This Is the One Dress Detail That's Taking Over Our Feeds Right Now—And We Are Utterly Hooked

Every year when summer rolls around, there's one item that always rises to the top of every fashion person's wishlist: the perfect dress. It's hardly surprising. With longer days, lighter fabrics, and more reasons to be out and about, there's something about warm-weather dressing that lends itself so naturally to dresses. From gauzy cotton maxis for park picnics to throw-on minis for weekends away, it's the time of year when dresses really earn their keep. And while we've seen everything from oversized shirting to painterly prints dominate our feeds, there's one detail that's been quietly gaining momentum and is now fully taking centre stage: scalloped edges. Or more specifically—the best scallop dresses.

These soft, wave-like trims have been steadily edging their way (pun intended) into the spotlight. At first, they crept into our saved folders via airy linen separates and delicate collars. But now, they've fully graduated from subtle detail to hero design feature. Think flirty hemlines, structured sleeves, cutout waistlines, and decorative borders that give classic silhouettes a fresh twist. The best scallop dresses don't just add visual interest—they elevate simple styles without relying on bold prints or flashy colours. It's the kind of detail that makes you look twice, even if you're just wearing a white cotton dress and sandals.

If you're wondering why you've suddenly started noticing them more often, you're not alone. While we saw iterations on the runways from brands like Chloé, Cecilie Bahnsen and Simone Rocha (who all incorporated curved edging into lacework and romantic silhouettes), the real takeover happened online. These dresses are the kind that translate well on camera—gentle scalloped trims catch the light in just the right way, offering texture and dimension without overwhelming a look. So it makes sense that this trend has moved swiftly from curated Instagram feeds and Pinterest boards to street style and actual wardrobes.

But what actually is a scallop dress? It's not so much about a specific shape or length—it's any dress that includes a scalloped finish, whether that's a mini with a curved hem, a tiered midi with scalloped panels, or a floaty maxi with broderie anglaise cut-outs forming subtle waves across the fabric. The versatility is part of the appeal. It can be bold or barely-there. Whimsical or sleek. This kind of detail brings softness and structure in equal measure, which is probably why it's been embraced across generations, from Gen Z in babydoll styles to older fashion insiders styling theirs with espadrilles and a structured tote.

If I've won you over by now, you're going to love me even more, as I've rounded up the best scallop dresses in the three lengths I think really define the look this season: mini, midi and maxi, below. Happy shopping.

Shop Our Favourite Scallop Dresses:

1. Mini Scallop Dresses

Style Notes: Whether you're heading to a rooftop bar, packing for a beach getaway, or just want something light to wear on a heatwave day in the city, mini dresses are a summer hero. The best scallop dresses in this category are playful, flattering, and—most importantly—easy. This length works particularly well with a scalloped edge as it allows the curved hem to stand out without competing with other elements. Look to structured poplin styles and even softer knits for transitional dressing. I've noticed more and more brands leaning into this silhouette as an easy way to elevate an otherwise simple dress. Just add a pair of sleek sandals or chunky trainers and you're set.

Shop Mini Scallop Dresses

2. Midi Scallop Dresses

Style Notes: Arguably the most versatile dress length, midis walk the line between relaxed and polished. The best scallop dresses in this category are the ones that can take you from brunch to evening plans without needing a full outfit change. Midis are where the scallop trend feels most wearable. These dresses still offer impact, but in a way that feels effortless. I've included some favourites below that I think work just as well with trainers as they do with slingbacks.

Shop Midi Scallop Dresses:

3. Maxi Scallop Dresses

Style Notes: Whether you lean towards long and floaty or structured and sleek, a maxi dress is the kind of wardrobe staple that doesn't ask for much but always delivers. And right now, the best scallop dresses in longer lengths are tapping into more directional detailing—think modern silhouettes, interesting cut-outs, and even subtle tailoring techniques that lend edge to what's traditionally seen as a romantic style.

Shop Maxi Scallop Dresses: