If there’s one thing I’m certain about, it’s that I’m a dress person. Ask any of my friends, family, or colleagues—they’ll all confirm it. So, it should come as no surprise that when it comes to the seasons I most enjoy dressing for, spring and summer take the top spot.
Living in the UK often means my dress-wearing days are few and far between, but with the gorgeously sunny weather we’ve been treated to recently, I’m pleased to report that dresses are back at the forefront of my wardrobe. I'm not fussy when it comes to styles—I love a mini, maxi, or midi, and I’ll happily wear any sleeve (though I do have a soft spot for a puff). That said, I naturally gravitate towards simplicity: styles free from heavy details or bold prints that could date over time. It’s a category I allow myself to invest in, so when I add a new piece to my collection, I want it to have lasting appeal and the ability to be styled in multiple ways. That doesn't mean I only shop designer, though. There are plenty of fantastic, high-quality dresses on the high street, you just have to know where to look....
One of my best buys last year was this ASOS cotton poplin dress.
Over the last few days, I’ve been doing just that and after plenty of research, it's these 23 simple dresses that have made it onto my final shortlist. There’s a mix of budget-friendly styles that still feel special, along with a few luxury picks that I know will be worth the investment, but most importantly, every style is easy to wear and effortlessly elegant—ready to throw on and go with just five minutes’ notice.
So whether you’re a fellow dress devotee looking for a new addition to your collection or you're just dipping your toes into the world of dresses and want to start simple, I’m confident there’s something here for you. Scroll on to discover my edit of the best simple dresses for spring/summer 2025.
Simple needn't mean plain! The easy, throw-on silhouette of this style combined with the classic broderie fabrication ensures it's timeless and effortless.
The Best Simple, Throw-On Dresses for Summer:
This pale yellow style is timeless but still trendy.
Dress this up with heeled mules or down with flip flops.
I have a strong feeling this Other Stories dress will sell out... not least because it's one of the more bra-friendly tank dresses we've spotted recently.
I think the emboridered detail is so pretty here.
Simple dresses needn't be neutral. This Matteau number works thanks to it's easy silhouette and fuss-free deisgn.
I have this H&M dress in white from a few years ago and still bring it out every single summer.
Again, proof that a simple dress doesn't have to mean colourless! This throw-on shape is perfect for holidays or city heatwaves.
A shirt dress is such an essential part of my summer work wardrobe.
It might be hard to tell here, but this COS dress is actually a very pale lilac hue, which I think is beautiful.
This also comes in red, black and yellow.
Just gorgeous! And a perfect wedding guest dress too, in my opinion.
This went straight in my basket when I saw it online last week. It's since arrived and I can confirm it's even more gorgeous in person, and is well worth the slightly higher (for H&M) price tag.
I don't think I need to explain just how useful a great LBD like this is!
Another simple, throw-on style that gets my seal of approval.
M&S never fails me when it comes to dresses. This little white mini will be so handy on holiday but also when it's hot in the UK and I need to feel put-together but cool.
DÔEN's dresses are so good, I had to include 2 of them!
I'm already eyeing this up for my honeymoon...
Faithful is one of my favourite brands for high-quality summer pieces that aren't eye-wateringly expensive.
A very chic drop-waist style that you can wear with heels as well as flats and sandals.
I love white and black, but there's something extra chic about a stone-y hue like the above, don't you think?
This one looks so comfy, and pairs perfectly with trainers!
If, like me, you prefer a loose silhouette, allow me to turn your attention to this stunning Rohe midi. It's an investment, yes, but I just know I'd come back to it time and time again.
Incredibly pretty and prefect for summer!
