Best 2024 summer dresses: Breezy maxis to party-friendly midis
Summer is about relaxation but on humid, sweaty days it can feel anything but laid-back. That’s where summer dresses come in — the easiest option for hot days, the perfect shift or wrap dress will become your go-to wardrobe staple.
Dresses are one of the most versatile items in our wardrobe as they can be easily dressed up or down for the beach, office or nights out. They’re also great pieces to layer with knitwear during that spring-summer transition period.
Our top pick is the Linen Scallop Midi Dress from Seed Heritage which has been hailed “very stylish” and “beautiful” by shoppers.
We’re also loving the Target Denim Shirt Maxi Dress that is a near-identical dupe of the Aje Colorado Denim Midi Dress but at a much more affordable price.
OUR TOP PICKS
EDITOR’S PICKS
Linen Scallop Midi Dress, $129.95 (down from $199.95) at Seed Heritage
Why we love it: Timeless; easy to dress up or down; breathable; has pockets.
What to consider: Some reviewers say the white colourway is a little see through;
Material: 100 per cent Linen | Colour: Black, White | Size: AU 4 to AU 16
What You Need To Know
If you’re after a stylish and fun summer dress, look no further this is chic midi from Seed Heritage. Made from 100 per cent French linen, this flattering piece features a strapless neckline with inner grip tape, scallop trim detailing, an empire waist, pockets, invisible zip fastening on the back and a timeless midi length. It’s easy to dress up or down, and perfect for any occasion.
Five-star reviewers say it’s a “beautiful dress” and “very stylish”.
“I love this dress. I got so many compliments and felt really lovely,” one wrote.
“Stunning SEED dress – very stylish and true to size,” another wrote.
Denim Shirt Maxi Dress, $70 at Target Australia
Why we love it: Affordable dupe; stylish transeasonal piece; flattering.
What to consider: Dye may transfer – avoid contact with light coloured garments, accessories and upholstery.
Material: Cotton | Colour: Denim | Size: AU 4 to AU 16
What You Need To Know
This long-sleeve denim midi is the perfect addition to your wardrobe. Whether you’re wearing it to a long weekend lunch or to work, it seriously will become one of your wardrobe’s hardest working pieces. Plus, with only a few weeks left of summer, this is something you can totally wear into autumn. It really is the perfect transeasonal piece.
And, it’s an almost perfect dupe of the Aje Colorado Denim Midi Dress that comes in at a cool $525 (We’ve just spotted it’s now on sale for $368 if you feel like treating yourself). That means by purchasing the Target dress instead you’re saving $455 or consider it an 87 per cent discount.
Cotton On Haven Slip Midi Dress, $59.99 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Versatile; breathable; affordable.
What to consider: Some reviewers say the white colourway is see-through; it runs small; maybe be too long for those who are petite.
Material: 55 per cent Linen and 45 per cent Viscose-Rayon | Colour: Desert Sage, Black, White | Size: AU 6 to AU 24
What You Need To Know
Made from a linen-viscose blend, this light and airy number will be your go-to all summer long. It features a soft V-neckline, slim straps, splits on the side and the perfect midi length. It skims your figure ever so slightly and looks great when paired with chunky sandals or heels. Wear it to your next lunch with the girls for an easy ensemble.
Available in sizes AU 6 to AU 24, five-star reviewers say it’s the “perfect summer staple” and “effortlessly chic”.
“This is the perfect summer dress with 90s vibes … Nice and cool on a hot day and I will be wearing this non-stop in the coming months! Will def be purchasing more in this style. Dress is true to size,” one wrote.
“Perfect black midi dress for every occasion. Size runs true. Material is nice and not too heavy. Perfect for spring and summer,” another wrote.
Jetset Backless Maxi Dress – Green, $149 (down from $250) at JETS
Why we love it: Elegant shape; open back; beautiful green hue.
What to consider: Limited size range; may be too long for those who are petite.
