For many reasons, being a female has its good and bad points. While we must admit, playing with wardrobe variety is fun, it can also create a conundrum when deciding what to wear. A skirt, shorts, a dress? And then within these categories we have sub-categories: midi, maxi, pencil, flowing, cotton, body-con… the list goes on (and on!). If we are striking a chord with you, then read on because we are telling you the lengths and styles of dresses to wear for any and all occasions.
Summer is the season of showing off your skin and… your assets. A dress is the go-to outfit staple due to comfort and ease of getting dressed. Whether your plans are for daytime, nighttime, professional or whimsical occasions, we have chosen the best dresses to slip-on during the warm months in London-town.
Dressing for: A picnic in the park
Boater Hat from Liberty / Maxi from River Island / Picnic Basket from Online Amish Furniture / T-Strap Sandals from Wallis Fashion
If there is one must-do during the summer, it is the quintessential sunny afternoon complete with a picnic in the park. Plan this summer staple in Kensington, Hyde, or Regent’s Park, but regardless of where you go to enjoy a homemade outdoor lunch, keep cool in a maxi. You will want to sit with legs crossed, so the long length will allow you to be comfortable without showing too much… skin (ah hem). Place your paper plate in your lap for easy eating. Let the sun kiss your upper body by wearing delicate straps. Accessorise with a boater hat for a little shade and buckle simple flat sandals for quick removal once seated.
Dressing for: A wedding to attend
Pearl Earrings from Macys / Marigold Dress from The Outnet / Chunky Bracelet from Coast Stores / Pearlescent Clutch from Forever New / Gold Heels from Joie
Ever since childhood, girls have stereotypically loved to play dress-up. Ladies simply love to get fancy, so why do we always revert to the little black dress when we are invited to be guests at a wedding? It is a happy celebration, not a funeral! So ,show your jubilance and joy for the happy couple by popping colour into your outfit. Be cautious of length; you want to look sophisticated and lady-like. At the very shortest, the dress should be about halfway between your fingertips and knees.
When wearing a bright colour, be certain to balance it with metallic or neutral accessories. This particular dress does not need elaborate jewellery, due to its statement neckline. Instead, decorate your dress with minimal jewels and a demure, yet stylish, pair of shoes and Add a pretty, but plain, clutch to complete the look.
Dressing for: Afternoon BBQ
Statement Necklace from Marissa Collections / Dropped Hem Dress from John Lewis / Coozie from Funny Shirts / Satchel from Boticca / Wedge Sandals from Zappos Couture
A Sunday Funday is your opportunity to get uber trendy. This summer, the dropped-waist dress is all the rage. Flirty and feminine, the short skirt shows your playful side. Going sleeve-free keeps the outfit airy and comfortable. Try the monochromatic look by layering a turquoise agate necklace. Bright neon blue is a beautiful colour to enjoy, but when wearing such a bold hue, your shoes and bag should be a neutral so that you do not resemble a clown or rainbow. Lastly, don’t forget your coozie with a snarky saying to keep your beer cold in the hot heat.
Side note: These wedge sandals can be worn with a million other items in your closet. The metallic strap adds just the right amount of interest. We love them!
Dressing for: Professional work party
Blazer from Avenue 32 / Midi Dress from Dorothy Perkins / Chunky Necklace from Selected / Satchel from Kate Spade / Pumps from Rupert Sanderson
When out to impress the execs, you need confidence and it’s no secret that confidence comes from looking good and feeling like yourself. One of the trickiest outfits to arrange is one that will be comfortable and professional, yet still be expressive of your personal style. The midi-length dress is perfectly work-appropriate and when it comes in your favourite colour, there’s no doubt you will be feeling smart! Not to mention, the in-between length is totally on trend. Next, layer it with a tailored jacket to feel strong and in-control. Finish it off with a neutral shoe and bag. Only allow yourself one item of jewellery when it comes to professional dress. This chunky chain metal necklace does just the job!
Dressing for: Rest and relaxation at the beach
Swimsuit from Oxygen Boutique / White Dress from Monsoon / Straw Bag from Simply Soles / Thong Sandals from Heels.com
At last: sand, sun and waves! After the aforementioned work event, it is time to relex and de-stress at the beach, but yet again we are confronted with “What to wear?!” Since you will be dipping in and out of the water for most of the day, opt for cotton to soak the water from your suit. This casual cover-up featured is positively perfect. We chose it because it is easily slips on and off. Not to mention, it won’t leave any embarrassing imprints on your belly from restricting elastic or too-tight buttons. Polish the look with some thong sandals that are great for walking on sandy shores and load your straw beach tote with a cute towel and lots of SPF!
As you can see, this summer all you will need to refresh your warm weather wardrobe is a handful of great dresses. Dabble with lengths, colours, shapes and silhouettes. As always, it is important to always keep in mind what is appropriate for each occasion and how you are presenting yourself in each situation. Be practical about the event you’re attending and decide what will be most comfortable according to the plan.
If you are having a wardrobe dilemma of your own, please share it! We are happy to help you decide what to wear wherever you need to go!
Do you have any other tips for wearing dresses during the summer? What is your go-to style when it is hot outside?
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