Dress trends: Anthropologie dress | Sandals | Gigi Clozeau necklace | Foundrae necklace

The top 10 dress trends to try this summer ☀️

With the official start of summer just three weeks away, now is the best time to evaluate your dress collection. Talk about an easy (and stylish) way to get dressed for pretty much every occasion! From running errands to sightseeing to a casual lunch to a special event, dresses should be your go-to. They’re easy to style, take no room if you’re heading on vacation, and they’re so so stylish! These days, anytime anyone asks me what to wear to an event, my answer is almost always: a dress. So, here are the top 10 dress trends to try this summer. I’m sure you’ll find a few that are perfect for you.

This season, dresses are THE piece to wear: think pretty white ones, slip dresses (of course), and the of-the-moment “column” dress … long and straight, with cool detailing. You’ll also see bright colors and fun patterns, crochet dresses, and tennis dresses (yes, they’re still trending). There really is the perfect dress for every occasion! Read on to learn more about the top dress trends of the summer, plus a little style board inspo. I hope you find something you love!

Style board inspo

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12

1. The “LWD”

Anthropologie dress, avail in petite and extended sizes | Sandals | Outdoor pillows | Pottery Barn sectional | Dash & Albert rug

As we move from spring to summer wear, we transition from the LBD (little black dress) to the LWD (little white dress). Pretty, versatile and easy, you might consider having two or three in your rotation. For a casual daytime look, try a breezy, puff-sleeve style like this. For the evening, try a longer, more fitted LWD, like the one I’m wearing in the photo above.

2. Pretty Floral dresses

Anthropologie dress | Sandals | Prada sunglasses

Many Spring 2023 shows featured 60’s-inspired floral dresses in both bold graphics and bright colors, like pink, ocean blue and lime green. While I love these styles, I tend to gravitate toward a more subdued take, like the one-shoulder dress above. Perfect for going to a special event, or in your own back yard. Just pair it with a clear strap sandal (see above photo), or with any neutral shoe. You’ll definitely look stylish, and maybe even a little sexy! 😉

3. Daytime casual dresses

Mille dress | YSL sandals | YSL handbag

Owning several everyday, casual dresses is an easy way to get out the door quickly in the summer. They’re perfect with flat sandals or sneakers — just add a crossbody bag and you’ll be ready to go! These simple dresses are my go-to on warm weather days, just like the one above that I wore last week when Portland was in the 90’s.

4. Special event dresses

Zimmermann dress, similar and other colors here | Dior bag | Sandals | J.Crew bracelets here and here

Many of us have special events this summer, and having a nice dress or two to choose from really comes in handy! I absolutely LOVE Zimmermann dresses and have a couple I plan to wear to weddings. The wrap style above is a classic, and they always carry it in several beautiful colors. For reference, I’m wearing a size 0 — I had it hemmed, and the sleeves were shortened. (In other Zimmermann dresses I wear a size 1, but the one above runs a bit roomy.) Lately, I’ve noticed a few versions of this style of dress that are more affordable. For example, look at this one and these too!

5. Cool crochet dresses

ALC dress | Valentino handbag | Sandals

Crochet dresses are all the rage right now with their cool textures and colors. I love the ALC one above, which also comes in this color combo and this skirt. It seems that everyone is making a version of this dress. For example, look at this one from J.Crew, this one I spotted at Anthropologie, this cute Z Supply one from Evereve, and this La DoubleJ one for your ‘60s fix.

6. Slip dresses

L’Agence slip dress | Sandals | Chloe tote | Sweater over shoulders

A slip dress is now a classic style to own, and there are many different versions to try. If you’re looking for a black one that you can wear virtually anywhere, this Vince one is hands-down my personal favorite! Since it’s cut on the bias, it’s really flattering and everyone loves it. J.Crew makes some of the best slip dresses — look at this style. Also, L’Agence is another favorite and the one I’m wearing above is currently on sale.

7. Column dresses

Norma Kamali dress | Gold sandals, similar | Open Edit blazer | Fendi bag

Column dresses are becoming more and more popular, with their clean lines and sleek look. If you choose this style, consider making it strapless — it’s both flattering and lengthening (especially with a blazer thrown over your shoulders). The one I’m wearing above is a go-to for lunch with friends and dinners on the patio. I’ve also taken it on several vacations, and have worn it during the day as well as at night. Just pair with a cute clutch and your favorite sandals. Easy and versatile! For more inspo, check out this video.

8. Dress in Red

Farm Rio dress | Larroude sandals | Dior bag

In simple terms: red is HOT right now. Style experts are predicting it’ll be with us all the way through the fall and into winter … in other words, for the rest of the year! In fashion, red is the color of passion, energy and confidence. So, why not try a dress in red? Pair with neutral (camel, écru, white) accessories, and go make a statement ❤️

Pro shopping tip: try to pick a shade of red that goes with your skin tone. On fairer skin tones, use cool shades of red (cherry, ruby, raspberry); on darker skin tones, go with deeper shades of red (these have a hint of coral, orange or brown)

9. Resort-ready dresses

Elan coverup dress | Dior tote | Schutz sandals

This is probably my favorite category. Doesn’t it feel good to wear a comfy, flowy dress while on vacation? The cute one above by Elan above got me many compliments 😉, and I also love this one from Farm Rio. The print is so fun!

10. One of the most fun dress trends: Tenniscore

Spanx tennis dress | Naghedi tote | Adidas Samba sneakers

I’m still in love with tennis dresses … and not just because I play tennis! They’re fun to wear when it’s warmer out — you can run errands, workout or walk with a friend looking comfy and stylish at the same time 🤍 I own and love this Varley one, this one from Alo, and this best-seller from Lululemon.

Thank you for reading xx