Material: 100 per cent Linen | Colour: Green, Black | Size: XS to L
What You Need To Know
If you’re looking for the perfect summer dress, this. is. it.
Made from 100 per cent linen, this lightweight and airy maxi features a flattering boat neckline, comfy elasticated waistband, gathered detail, adjustable self-tie straps and a flirty open back. Designed to perfection, the beautiful bright green hue and luxe cut are itching for a long lunch, balmy evening out and beyond.
Team it with sandals or heels, chunky gold hoops and a little clutch for a look that’s sure to turn heads this summer.
It’s available XS to L and in a black colourway.
Free People Onda Tube Midi Dress, $132.98 at Revolve
Why we love it: TikTok viral; has pockets; flattering design.
What to consider: Limited size range; top unlined; some reviewers say it runs big.
Material: 100 per cent Cotton | Colour: Ivory, Red, Black | Size: XS to XL
What You Need To Know
When we say this dress screams ‘romance in a midi’ we mean it. Featuring an oh-so-flattering strapless neckline, pockets, tube-style bodice and a floaty A-line skirt with a pointed waist design, this timeless piece will be your new go-to for summer days out. The bodice is crafted from a cotton-elastane blend for comfort and the skirt is made from 100 per cent cotton for a lightweight and breathable feel.
Available in sizes XS to XL, one reviewer on Google wrote: “Perfect summer dress. This dress is too cute! Perfect for a picnic, summer stroll and more. It’s not see through which I love – 10/10.”
Lily Loves Australian Cotton Rib Racer Midi Dress – Oatmeal Marle, $35 at Target Australia
Why we love it: Affordable; size inclusive; universally flattering; lightweight.
What to consider: Some reviewers say the split is quite high; black colourway picks up lint and fluff
Material: Cotton and Elastane | Colour: Oatmeal Marle, Black | Size: XXS to XXXL
What You Need To Know
A ribbed dress has perhaps the lowest cost per wear of any item in our wardrobes as you can pop it on in any season. Wear it with slides or sandals in summer or with a coat and boots when the weather gets cool. Plus, it is universally flattering and sure to suit everyone.
We also love how comfy a ribbed dress is. The stretch means that there is no digging in while the slim fit ensures that you still look put together. This one features large side-seam splits so you’ll be able to get around with no issues too. A true win-win.
And at $35, it really doesn’t get much better.
SNDYS x REVOLVE Tahlia Dress, $102.29 at Revolve
Why we love it: Lightweight; perfect LWD; stunning back detail.
What to consider: Unlined; may be too short for those taller than 5’5.
Material: 100 per cent Cotton | Colour: White | Size: XXS to XXL
What You Need To Know
When you think of a summer dress, you think something short, fun and flirty. This pick from Revolve is just the ticket. Made from 100 per cent cotton in a lightweight linen-like fabric, this easy breezy piece is perfect to throw on no matter the occasion.
The crisscross back straps paired with the bust cut-out help to add a little bit of sensuality while the white colourway ensures it is the perfect summer dress.
Wear with a sleek back bun on a hot, humid night and you will look composed, chic and ready to go.
Cotton On Lexi Shirred Maxi Dress, $35 (down from $69.99) at Cotton On
Why we love it: Comfortable; size inclusive; has pockets; easy to dress up or down.
What to consider: Some reviewers have experienced the straps breaking; top part runs small.
Material: 100 per cent Cotton | Colour: Blue Chalk, Woodland, White, Dark Oak, Black | Size: AU 6 to AU 24
What You Need To Know
Featuring a smocked bodice and square neckline, this summery dress is made in a very flattering cut that suits almost every body type. Crafted from 100 per cent cotton, it is also super breathable and flowy making it perfect to throw on for a casual summer’s day.
“Love this dress! I bought this while in my third trimester as it is flowy and doesn’t cling. So comfortable and will still wear after I give birth. I want all colours!! I bought a size 22 and fits well with stretch,” one five-star reviewer wrote.
“the prettiest and best dress i have ever owned. You can also tuck in the straps and make the dress strapless which looks so pretty,” another wrote.
BEST PARTY SUMMER DRESSES
Tussah Lynda Mini Dress, $97.46 (down from $129.95) at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Flattering; versatile.
What to consider: No stretch.
Material: 40 per cent Linen, 40 per cent Viscose, 10 per cent Polyester and 10 per cent Cotton | Colour: Red, Maul Floral | Size: AU 6 to AU 18
What You Need To Know
There are times that call for a red dress and a hot summer’s night is definitely one of them. This fiery mini dress is perfect for the dance floor with its lightweight linen-blend material, short puff sleeves and wrap-around waist tie.
If you’re looking for an eye-catching fit, this one won’t let you down.
AnotherChill Women’s Casual Lounge Slip Long Dress, from $18.26 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Affordable dupe; easy pull-on style; figure-flattering.
What to consider: Some reviewers say it’s see-through; material is thin.
Material: 95 per cent Polyester and 5 per cent Spandex | Colour: Black, Brown, Pink, Purple, Green, Grey, Khaki, Navy Blue, Rose, Wine, Blue, Orange, Light Purple | Size: XXS Petite to XL
What You Need To Know
If you’ve been on social media at all in the past few years, you would’ve seen the viral SKIMS dress. But at $142, the price is a bit much for a lot of us. But thankfully, due to the power of TikTok, we’ve managed to find a perfect dupe for a very reasonable price. TikToker @trendycurvy tried the SKIMS dupe, admitting she was dubious before trying it.
Her tone quickly changed once she had the dress on though. “I stand corrected,” she said. It’s “very comfortable” and “snatching me in all the right places.”
The dress also has over 3200 five-star reviews on Amazon.
“The dress is such a soft buttery material, it is stretchy but fits like a glove. The dress reaches the ground and is so nice and flowy at the bottom while it snatches you up where it needs to be,” wrote one happy customer.
Another said: “The material is soft and stretchy and is a near perfect dupe.”
Petal & Pup Franklin Dress – Mocha, $89 at Petal & Pup
Why we love it: Stylish and flattering; perfect for Summer.
What to consider: Runs small.
Material: Rayon and Viscose | Colour: Mocha, Ebony, Rust Floral, Navy Print | Size: AU 4 to AU 20
What You Need To Know
This breezy style is a bestseller at Petal & Pup. With a flattering neckline and shirred cuff sleeves, it has a front thigh split for added comfort during the warmer months.
The Franklin dress frequently sells out and has an average 4.6 star rating from over 220 reviews. Shoppers praise the “super cute” style, with one saying they got “so many compliments” when they wore it out.
“This dress is super flattering and fits in all the right places and can be dressed up or down easily. A new staple for my wardrobe!” one five-star review says.
“It’s a great comfortable dress for summer with a very flattering fit. I absolutely can dress it up with a heel or dress down with shoes,” another wrote.
Dazie Tea Party Linen Blend Midi Dress, $30 (down from $89.99) at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Size inclusive; lightweight; feminine design.
What to consider: Split may be too high for some; cannot be returned or exchanged unless faulty.
Material: 55 per cent Linen and 45 per cent Cotton | Colour: White & Red Ditsy Floral, Pink & Yellow Floral | Size: AU 6 to AU 20
What You Need To Know
This gorgeous midi dress from Dazie is another floral print that has caught our eye. The linen-cotton blend dress has frilled straps, a flattering square neckline and a leg split. It’s a beautiful piece that flatters your figure effortless, and it can easily be dressed up for day parties and events or down for casual lunches and beyond.
Reiss Women’s Marca-Satin Occasion Midi Dress – Blush, from $149 (down from $595) at OZSALE
Why we love it: Sophisticated design; elasticated waistband for comfort; has pockets.
