We Test Before You Purchase: The Top Summer Dresses Available
Our “We Try Before You Buy” series is designed to alleviate the stress of shopping and reduce the number of trips to the Post Office each month to return unsuccessful online purchases. We evaluate new-season items and styling suggestions so you don't have to, and this month, our editors tested numerous new summer dresses to present you with their selection of truly worthwhile investments. We finally have the summer weather we've eagerly anticipated, but dressing for it can be quite challenging. With rising temperatures and limited air conditioning, we've found ourselves in heatwave survival mode, making morning outfit planning all the more difficult. After navigating spring's deceptively cool beginnings in blouses and jeans, it’s time to opt for something lighter, and a key piece stands out as perfect for the season. Out with the jeans and trainers, and in with light layers and shorter hemlines; this season's ideal summer outfit revolves around dresses and flat sandals.
Chic yet casual, effortless yet refined, dresses offer the simplest instant outfit for those summer days that require an uncomplicated style. While we've been focusing on the varying lengths of skirts, we may have overlooked the potential of a well-tailored dress. With brands like Celine, Chloé, and Stella McCartney making statement dresses a highlight this season, we’re ready to embrace them again. Whether you prefer the romantic puff sleeve, slinky slip, or minimalist midi, there’s no specific dress code that doesn’t have the perfect style available. To assist you in navigating the vast selection of new summer dresses out there, we decided to try on some of the leading options to showcase pieces that genuinely impressed our editors. Scroll down to explore our favorites from the best summer dresses in 2026.
The Best Occasion Dress:
"As someone who typically shies away from color, the appeal of this sunshine-hued dress is undeniable. This asymmetrical linen dress will carry me through all my summer events and vacations, and it even includes a silver floral brooch if you wish to add a metallic touch to the shoulder for special occasions." — Eleanor Vousden, Beauty Editor.
Maje
Asymmetrical Linen-Blend Dress
Pros and Cons: When we label pieces as 'showstoppers,' this is what we mean. Suitable for destination weddings and formal evening events, this dress is designed to capture attention, with unforgettable details from its vibrant hue to the removable brooch. The linen fabric is ideal for hot weather, providing extra ventilation. However, note that a dress this elegant does require careful maintenance. It must not be washed, bleached, or tumble dried (specialist dry clean only!) and should be ironed on the lowest setting to maintain its crispness and brightness. Additional Information: 88% linen, 12% polyamide (at least 50% of the main fabric comes from traceable European linen fibers).
Shop More Occasion Dresses:
- LIBEROWE: Aubrey Floral-Print Silk-Chiffon Gown
- FAITHFULL: Izaro Tencel and Linen-Blend Maxi Dress
- LA LIGNE: La Ligne Pastel Yellow Ruched Jersey Maxi Dress
The Best White Cotton Dress:
"I usually wait for summer to wear dresses, and when I do, I prefer bohemian styles with lots of detail. That's what drew me to Rixo's enchanting cotton mini. My summer schedule is packed with festivals, parties, weddings, and picnics, so I need easy styles that can fit into a suitcase and still look great with heeled sandals or cowboy boots—and thankfully, this dress addresses all my needs. It's breathable, light, and cute without being overly frilly, making it a staple for the hotter months ahead." — Sophie Cookson, Senior Analyst.
Rixo
Inez Cotton Mini Dress in White Lilly Embroidery Ivory
Pros and Cons: Whether it’s beautiful blouses or enchanting dresses, Rixo excels at fresh, feminine attire. This is an evolution of the brand's popular Maribelle and Erika blouses, transitioning into a bohemian mini. Unlike sheer blouses, this dress is partially lined for lightweight comfort without transparency, and it seamlessly transitions from festival-ready with tall boots to great for weekend errands with a basket bag and flats. Sizes range from 6 to 20, which is an improvement over some premium offerings, but petite or tall shoppers may want to try it on due to the absence of height alternatives. Additional Information: Outer is 100% Cotton. Hand wash cold.
Shop More White Cotton Dresses:
- M&S: Cotton Blend Ruffle Midaxi Knitted Dress
- Abercrombie: Bra-Free Cap Sleeve Dipped Waist Midi Dress
- Toteme: Scoop Poplin Dress White
The Best Printed Dress:
"When searching for a summer dress that makes a statement, Réalisation Par is always my go-to. This brand balances a sophisticated, fashion-forward vibe with everyday wearability, appearing on trendsetters like Hailey Bieber, Olivia Rodrigo, and
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We Test Before You Purchase: The Top Summer Dresses Available
Minis, midis, and flowing maxis—we test this season's trending dresses to deliver our impartial review of those truly worth purchasing this season.