This season when we talk about power dressing, what we really mean is power dresses. After a few years of favouring separates, the fashion lot has turned its attention back to this one-stop method, and the enthusiasm has resulted in an almost endless stream of on-trend options. From wraps to kimonos, tea dresses to barely-held-together backless sheaths, there is an iteration to suit all tastes, occasions and budgets—no one style wins out.
Not only have these myriad versions been arriving thick and fast, but the ways to wear them are equally varied: We have witnessed more dress-over-jeans action in the past few months than we probably did throughout the '00s. Elsewhere it's become the norm to pair maxi dresses with sneakers, rather than the gladiator sandals of yore—reason enough then to swot up before buying.
We've boiled it down to the best dress trends for 2017 and added in our favorite shopping options along the way. You're welcome.
Shop kimono dresses:
You can wear this all year round—add tights come autumn.
It's a miracle this hasn't sold out yet…
Should you want to indulge in this trend…
From now on, all nights out will feature kimonos.
Shop off-the-shoulder dresses:
Wedding guest dress problem solved.
Related: The 8 Standout Sandal Trends That Will See You Through Summer
Polka dots are having a moment—especially in this form.
Shoulder-baring always looks most elegant with a midi hemline.
Your holiday packing list is now complete.
Shop boho smocks:
Wear with cowboy boots for 2017's take on bohemian.
You can definitely breeze through a city wearing this.
This luxe label specialises in feather-light dresses for bed and the beach.
Related: 6 Budget-Friendly Summer Trends That Are Anything But Throwaway
Steer clear of hippie accessories, and this dress is bang-on.
Shop tea dresses:
Pair with white espadrilles for the full vintage effect.
These French dresses are selling out as soon as they come online—but you can sign up for new-delivery alerts.
If we could design our own, it'd look like this.
Shop backless sundresses:
Little black dresses never fail to look chic in the sun.
Black grosgrain ribbons are adorning dresses all over the high street.
Related: 7 Classic Summer Outfits Fashion People Are Wearing Right Now
The high halter-neck front makes this a demure choice.
The perfect thrown-on number.
Shop slip dresses:
This slinky number features a peekaboo back.
A party classic in the making.
Make like the models and layer lingerie styles over denim.
Related: The Stylist Who Invented 2017's Most Iconic Look Explains How It Works IRL
All the hard work has been done for you.
Shop shirtdresses:
Who says shirtdresses have to be basic?
A wrap silhouette is always the most flattering.
Consider your office vibe sorted for the summer.
This colour is trending all over Pinterest.Next up, the best bridesmaid dresses in the business.