What to consider: Price varies depending on size.
Material: 100 per cent Polyester | Colour: Blush | Size: UK 6 to UK 16
What You Need To Know
Reiss’ clothes are on trend while still managing to look timeless — they literally make clothes fit for a princess that are also affordable enough for us mere mortals to buy.
Better yet, OZSALE has a range of the Kate Middleton-approved brand’s dresses available at a discounted price.
Our pick is this blush satin midi dress thanks to its tie-back high neckline and stylish draping. It also has a concealed zip and button fastening meaning you’ll look picture-perfect whatever the occasion.
Pretty Lavish Curve ruched bandeau midaxi dress in ditsy brown floral, $68 (down from $151) at ASOS
Why we love it: Flattering slim fit; plus-size approved.
What to consider: May be too long for those shorter than 5’5.
Material: 100 per cent Polyester | Colour: Ditsy Floral | Size: AU 18 to AU 26
What You Need To Know
This strapless floral number can be easily dressed up or down depending on your shoes, plus it makes a great transeasonal piece as you can easily pair it with a cardigan for a stylish spring look.
It also has ruched detailing along the sides and back, as well as a kick split.
BEST CASUAL SUMMER DRESSES
Dazie Main Focus Mini Dress, $69.99 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Staple summer LBD; fully lined; airy.
What to consider: May be too short for those that are tall; no stretch
Material: 100 per cent Cotton | Colour: Black, White, Brown | Size: AU 6 to AU 18
What You Need To Know
This 100 per cent cotton mini dress is perfect for any summer occasion. Whether you’re throwing it on to go to the beach, pairing it with slides to duck down to the shops or popping it on for a few cocktails in the late afternoon, this dress will see you through.
It’s flirty and fun and the simple design means it won’t go out of fashion any time soon.
Soft Lounge Long Slip Dress, $80 at SKIMS
Why we love it: Size inclusive; figure flattering; versatile; stretchy.
What to consider: Some reviewers say it clings; thin.
Material: 91 per cent Modal and 9 per cent Spandex | Colour: Onyx, Heather Grey | Size: XXS to 4XL
What You Need To Know
Like Kim Kardashian’s famous champagne photo shoot this dress broke the internet when it was first released by the shapewear company. To this day shoppers continue to rave about just how comfy — not to mention flattering — this SKIMS dress is.
Unsurprisingly it’s gone viral on TikTok, where the hashtag #skimsdress has been viewed a whopping 674 million times.
Shoppers rave on the video app about how the “amazing” dress “fits like a glove”, with many saying the style is so supportive you don’t need to wear a bra with it either.
Whatever your opinion on the Kardashians may be, the consensus is that this dress is a staple piece you’ll want to invest in for summer.
Sitting Pretty Dress, $89.95 at Showpo
Why we love it: Size inclusive; lined; flowy silhouette
What to consider: Runs large; may be too long for those shorter than 5’5; may be a bit revealing in the bust area.
Material: 100 per cent Viscose | Colour: Natural, Khaki, Rust, Black | Size: AU 4 to AU 20
What You Need To Know
With a size range spanning from an AU 6 to 20, this effortless summer dress can easily be dressed up or down to suit the occasion. The fitted waistline cinches your waist, while the button skirt allows for a little leg, or none at all depending on your mood.
BEST SUMMER WORK DRESSES
Atmos&Here Greta Flutter Sleeve Linen Blend Midi Dress, $74.99 (down from $99.99) at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Sophisticated shape; lined; work appropriate.
What to consider: No stretch.
Material: 54 per cent Cotton and 46 per cent Linen | Colour: Black Floral | Size: AU 6 to AU 16
What You Need To Know
This is the quintessential work dress with a little twist. If you’re after something stylish, work appropriate and unique, look no further. Crafted from a cotton-linen blend, this sleek and chic midi features short flutter sleeves, a round neckline, gathering at the waist and a beautiful floral print all over.
