If You Only Buy One Dress This Summer, Please Make It This One
I don't like to be prescriptive when it comes to seasonal trends—I'm generally more of a fan of the the "wear what feels right for you" fashion philosophy. However, I might just have to make an exception for the dress style that's set to spike this summer, because I kid you not, this is one trend that's going to suit everyone. From checks to florals, minis to maxis, there may be a broad selection of styles out there, but these dresses are all united by a three key features: Puffed sleeves, button-up fastening and nipped-in waist, which apparently is a recipe for dress success. Also, there's a satisfying amount of Game of Thrones vibes to this look, which is never a bad thing IMO.
Style Notes: A great example of how you can make this dress style look more dressy. White strappy sandals complement Karina's floral Ghost dress perfectly.
It's unusual to find something that suits a range of body shapes, but this is one of the rare exceptions to the rule. It's perfect for those with pear shapes, as it skims over the hips and gives shape to your top half, but it will also look fab on curvier girls, as the structured bodice helps keep larger busts in check. You can also find styles with longer sleeves.
This is sure to be a dress that will come to your aid for all manner of events, from summer weddings to weekend barbecues. I've already got my hands on ASOS's checked maxi, which I intend to belt and wear with hiking sandals for work. Now I just need to the weather to catch up with my increasingly summery wardrobe... Scroll down to see and shop my edit of the best button-up, puff sleeve dresses.
Style Notes: Fashion editor Billie wore her checked Neon Rose number to a friends wedding and accessories with a cute headband.
Style Notes: These dresses were made for the windy British seaside. Ada's maxi looks very Bronte heroine with a basket bag and bare feet.
Shop Puff-Sleeved Dresses
Related: I Don't Mean to Brag, But I've Just Found Spring's #1 Dress
Related: Pretty Is In: 8 Dress Trends You'll See Everywhere This Spring
Related: 18 Super-Pretty Dresses I'd Like to Buy This Summer
Next up, we've already planned your summer party looks for you.
Joy Montgomery is a London-based fashion writer and shopping expert. She held the role of Shopping Editor atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK from 2018 to 2022, producing content that centered around worthwhile fashion buys, with a specialism in uncovering unique, indepdent brands and celebrating the joys of secondhand and vintage discoveries. Joy has sinced moved on to become the Shopping Editor at British Vogue.
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