The Dress Report: Key Trends, Brands, and Styling Tips to Understand This Summer

      With summer approaching at last, it's the ideal time to examine the season’s most sought-after item—the dress. Summer prompts a desire to swap out jeans, knitwear, and suede layers for something a bit more light and enjoyable. I've taken it upon myself to assess the current dress trends. As a fashion editor, I consistently sift through runway images, evaluate street style photos, analyze Instagram, gather insights from colleagues and fashion friends, and delve into archival photography to pinpoint the key styles emerging in a significant way; recently, my focus has been on summer dresses.

      Dresses are a staple in wardrobes year-round, but they truly excel in summer. The summer dress comes in so many variations that there’s always something to match your style, and this year's selections reflect that diversity. With a wealth of resources at hand, I’ve embarked on creating the definitive guide to dresses for 2025. Keep reading for my discoveries regarding the most important trends, brands, styling methods, and top-selling dresses that are significant this summer.

      **The Dress Report: Your Guide to Summer 2025 in Dresses**

      **Small Brands, Big Impact**

      Peachy Den, Susamusa, Kitri, Sister Jane, Rayan, Zeena Shah

      A distinct wave of small, independent designers is gradually achieving cult status. Brands like Peachy Den and Susamusa, rooted in the British capital, epitomize cool London style, drawing influence from '90s and '00s Brit-pop culture. "I’m very nostalgic," remarks Isabella Weatherby, founder and creative director of Peachy Den. "I often look back at my childhood clothes, memory boxes, and diaries, hoping they inspire new ideas." It’s no surprise that contemporary stars such as Olivia Dean, Dua Lipa, Raye, and Beabadoobee have been spotted in the brand’s dresses and separates, enhancing their viral popularity.

      For a more whimsical, English-country-garden aesthetic, Kitri Studios, Sister Jane, and Damson Madder have become trusted names among those in the know. Their collections are characterized by statement fabrics, lace trims, bow details, and charming designs; particularly, their best-selling dresses stand out. "Storytelling is a vital part of the design process at Sister Jane," says senior designer Bernice Arriagada. "Each collection has its narrative, and each dress is shaped by that. Our inspirations come in various forms, but vintage influences are always at the forefront. Whether it’s for a celebration, a weekend trip, or simply because, our customer desires a dress that feels special." Similarly, Haeni Kim, founder of Kitri Studios, shares, "We all want to look and feel incredible in a dress—something easy, comfortable, and versatile."

      **Shop Dresses From Small Brands:**

      - **DREAM SISTER JANE**: Haven Ruffle Midi Dress - Ruffles for days! It gives vintage vibes.

      - **KITRI**: Danna Tulip Print Dress - So delicate and sweet, yet very wearable for daytime.

      - **PEACHY DEN**: The Marie Knit Mini Dress in Jam - A cool-girl pillar-box red dress that will never go out of style.

      - **DAMSON MADDER**: Angelina Midi Dress - Damson Madder has established its reputation. This one is so fun!

      - **DREAM SISTER JANE**: Grassland Cross Straps Midi Dress

      **Why the '90s Feel So Now**

      It’s no surprise that the red-carpet fashions of the 1990s are once again influencing today's leading runway designers. When you think of icons from the '90s, names like Kate Moss, Sarah Jessica Parker, Halle Berry, Naomi Campbell, and Gwyneth Paltrow come to mind, and their choices for award shows, parties, and evening outings showcase a distinct style. These nostalgic icons favored slinky dresses with straight cuts or bias cuts, often kept minimally adorned in simple tones. It seems that the cult dress brands of today are taking cues and revisiting these styles. Quiet-luxury brands like The Row and Khaite, along with Stockholm-based Toteme, continue the legacy of icons like Calvin Klein, Jil Sander, and Prada, offering understated dress options for those seeking a simplified lifestyle.

      **Shop '90s-Inspired Dresses:**

      - **TOTEME**: Compact Knit Halter Dress - The simpler, the better with Toteme’s refined options.

      - **THE ROW**: Nicole Dress in Silk - A beautifully understated choice. Pair with minimal accessories.

      - **KHAITE**: Isabella Dress in Bone - A modern marvel. Khaite is currently a hot topic.

      - **KHAITE**: Tulula Silk Poplin Slip Dress

      - **THE ROW**: Kole Satin Maxi Dress - Monochromatic yet otherworldly; The Row excels in minimalism.

      **Australian Brands of Note**

      DISSH