M.N.G Dalas2 Dress, $129.95 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Timeless design; work appropriate; lightweight.
What to consider: Neckline may be too revealing for some.
Material: 100 per cent Polyester | Colour: Black | Size: XS to XL
What You Need To Know
Made from 100 per polyester, this lightweight midi features a V-neckline, wrap design with a self-tie belt and short sleeves. It’s a timeless piece that’s easy to dress up or down and wear for any occasion. Pair it with sneakers or sandals for a casual corporate look or heels or flats if your work requires a more formal dress code.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A SUMMER DRESS
There’s really no “right” or “wrong” answer when it comes to fashion, it all generally comes down to your personal preference. So, while we can’t tell you exactly what to choose – we can tell you the few factors to take into consideration when finding a summer dress that’s perfect for you.
Budget: Are you willing to spend a pretty penny on a quality summer dress or are you after an affordable piece?
Material: There a tonne of summer dresses made from different materials, so you should consider investing in pieces made from pure linen pieces which is lightweight and breathable – they tend to be more expensive, however pieces made from cotton or polyester tend to be more affordable but are still lightweight and cooling.
Length: Do you prefer a mini, midi or maxi dress?
Occasion: Choosing the right summer dress according to the occasion is generally important. For a casual day out, you could opt for a flowy mini dress pared back with sneakers. For a day party, a tiered midi dress with chunky sandals works perfectly as it’s not too casual and not too dressy. For a dressy soiree, a figure-skimming maxi with a kitten heel does the trick.
However, these aren’t hard and fast ‘rules’ but just general ideas of what type of summer dresses you can wear to certain occasions – you can of course wear what you prefer.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
There are many summer dress options available in the market and it’s impossible to test every style out there. However to help you find the best pair, we spoke to Rozalia Russian and asked for her tips on styling summer dresses for a night out, we also sifted through reviews and and ratings from product review sites to help you find the right summer dress for any occasion from budget to premium.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT ARE THE BEST SUMMER DRESS STYLES?
Maxi: A long dress that reaches to at least your ankles, a maxi is a perfect summer option because they are usually made from light materials (plus their long length offers extra sun protection). They’re also versatile and can be easily dressed up or down depending on your accessories.
Halter: Featuring a neckline that goes around the neck leaving the shoulders bare, a halter dress is a sophisticated look perfect for more formal occasions. A floral halter dress is a timeless summer classic.
Shift: Typically short, a shift dress hangs loose from the body, making it ideal for the warmer months when tighter styles can feel too restrictive. Shift dresses are a great office wear or casual summer option.
WHAT ARE THE BEST MATERIALS FOR A SUMMER DRESS?
Linen: Top of the list is linen. Made from natural fibres, linen is woven loosely together meaning heat can escape more easily from the body. It also has the added benefit of feeling cool on the skin, drying quickly and lasting a long time.
Cotton: Affordable and natural, cotton is another excellent choice, especially given it’s so widely available. Cotton is lightweight, soft on the skin and will dry easily if it gets wet with sweat.
Polyester: Ideal for activewear, polyester sneaks its way into many summer dresses alongside cotton. Made from plastic fibres, polyester is sweat wicking and stays cool even when hot.
HOW TO DRESS FOR A NIGHT OUT
Unsure of how to style a dress for a night out? Rozalia Russian told news.com.au it’s all about making sure your clothes fit and feel comfortable.
“Tailoring and wearing the right undergarments is my number one tip. There is nothing worse than being out and about and having to adjust your dress because the straps are too long or your dress is falling down at the bust,” she said.
“I have all my dresses tailored to ensure they fit me like a glove, and I don’t need to worry about adjusting anything while I am out.”
Rozalia also recommends investing in shapewear like Spanx as “not only does it smooth everything out including underwear lines, but it also creates another barrier for those pieces in your wardrobe that are a little bit see-through”.
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