No exaggeration—this throw-on linen dress is currently the most stylish item available on the high street.

No exaggeration—this throw-on linen dress is currently the most stylish item available on the high street.

      There’s no question about it—the summer season is my favorite time of year. The long evenings, warm days, and endless blue skies all feel invigorating. In addition to the mood-lifting advantages, summer also provides the simplest dressing solution: one fabulous dress plus a pair of sandals equals a stylish look with no effort required. As someone who relies on effortless, throw-on dresses, I spend some time each spring searching for the newest styles. I examine fabrics, fits, and price points, looking for silhouettes that are both classic and contemporary. However, this year, my usual search was unexpectedly brief—I found the perfect summer dress just a few weeks into the season.

      Made from a heavyweight linen-blend fabric, COS's A-Line Maxi Dress (£115) made a strong first impression. The deep chocolate brown color is a fantastic transitional shade—it naturally complements the rich, moody tones left from my winter wardrobe while also offering a striking contrast to the soft peach and pink hues I’m drawn to for the warmer months.

      With its generous A-line cut, the dress features a voluminous yet elegant silhouette that gently glides over the body, allowing for ample movement and breathability without being bulky. Discreet pockets add a practical element, and the true maxi length—just above my ankles at 5’7"—creates a flattering, elongated effect.

      Effortless, stylish, and wonderfully versatile, I plan to wear this dress with strappy sandals for casual weekend outings and dress it up with a slouchy clutch and heels for evening events. While I adore the chocolate brown option, I’ve also spotted a lovely apricot version that’s worth considering if you’re looking to incorporate more color into your spring wardrobe. At £115, it’s not the cheapest option on the high street, but after feeling the fabric and trying it on, I would have guessed it was significantly more expensive. This dress is a versatile staple that justifies its price through cost-per-wear; it’s the kind of dress you can rely on season after season.

      If you’re searching for a stylish summer dress, keep reading to shop COS's A-line maxi as well as my selection of other excellent linen dresses available.

      SHOP COS'S A-LINE LINEN-BLEND MAXI DRESS:

      COS

      A-Line Linen-Blend Maxi Dress

      The trend of chocolate brown isn’t fading anytime soon.

      COS

      A-Line Linen-Blend Maxi Dress

      This lovely apricot shade is an easy addition to a spring capsule wardrobe.

      SHOP MORE LINEN DRESSES:

      Zara

      Linen-Blend Draped Dress

      This beautiful sky blue color is currently trending.

      Marks & Spencer

      Linen Rich Round Neck Mini Shift Dress

      This effortless shift dress is available in UK sizes 6—24.

      H&M

      Balloon-Sleeved Dress

      You’ll find yourself wearing this puff-sleeve style repeatedly.

      Reiss

      Ruched Sleeveless Midi Dress

      I’m saving this for wedding season.

      Nobody's Child

      Brown Linen-Blend Maddie Midi Dress

      I can foresee this selling out quickly.

      Reformation

      Monette Linen Dress

      This dress is also available in five other colors.

      Faithfull

      Lydie Linen Maxi Dress

      I consistently return to Faithfull for their lovely summer dresses.

      Jigsaw

      Scallop Detail Linen Dress

      The scallop detailing elevates the charm of this pretty dress.

      No one does linen like Free People.

      Andre Otalora

      Kamar Tasseled Embroidered Linen Midi Dress

      Pair this with strappy sandals or dress it up with kitten heels.

      Stuad

      Laura Bead-Embellished Linen Maxi Dress

      I’m enamored with the beautiful color palette of this lovely linen dress.

No exaggeration—this throw-on linen dress is currently the most stylish item available on the high street. No exaggeration—this throw-on linen dress is currently the most stylish item available on the high street. No exaggeration—this throw-on linen dress is currently the most stylish item available on the high street. No exaggeration—this throw-on linen dress is currently the most stylish item available on the high street. No exaggeration—this throw-on linen dress is currently the most stylish item available on the high street. No exaggeration—this throw-on linen dress is currently the most stylish item available on the high street. No exaggeration—this throw-on linen dress is currently the most stylish item available on the high street. No exaggeration—this throw-on linen dress is currently the most stylish item available on the high street. No exaggeration—this throw-on linen dress is currently the most stylish item available on the high street. No exaggeration—this throw-on linen dress is currently the most stylish item available on the high street. No exaggeration—this throw-on linen dress is currently the most stylish item available on the high street. No exaggeration—this throw-on linen dress is currently the most stylish item available on the high street. No exaggeration—this throw-on linen dress is currently the most stylish item available on the high street. No exaggeration—this throw-on linen dress is currently the most stylish item available on the high street.

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No exaggeration—this throw-on linen dress is currently the most stylish item available on the high street.

I've tried on numerous spring and summer dresses, and the linen maxi dress from COS is definitely my top choice. Click here to explore the style.