Find the perfect summer dress isn't always an easy task, but there's one style we come back to year after year: the denim dress. Considered a true wardrobe staple, it's easy to see why women of all ages keep coming back to the versatile piece.
What makes a denim dress such a brilliant buy is its ability to work across all ages and all styles. While plenty of high street dresses feel geared towards a younger crowd, denim dresses are refreshingly timeless. Versatile, flattering and age-inclusive is the order of the day here, because denim dresses are modest, modern, easy to wear and most importantly, comfortable.
From mini denim dresses, to midi and maxi, the denim dress spans so many styles. Think fun and flirty to polished and tailored, and every style in between.
Celebrities wearing denim dresses - the styling inspiration you might like
© Getty Images, ShutterstockHow I chose the best denim dresses for women
- Flattering: I want this to be a trendy edit but I also want to make sure the denim dresses will be flattering, too. From A-line cuts, belted waists, and button-front designs, these are all the styles that flatter a variety of body shapes.
- Cost: I don't want to include lots of expensive dresses but I also want to promote sustainable brands. I will no doubt stick to the high street and some favourite brands that I trust.
- Fabric: In the summer we're after more lightweight, soft-touch fabrics with a bit of stretch, making them ideal for all-day wear.
© Getty- Midi length editor's pick: M&S Denim Pintuck Midi Column Dress, £45 / $68.99
- Mini length editor's pick: Next Utility Denim Mini Dress, £38 / $68
- Work-ready editor's pick: Boden Gold Button Sleeveless Denim Dress, £74.50 / $174.30
- Sleeveless editor's pick: Nobody's Child Sleeveless Starlight Midi Dress, £89 / $168
- Sexy editor's pick: Reformation Janu Midi Dress, £248 / $248
How to style the denim dress if you're an older woman
I am in my forties, so I recognise the way I wear a denim dress now is very different to how I'd have worn one in my twenties. Older women can elevate a denim dress with classic accessories - think leather belts, elegant scarves, or statement jewellery. Neutral-toned shoes and handbags in tan, black, or white create a timeless look.
© Leanne BayleyBest denim dresses for women
1/11
Boden Gold Button Denim Midi Dress
© Boden- 100% cotton
- Machine washable
- Sleeveless
- Belted detail
Editor's Note:
This dress is described on the Boden website as a "grown-up denim dress". This dress is guaranteed to make you feel good and it'll always be there for you - it's so timeless. The gold buttons are an elevated addition while the sleeveless style and belted waist make it office-appropriate.
2/11
M&S Denim Pintuck Midi Column Dress
© M&S- 100% Cotton
- Back zip fastening
- Pintuck waist
- Column style
Editor's Note:
M&S is dropping so many lovely pieces right now, and this denim dress is making me swoon. The pintuck detail gives it a unique look and it could be worn for a special occasion, casual BBQ or for a chic garden party.
3/11
Nobody's Child Starlight Denim Dress
© Nobody's Child- 100% Cotton
- Midi length
- V-neck
- Available in a dark denim
Editor's Note:
If you're looking for a casual denim dress to create glam holiday looks, this is the one. It has a low v-neck neckline and will look fabulous with a pair of gladiator sandals or a girls holiday.
4/11
Next Denim Mini Dress
© Next- 100% Cotton
- Mini length
- Short sleeve
Editor's Note:
Next's denim dress is ideal for heatwave or a vacation. It features a mini cut and is easy to wear in design. I'd love to wear this for a day out in the pub garden sipping rose wine with my friends. Pair with statement earrings for a chic holiday ensemble.
5/11
Reformation 'Janu' Denim Dress
© Reformation- 100% Organically Grown Cotton
- Wash cold
- Fitted with A-line skirt
Editor's Note:
Reformation 'Janu' denim dress is so stylish and would look incredible for a special occasion such as a summer soiree. I'd recommend opting for gold sandals and gold Celine sunglasses to complete the look.
6/11
Scamp & Dude Authentic Indigo Zip Detail Tiered Midi Denim Dress
© Scamp & Dude- Responsibly sourced cotton
- Elasticated waist
- Increased bust and waist measurement for a better fit
- Wash inside out at 30 degrees
Editor's Note:
Scamp & Dude is becoming a strong favourite here at HELLO HQ and this denim dress wins brownie points for the flattering fit. Crafted from responsibly sourced cotton, this authentic indigo zip detail tiered midi dress is all about off-duty charm.The sweet short puff sleeve sleeves make it ideal for warmer days and the elasticated waist has a flattering fit and flare style.
7/11
Karen Millen Denim Tailored Notch Belted Dress
© Karen Millen- 100% Cotton
- Full skirt
- Pockets
Editor's Note:
Who doesn't love an easy to throw-on yet smart dress? This one from Karen Millen looks polished and comfortable - the perfect balance of the two. Wear for work or play, you won't regret buying this one.
8/11
River Island Denim Collared Shirt Dress
© River Island- 100% Cotton
- Embroidered collar
- Mini length
Editor's Note:
This denim mini dress from is selling fast, so be warned. I think this dress will be super flattering whether you're at home or abroad. I would wear this with a pair of chunky fisherman sandals and a raffia clutch bag.
9/11
Phase Eight 'Carly' Denim Dress
© Phase Eight- Cotton 75% Polyester 23% Elastane 2%
- Mini length
- Puff sleeves
- Gold buttons
Editor's Note:
With its feminine ruffles and classic shape, this will be a stylish staple for summer wardrobes. Made from 75% cotton, it's such a cute mini that you'll pull it out again and again.
10/11
New Look Denim Shirred Dress
© New Look- 100% Cotton
- Sleeveless
- Machine washable
Editor's Note:
This is a classic summer style from New Look, with flattering shirred bust and strappy detail - how cure are the bows?
11/11
Mint Velvet Denim Scalloped Mini Dress
© Mint Velvet- 69% cotton, 31% lyocell.
- A-line shape
- Scalloped detailing
Editor's Note:
This is such a beautiful version of a classic A-line denim dress. The scalloped detailing and gold buttons add a point of difference, and it is available in sizes 6 - 18.
