Let me start with a confession. Dresses and I have a bit of a love-hate relationship. I don’t know what it is, but I really struggle to find a dress that I feel truly suits me. But, once I find one, I treasure it even more than my go-to jeans or trousers. So this year, I’m determined to find an easy, everyday dress that can fit seamlessly into my wardrobe and break up my daily jeans-and-top rotation.
During the spring months and as we move into summer, the definition of an easy, everyday dress really broadens. And at the end of the day, it comes down to whatever your personal style may be. Sunnier days may mean it’s time to whip out the mini dress like Lucy Williams, if you like to show off your pins. But we all know what British weather is like, and that means that a midi-length knitted style is seasonally appropriate, too.
The key is to focus on finding styles that are incredibly versatile. That means choosing neutral colours—or at least tones that integrate easily into your current wardrobe—and minimalist silhouettes. These dresses can be styled in so many different ways. Pair with trainers and jackets for casual day looks, or dress them up with strappy heels and an oversized blazer for a chic evening outfit. However you style them, I’m confident you’ll find them just as useful and stylish as all your other wardrobe staples.
THE BEST EASY HIGH-STREET DRESSES
The fit of this dress is so good.
Mango
100% Linen Shirty Dress
A shirt dress is such an easy yet elevated dress for daily wear, and works just as well at brunch as it does in the office.
& Other Stories
Belted Utility Midi Dress
A denim dress always looks so cool, whether it’s styled with trainers or heeled sandals.
Mango
Textured Short Dress
The texture of this mini makes it look far more expensive than it is.
I love French brand Rouje for easy dresses with a Parisian flair. Add a cardi or blazer to this look for extra warmth.
Nobody’s Child
Forest Green Puff Sleeve Evelyn Midi Dress
Nobody’s Child are masters of slightly bohemian, effortless dresses, and this olive number is a perfect example.
COS
Draped Asymmetric Maxi Dress
The cut of this is so beautiful, it means the dress does all the work for you.
Reformation
Cami Linen Dress
Endlessly versatile—wear with a jacket and boots on colder days, or ballet flats and sunglasses when the skies are blue.
& Other Stories
Flowy Puff Sleeve Midi Dress
The prettiest baby blue hue.
Whistles
Knitted Ribbed Midi Dress
A knitted dress is one of most verstatile pieces in my wardrobe.
ZARA
Zw Collection Short Dress
This Zara mini can go from summer afternoons in the pub to your next mini break abroad.
cos
Contrast-Panel Midi Dress
You can’t go wrong with a black midi.
Arket
Short-Sleeved Maxi Dress
If you’re a colour fan, this dress is ideal—it’s such a joyful blue that can be styled with so many different tones, and the fit is elevated enough to work for so many different occasions.
BEST DESIGNER DRESSES
Loewe
Anagram Embroidered Ribbed Cotton-Jersey Midi Dress
The Loewe tank is still such a status buy, but I think the dress version is even more chic.
DÔEN
Ischia Shirred Cotton-Blend Voile Midi Dress
DÔEN create truly beautiful, effortless dresses with a vintage-inspired bohemian touch. This gorgeous blue style is ideal for spring.
RIXO
Izzy Runway Spot Navy
Polka dot is such an easy print to introduce into your wardrobe.
MARANT ÉTOILE
Ladjo Crepe De Chine Mini Dress
I’m obsessed with the subtly western edge to this mini.
DÔEN
Emmaretta Shirred Gingham Organic Cotton-Voile Midi Dress
I love a gingham midi. Wear this with a linen blazer and strappy sandals or trainers and a sweatshirt.
Joseph
Linen Cotton Knitted Dress
A light knit dress will come in so handy in spring, especially one that’s this beautiful.
Khaite
Wes Pintucked Cotton-Poplin Maxi Dress
I predict you’ll be seeing a lot of your favourite influencers in this dress this season. It also comes in black or red silk organza version.
Faithfull The Brand
+ Net Sustain Palermo Crinkled Linen-Blend Maxi Dress
This crinkled linen maxi can be styled for a wedding, a holiday or just a weekend in the city with friends.
The Row
Folosa Silk Maxi Dress
It’s an investment, but this sophisticated dress is truly timeless.
GANNI
Blue Striped Cotton Smock Long Dress
Ganni always delivers when it comes to easy dresses.
MATTEAU
+ Net Sustain Tiered Organic Cotton and Silk-Blend Maxi Dress
I invest in one dress every summer, and I think this year it’s going to be this gorgeous tiered style.
LA LIGNE
Stretch-Knit and Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress
A beautiful navy dress will always be a wardrobe classic.
Opening image: @monikh