A white dress is the epitome of summer style; be it linen, seersucker, or cotton, there's an abundance of timeless styles available to suit everyone right now. What's more, the versatility of a white dress should never be underestimated, from beach to bar, shopping to dinner out, a simple white dress can take you effortlessly from day to night with just a quick change of shoes and accessories.
There's something about a warm summer day in this country, whereby as soon as the sun comes out, it makes you want to reach for that crisp white sundress. Perfect
to throw on with chunky sandals [1], a straw bag, or even this summer's crochet bucket hat for a walk in the park, a white dress is undoubtedly a timeless summer staple. Invest in a good one, and you'll wear it for years to come.
Wearing white does, however, come with a warning; some lightweight fabrics are known to be on the sheer side, especially on a bright sunny day, so protect your
modesty in unlined styles by wearing a slip underneath for extra coverage or some no-VPL underwear [2]. Neutral colours to match your skin tone is the best option under white as it blends rather than offers a stark contrast to the skin. Seamless styles are more favourable under thin fabrics such as silk and satin for a smooth, streamline silhouette.
Whether you're looking for a midi, maxi, mini, or anything in between we've found the best 14 white dresses to buy now and wear forever. Just be careful of spilling drinks in pub gardens!
Best Affordable White Summer Dress
H&M Puff Sleeve Crepe Dress [3] (£15)
At just under £15, this dress is an absolute steal, leaving more money for your holiday fund. The sweetheart neckline and puff sleeves draw the eye up to the bust area, while this dress has shaped cups and an elasticated smock section on the back for a flattering fit. We love the delicate floral print that would look great accessorised with a fabric bag in the same tone. A kitten heel or flat would tie in perfectly and be sure to keep jewellery to a minimum to let
the the neckline and puff sleeves take centre stage.
Best Plus-Size White Summer Dress
ASOS Design Curve Broderie Dress [4] (£38)
This lightweight summer dress is made from 100 percent cotton making it the ideal breathable fabric for keeping you cool this summer. The v-neck flatters fuller boobs whilst the short, slightly bat-wing sleeves sit just below your upper arm. The button-up detail will elongate your frame creating the illusion of more height but also a platform flip-flop or sandal are a good option if you're after some extra inches. This is the perfect dress to pack in your holiday wardrobe, working as a throw-on over swimwear in the day or equally as easily, dressed up with gold accessories for the evening.
Best White Denim Dress
Next White Double-Breasted Denim Blazer Dress [5] (£40)
Made from a super soft, lightweight denim, this dress with its blazer silhouette casts just the right balance between smart and casual. Ideal for work or a shopping trip with friends, this dress will see you through an array of summer days. The chic gold hard-wear adds a more luxe feel and makes it look on the premium side. Dress up with a pair of graphic block heels or dress down with minimal sandals. It's a great one for petite frames.
Best White Shirt Dress
Uniqlo Shirt Dress [6] (£40)
A shirt dress is probably the most versatile item you could own. This classic style from Uniqlo has cropped sleeves and a collarless design for an effortlessly easy wear. Team with trainers or a pair of sandals for the day and a stylish crossbody bag. For colder days, why not layer over a Breton striped tee or a simple tank for a chic layered look. The tie belt is ideal for creating a waist. Alternatively those who like a more over-sized style, you can remove the belt entirely and go for a loose-fitting silhouette.
Best White Summer Dress for Work
Zara Pleated Surplice Dress [7] (£56)
As soon as the sun comes out, it's easy to think of holiday dressing, but don't allow your workwear to get neglected; give your office wardrobe a refresh this summer with a sharp white dress. The collar and pleats on this Zara number create a look that's smart enough for the office whilst the soft linen and sculptured belt detail will keep you looking fashion forward. The tie belt will cinch your waist to create an hourglass silhouette. Look for a pair of sculptured minimalist heels for an up-to-date SS23 vibe.
Best Petite White Summer Dress
Nobody's Child Petite Shirred Maisi Dress [8] (£79)
Nothing says summer like a shirred, layered dress. The perfect all-rounder, this dress will take you from BBQs to garden parties, picnics to days out – and all that's needed are a few simple accessories. It's flattering cut is ideal for petites as the fit has been accounted for smaller figures but it is still size-inclusive starting from a size
4 to a size 18. The shirred bodice is great for those with a smaller bust as the fabric adds texture to the chest. The tiered style suits curvy and pear-shaped figures as the A-line cut will skim over thighs effortlessly. This dress is made from 100 percent organic cotton so will keep you feeling, and looking, cool this summer.
