Forget the gowns—this laid-back dress trend, favored at Cannes, is available at Zara, H&M, and Reformation.

Forget the gowns—this laid-back dress trend, favored at Cannes, is available at Zara, H&M, and Reformation.

      The last thing I anticipated while browsing the captivating images from the 2025 Cannes Film Festival this morning was to discover that, when not clad in head-to-toe couture, the celebrity fashion crowd has been adopting a casual dress trend that's much more laid-back: the classic polo dress. Striking a balance between sporty and chic, this polished yet comfortable silhouette has emerged as a favored choice for celebrities off the red carpet in Cannes. Conveniently, it’s also a trend that the high street is currently embracing.

      Seen on Alexa Chung, the model and presenter chose a black ribbed version in a sleek mini length. She paired it with pointed-toe slingbacks and a Balenciaga City Bag (£2090), demonstrating that even a simple dress can stand out alongside more luxurious items. Also flaunting the trend on the French Riviera, model Maria Borges opted for a knee-length, fitted design in a timeless striped pattern, complemented by pointed-toe heels and oversized sunglasses late last week.

      Perhaps it’s the preppy essence of the polo dress—its straightforward lines and sharp collar—that give it a summery vibe. A perfect example is Eva Longoria, who selected an ankle-length, light blue polo-style dress matched with simple nude pumps while taking a break between events last week. And while many celebrity outfits were undoubtedly designer labels, the beauty of this trend lies in its availability. The high street is filled with stylish options, ranging from H&M’s black ribbed mini (which closely resembles Chung’s) to Reformation’s striped piece that embodies the same effortless sophistication.

      Continue reading to explore our selection of the best polo dresses for summer, whether or not you're heading to Cannes.

      SHOP POLO DRESSES:

      ZARA

      Interlock Polo Collar Dress

      Style it with pointed-toe heels or pair it with elegant Mary Janes.

      H&M

      Collared Ribbed Dress

      Act fast: this easy and affordable LBD is unlikely to remain in stock for long.

      REFORMATION

      Hadley Cotton Polo Sweater Dress

      Pair it with low-profile sneakers, or create a preppy look by matching it with loafers and socks.

      ZARA

      Cable Knit Mini Dress

      RALPH LAUREN

      Cotton-Blend Polo Dress

      The dark navy color and midi length lend this dress an air of sophistication, making it perfect for styling with high-end accessories.

      ARKET

      Jersey Rib Midi Polo Dress

      LE KASHA

      Cashmere Midi Dress

      The cashmere material guarantees long-lasting comfort.

      GANT

      Striped Rib Knit Short Sleeve Rugger Dress

      This style is very close to selling out.

Forget the gowns—this laid-back dress trend, favored at Cannes, is available at Zara, H&M, and Reformation. Forget the gowns—this laid-back dress trend, favored at Cannes, is available at Zara, H&M, and Reformation. Forget the gowns—this laid-back dress trend, favored at Cannes, is available at Zara, H&M, and Reformation. Forget the gowns—this laid-back dress trend, favored at Cannes, is available at Zara, H&M, and Reformation. Forget the gowns—this laid-back dress trend, favored at Cannes, is available at Zara, H&M, and Reformation. Forget the gowns—this laid-back dress trend, favored at Cannes, is available at Zara, H&M, and Reformation. Forget the gowns—this laid-back dress trend, favored at Cannes, is available at Zara, H&M, and Reformation. Forget the gowns—this laid-back dress trend, favored at Cannes, is available at Zara, H&M, and Reformation. Forget the gowns—this laid-back dress trend, favored at Cannes, is available at Zara, H&M, and Reformation. Forget the gowns—this laid-back dress trend, favored at Cannes, is available at Zara, H&M, and Reformation. Forget the gowns—this laid-back dress trend, favored at Cannes, is available at Zara, H&M, and Reformation.

Other articles

Nothing shouts “Summer” quite like gingham—here’s how to wear it throughout the entire season. Nothing shouts “Summer” quite like gingham—here’s how to wear it throughout the entire season. a genuine classic This designer-inspired high-street bag is set to become the must-have purchase of summer 2025. This designer-inspired high-street bag is set to become the must-have purchase of summer 2025. It won't remain in stock for much longer. Salicylic Acid Cleansers Live Up to the Hype—Provided You Choose the Right Ones. Salicylic Acid Cleansers Live Up to the Hype—Provided You Choose the Right Ones. They are ideal for oily skin. "Your Hair Has a Fantastic Scent": Thank you, it's really this dreamy hair spray that enhances shine. "Your Hair Has a Fantastic Scent": Thank you, it's really this dreamy hair spray that enhances shine. Honestly, it also works as perfume. Some individuals dislike this color for pedicures, but I find it to be quite stylish. Some individuals dislike this color for pedicures, but I find it to be quite stylish. Forget about French tips. Ina Garten’s memoir offers numerous life-altering tips for individuals in their 20s and 30s. Ina Garten’s memoir offers numerous life-altering tips for individuals in their 20s and 30s. We were eager to delve into the renowned memoir of Ina Garten; below are the eight key lessons we gathered from our reading experience.

Forget the gowns—this laid-back dress trend, favored at Cannes, is available at Zara, H&M, and Reformation.