinis that will make you want to stampede a Superyacht at once. We love the soft pink case of this crochet dress, something a little different from the cream offerings we're inundated with at this time of year. Pair with big gold jewellery.
Full Of Sunshine Cotton-Linen Mini
Free People
Comfort comes first when it comes to summer dressing. How could one possibly frolic if not? This fresh as a daisy mini comes in 15 shades, and we'd like them all please.
Maria Dress
Susmie's
Barcelona based brand Susmie's have quickly worked their way into our hearts thanks to their easy-breezy prints and the relaxed Spanish energy their pieces ooze. Our pick of the bunch is this halter neck maxi dress in this season's cool-girl approved print: the polka dot
Emilia Sage Stretch Cotton Halter Neck Midi Dress
House of CB
Sometimes only an impeccably fitting, super feminine dress will do, and luckily House of CB stocks them by the bucket load. Our pick of the bunch is this midi dress that's perfectly form fitting up top and a whimsical dream down below.
Pink Cherry Bunches Ruffles Maxi Dress
Cath Kidston
Let's face it, no one makes prints quite like Cath Kidston, and the beloved brand's artists have delivered a sunny selection of summer pieces that will kickstart your holiday season with gusto. We adore this pink cherry print midi dress.
Beatriz Dress
Rat & Boa
When we close our eyes, we're dancing on a beach somewhere in a Rat & Boa dress, while sipping on a cocktail, and this flirty mini is perfect for shimmying across the sand.
Buttercup Stripe Athens Dress
Pink City Prints
We challenge anyone to find a brand that will immediately bring cheer into anyone's hearts more successfully than Pink City Prints. Their block printed offerings come in the zingiest hues and the sunniest patterns.
Arianna Crochet Midi Dress
Forever New
Proving that summer dressing isn't exclusively a realm of prints and patterns. Minimalists take notes of how flawless and clean crochet can look thanks to a streamlined silhouette and slick accessories.
Forget Me Not Asymmetric Dress
Sister Jane
Sister Jane are known for their dramatic, sculptural creations but those who lean towards a more pared-back approach to summer dressing should sit up and pay attention to this streamlined black slip dress, oozing sophistication.
Winnie, 100% Linen Dress Poldark
Dear Prudence
This effortlessly wearable linen dress offers summer comfort but still packs a sartorial punch. We're big fans of this slow fashion brand that's committed to making as little environmental impact as possible (and works with a small family run factory).
Cap Sleeve Corset Mini Dress in Blue and Pink Stripe
Monki
Who doesn't love a crisp blue and white stripe come summertime? Add in a Bridgerton-esque corset waist and a flirty frilled hem and we are sold.
Jessa Dress
Rails
Consider this the ultimate staple - a little black dress, just elevated by white piped trim and sweet cut out. Monochrome dressing never looked so cool.
How we chose:
Aesthetic: Summer dresses have the freedom to be a little more playful than their Wintery alternatives. Summer dressing is a chance to really show off your personal style and I've tried to pick a range of pieces that will prove sartorially inspiring yet comfy too.
Price: I've selected items from a wide range of price points to try and suit most budgets, without compromising on quality.
Why you should trust me?
Working in fashion is simultaneously the best and worst thing that’s ever happened to me because spending all day surrounded by gorgeous pieces and trends lit a fire under my (already substantial) shopping habit. I love to shop. I live to shop, and summer ensembles are my jam. In a previous life, I worked in Personal Shopping, and I’m the person to take out with you if you want to be wholeheartedly talked into a purchase.
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