Best White Summer Minidress
Free People Marina Mini Dress [9] (From £78)
It's hard to know which angle this dress looks best from as it's back view is just as beautiful as the front. The babydoll style is great for those who like to show off their legs and the puff sleeves add some statement interest. The pleat front detailing can help if you're self-conscious around your middle whilst the square neckline flatters smaller busts. The back features two ties, one across the back to achieve a snug fit, and one along the bottom which allows you to customise the low scoop of the dress just how you like it.
Best White Linen Summer Dress
Mango Belted Linen Dress [10] (£80)
This simple but elegant dress is ultra-chic; ideal for work, the airport outfit [11], holidays, or any kind of summer party, you're sure to get your cost per wear this season with ease. Linen is similar to cotton in that it's a great breathable textile to wear in the summer; it'll keep you cool on very hot days as the fabric dries super quickly, absorbing any moisture. This dress is lined with a 100 percent cotton lining so you can be reassured it won't be see-through in the light. The simplicity of the design makes it look a lot more premium than its price-tag.
Best White Summer Midi Dress
& Other Stories Flared Babydoll Midi Dress [12] (£85)
This dress ticks all the boxes for boyish figures, with its eye-catching cinched waist, it's going to give you more curves than Beyoncé. The fully adjustable straps have elasticated arm holes that are ideal for getting that just-right fit and best suited for those who want to go bra-less. The flared baby-doll cut suits all figures, too. Balance out the delicate straps with a pair of chunky tan or black sandals; some simple gold jewellery will complete that effortless summer feel.
Best White Long-Sleeve Summer Dress
Cos Off The Shoulder Puff Sleeve Dress [13]
For a more covered-up look, this long sleeve number from Cos ticks all the style boxes. The wide cut sleeves give it a SS23 look and they can also be worn off the shoulders in a bardot style for an alternative way to wear. A shirred bust is always great for adding texture whilst offering a comfortable fit. This square neckline is super flattering on any bust size, just add a necklace for interest and the perfect shoulder bag. We love this style with a low heel to elevate your look for that versatile wear-anywhere look.
Best White Slip Dress
All Saints Hadley Cowl Neck Slip Dress [14] (£119)
Minimalists, listen up! This slip dress could be your new summer staple; versatile enough to wear in the day over a white tee with black leather flip-flops and easy to dress up for a night out with a pair of barely-there heels and an evening bag. It's worth noting, we recommend spending a bit more on a slip dress. Not only are they timeless, so in theory you should only ever need to buy one, but also those made well will last and look better quality. This one has a slight cowl neck with adjustable straps so the fabric drapes at the front in a flattering way - we're also here
for the side split to allow for a bit of extra movement.
Best White Summer Holiday Dress
Me + Em Cheesecloth Frill Swing Dress [15] (£135)
Throw on over your bikini for the beach, wear with trainers for site-seeing, team with gold sandals for cocktails, add a blazer for dinner; this dress has endless possibilities for your holiday and is an all-round essential to pack in your case. The soft cheesecloth fabric will not only be super comfortable to wear, it's also naturally textured so no-need to worry about it getting creased in your suitcase. A win-win in our eyes! If you're wearing it as a beach dress, why not try an oversized sun-hat? The capped frill sleeves allow for a statement hat to balance out your frame.
Best White Summer Maxi Dress
Anthropologie The Somerset Cutwork Maxi Dress [16] (£170)
It won't come as much of a surprise to learn that this dress is Anthropologie's best-reviewed dress ever. Its beautiful, whimsical style makes you want to be instantly teleported to Ibiza - cocktail in hand. With standard and plus sizes available, it's a great choice for all body types, the wrap-over v-neck is flattering on any bust size, and the elasticated waist draws you in round the middle. We're obsessed with the cut-out design and pretty scalloped edging on the arms and trim. It's definitely one that's going straight to the top of our summer wishlist.
Best White Party Dress
Mint Velvet Twist Feather Dress [17] (£189)
A white summer dress doesn't just have to be for the daytime. White also looks great for a night out too, especially if you have dark skin or that post-holiday glow. This fun minidress has a delicate feather trim to add a bit of glamour to your evening look. The twist-front neckline shows off your shoulders in a flattering way; opt for a pair of hoop or hanging earrings to frame your face. Wear with some minimalist heels so as not to distract from the dress. We'll be seeing see you at the bar!