The word "stalwart" is a funny one. It certainly doesn't sound glamorous, but by definition, it's an absolute hero—something that is loyal, reliable and hardworking. It can be a wardrobe hero, too—in the context of dresses, that is. With summer finally arriving, many of us will be turning back to dresses as a key part of our wardrobes. But you might find that your selection is filled with occasion styles or dressier silhouettes that aren't quite what a relaxed summer's day calls for. Thankfully, we know all about brilliant frocks, and have done the hard part of searching for the best casual dresses around to make warm-weather dressing even easier.
Like any fashion piece, when it comes to dresses there's an array of different styles to choose from. There's form-hugging silhouettes, draping, cut-outs and much more to choose from. When we look to casual styles, these can often feel a little too pared back, and slightly underwhelming. Whilst we want a relaxed edge, we still look out for those finer details or cuts that add an elegant edge even for a daytime affair. It takes a keen eye and years of experience to hunt down these everyday gems, but thankfully we have both.
That extra shot of refinement can come in many forms. There's the most simple styles like a tank dress that pulls on the refinement of a tank top with the drama of an a-line skirt. Shirring and ruching is the pretty touch that can take a classic frock to new fashion heights with a pretty twist. With the warm weather approaching, linen fabrics are not only ideal for keeping cool but also fit the part due to an innate relaxed feel thanks to their natural crinkle. One dress that truly does it all is the slip dress, able to be dressed up or down for various occasions with ease. With these as key features for the perfect casual-yet-elegant balance, we've curated a sleek edit of the very best daytime dresses around all in one place. Enjoy!
Keep scrolling to explore the best casual dresses for summer 2024.
SHOP THE BEST HIGH-STREET CASUAL DRESSES:
So simple, yet so elegant.
I love the button-down look.
The easiest mini.
Everything about this dress is so good.
Other Stories is the high street master of the puff-sleeve dress.
Tank dress are as popular as ever.
A tube dress is so easy to throw on and go!
The skater style skirt on this dress is so pretty—a cute late summer evening garden party fave.
I own this dress in the pale blue and absolutely love it, especially on hot days.
SHOP THE BEST MID-RANGE CASUAL DRESSES:
Reformation is always my go-to for chic linen dresses.
You can never go wrong with a classic black midi.
A great strapless option with brilliant ruching detail.
Perfect for the office, weekend or date night.
This Balia silhouette is selling out fast.
We all need a cute denim mini dress in our wardrobes.
Such a flattering fit.
SHOP THE BEST DESIGNER CASUAL DRESSES:
I can't resist DÔEN's breezy, vintage-inspired dresses.
Strapless dresses are very much in style this season.
This colour! I love.
Linen is perfect for summer, and this open-back midi is ideal for any events you have coming up.
I just love this pretty dove grey.
I will always stand by the classic appeal of a shirt dress.
I'll be wearing this dress with some black Mary Jane flats and and basket bag.
This piece was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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