The ultimate guide to summer dresses

If you’re not sure how to wear summer dresses, you’re in the right place. On paper, it’s easy to throw on a summer dress and go. In reality, there’s a lot more to it.

How do you decide which shoes go with the length and style of your dress? If there’s a chilly breeze, how do you add layers without ruining your summer look?

In this guide, we cover all you need to know, including how to transition summer dresses into autumn and even wear them through winter.

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How to style summer dresses

How you style your go-to summer dresses will depend on a few factors. These include the general style and length of the dress, the occasion, your personal style and the weather (unfortunately).
Thankfully, a dress is one of the most versatile base layers. You can layer up, dress up or keep things casual in only a few style moves. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by choice or just don’t know where to start – here are some summer dress styling ideas to inspire you.

The casual maxi

For carefree days when the weather is blisteringly hot, try out a floaty maxi dress with soft leather sandals. Accessorise with a crossbody straw bag, a pretty sun hat and your favourite sunglasses.

A summer-wedding midi or maxi

This is a look of effortless sophistication and it begins with a midi or maxi dress in bright colours, pastels or bold prints. Pair with strappy stilettos and an oversized clutch bag.

An office midi

Pair a pretty midi dress with a linen blazer and crisp white trainers for a laidback look that’s comfortable enough for the commute as well as a relaxed smart-casual office. For a more conservative workwear look, opt for a loafer instead.

Going out-out mini

Early 2000s fashion is back in a big way. An embellished or sparkly mini dress is a stylish alternative to the strappy summer dress. Pair with slip-on kitten heels for a fun Y2K party look

The summer cover-up

Be prepared for whatever the British weather has to offer with a stylish yet practical shirt dress. An oversized linen shirt dress is a great option to keep cool when heading to the beach or pool. Or choose a tiered shirt dress for a year-round wardrobe staple.

What shoes can you wear with summer dresses?

Summer dresses open up a wide range of shoe options. But which ones are perfect for the look you’re trying to achieve? Here are some ideas to get you inspired:

Sliders

Perfect to slip on for a brunch date or to head to the beach, sliders offer a no-fuss style with the bonus of keeping your feet cool on a hot summer's day. Pair any summer dress with a pair of supple leather sliders for an effortlessly stylish look.

Sandals

With so many styles to choose from, sandals are always a good choice for the season. Opt for strappy flats to complement a pretty sundress, or go bold with a pair of chunky sandals with buckle detailing.

Heels

For a timeless and elegant seasonal outfit, go for a classic combo of a printed summer dress and a bright pair of ankle-strap heels. Or, add a pair of slingback kitten heels for a very on-trend look.

Trainers

For a pared-back look, simple trainers are a casual and comfy option for most dress styles. Or, for something bolder, wear a pair of flatform trainers with a floral maxi.

Ballet Pumps

A fabulous closed-toe but lightweight option for summer, a pair of delicate ballet pumps won’t drag down your outfit and look pretty poking out from beneath a maxi dress. Opt for a pair in a sherbet shade for an ultra-feminine summer look.

What to wear over summer dresses

Outwit the unpredictable weather by adding an extra layer to your summer outfit. Not sure where to start? If the weather or occasion calls for an additional layer, try pairing all those must-have summer dresses with one of these seasonal outerwear items:

Denim jackets

Try a classic blue denim jacket or opt for a summery white or neutral-tone design. Worn-black tones can also look great in the summer and will work hard for your wardrobe well into autumn and winter. Don’t be afraid to try cropped designs too, which can work particularly well with maxi dresses.

A black blazer or smart oversized shirt

A classic black blazer can give your favourite summer dresses a really chic feel. For a slightly more casual but equally chic daywear look, opt for a smart oversized shirt worn open with the sleeves slightly rolled or turned up.

A soft leather jacket

If the weather is on the cooler side or you’re heading out for the evening, a leather jacket can provide both warmth and style. Toughen up a floaty floral dress by throwing a leather jacket over the top for an effortlessly cool look.

Lightweight cardigans

For those undecided weather days, a light cardigan slung over a strappy summer dress can help keep the chill at bay. Try a cute cropped cardigan or one you can wrap yourself up in for nights outside.

Cropped jumpers

In the UK, even the height of summer can take a wintry turn. Layer a soft cropped sweater over a maxi dress and pair with chunky boots for a summer and weather-friendly outfit. Try a jumper with an open-knit design to keep that summery look and feel.

How to wear summer dresses in autumn and winter

Not sure how to make summer dresses work for autumn and winter? With these simple sartorial tips, you can tweak your wardrobe and extend the life of your summer dresses beyond the season.

Be prepared with light-to-medium layers

Blazers and trench coats thrown over your dress keep the chilly autumn breeze at bay. For a more wintry scene, add a long sleeve base layer beneath your sleeveless summer dress before putting more layers on top.

Add a classic chunky knit or sweater vest

The lighter fabrics of summer dresses can look great peeping out from below a chunky knit or slouchy cardigan. Embrace the sweater vest trend, too, to give your summer dresses a preppy, autumn and winter-friendly look.

Just add tights

The transparent look works well when it comes to transitioning from the bare-leg aesthetic of summer. Opaque tights work just as well for chillier days.

Accessorise with stylish hats

Autumn-friendly designs include soft, slim wool beanies. But at the first sign of cold, switch to a felt hat or shapely wool cap.

Mix bright summer tones with muted shades

Tone down your vibrant dresses by accessorising in blacks, camels, greys and taupes. Soft wool or teddy coats in these colours are perfect for throwing over summer dresses.

Build up your winter woollies

As the season slowly changes, add chunky-knit scarves or slim leather gloves to bring a cold-weather aesthetic to your summer dress.

Upgrade your footwear

Colder weather calls for heavy-duty footwear. Add a trusted pair of chunky ankle boots for an effortlessly chic look with just about any summer dress length, or opt for a fun pair of cowboy boots for a look that’s a little more en vogue.

Find your summer dress style

Whether you opt for mini or maxi, floaty or fitted, the perfect summer dress for you will be the one that gives you ‘main character energy’. How you style it will be down to the occasion and your own personal preferences.

Whatever aesthetic you go for, remember that the most important thing about styling a summer outfit is to have fun and get creative. That way, you’re bound to discover a whole host of new looks that take you through every season.