6 Chic and Effortless Dress Outfits That Londoners Are Embracing This Summer

      As summer arrives, numerous items get their moment to shine—such as tank tops, linen trousers, and sandals. Our email inboxes are filled with “light and breezy” options vying for our attention, but one category stands out to Londoners: dresses. Unless you've experienced a London heatwave, it's difficult to comprehend how sticky and uncomfortable it can become, especially for those commuting via the Tube, like many of the editors at Who What Wear UK. Summer in the city can be delightful, with charming park dates and stops for iced matcha, yet it's also filled with moments of frustration over the UK's lack of air conditioning or its struggle to cope with the heat. This is why dresses are a vital part of a London summer wardrobe. Opt for a linen or lightweight cotton design with a flowing silhouette, and it feels almost like wearing nothing at all. There’s no uncomfortable chafing around the waist, arms, or legs, and no synthetic materials clinging to your skin—just complete sartorial freedom.

      Then there's the simplicity of putting together a dress outfit: it's essentially a one-and-done scenario. Just add some stylish shoes and a basket bag, and you’re set for whatever the day may bring. Whether for the office, a pub outing, or a trip to Hampstead Heath, every occasion is enhanced by a dress.

      Below, I've compiled some of my favorite summer dress outfits from London that I've drawn inspiration from, especially in this weather.

      1. Linen Mini Dress + Strappy Sandals

      Style Notes: When temperatures soar to 30 degrees in London, a lightweight linen dress is the most sensible choice. A mini version is even better. Many of them are quite simple, so pairing one with strappy, low-heeled sandals adds a touch of polish.

      Shop the Look:

      - Reformation Jessi Linen Dress: The perfect mini for scorching days.

      - CHLOÉ Summer Banana Embellished Embroidered Raffia Tote: Unique details set this raffia bag apart.

      - MANGO Heeled Sandals With Thin Strap: Don’t these look far more luxurious than their price?

      2. Butter Yellow Dress + Flat Sandals

      Style Notes: Butter yellow is this season's go-to color, so it’s no surprise that Londoners are wearing it in dress form. I love the idea of pairing it with a bolder yellow shade, like Eni has here.

      Shop the Look: This is such an elegant piece.

      - LOEWE Flamenco Mini Leather Clutch: Pair with the dress for a chic monochromatic look.

      - Jimmy Choo Aciel Sandal Flat: Perfect with dresses, jeans, skirts, or linen trousers.

      3. LBD + Woven Bag + Ballet Flats

      Style Notes: You may wonder—can one really wear a black dress in the summer? An LBD is a classic for a reason and works in warm weather, provided you select a breathable fabric like cotton or linen. Enhance the look with warm-weather accessories for a seasonal vibe.

      Shop the Look:

      - & Other Stories Ruched Midi Dress

      - Monica Vinader Sterling Silver Aria Cord Necklace: Also available in gold for those who prefer it.

      - DRAGON DIFFUSION Santa Croce Woven-Leather Top-Handle Basket Bag: The essential summer bag.

      - hush Mesh Mary Jane Ballerina Flats: I'm a fan of the squared-off toe.

      4. Gingham Dress + Matching Headscarf

      Style Notes: Charlotte, who lives in Lincoln, has a gingham look she wore for a day in the city that’s too good not to feature. The matching headscarf? Perfect.

      Shop the Look: Charlotte's exact dress—we’re immediate fans.

      - BRUNELLO CUCINELLI EYEWEAR Aviator-Style Tortoiseshell Acetate and Gold-Tone Sunglasses: A stylish finishing touch for this whimsical outfit.

      - Dune London Woven Mary Jane Ballet Flats

      5. Denim Dress + Tan Accessories

      Style Notes: A denim dress may not be the ideal choice for extremely hot days, but it’s a fail-safe option for pleasantly warm weather. It's structured enough to look intentional, yet casual enough to pair with sneakers or flat strappy sandals.

      Shop the Look:

      - Mint Velvet Indigo Denim Midi Dress: A timeless combination of square neckline and puffed sleeves.

      - Sézane Justine Basket Bag: Perfect for tossing in all your essentials.

      - Sézane Adeline Low Sandals: Sandals you'll want to wear all summer.

      6. Floral Dress + Clogs

      Style Notes: If you believed floral dresses couldn't be incredibly elegant, I'm delighted to say you were mistaken. Just take a look at Francesca in her lovely DÔEN style for proof!

      Shop the Look: A timeless floral piece suitable for weddings, weekends, and vacations.

      - BIRKENSTOCK Boston Logo-Embossed Suede Clogs