White dresses are my absolute favourite thing to wear at any time of the year, but in summer, they feel even more special. There's just something so crisp, classy, and elegant about a white dress that makes it incredibly appealing. While it, understandably, is a no-go for weddings, this is perhaps the reason why I choose to wear them so frequently otherwise, skirting my jeans and linen trousers in favour of their polish. And it looks like I'm not the only one doing so.
This week alone, I have seen countless white dress outfits crop up on my social media feeds. This is unsurprising given the recent spike in temperatures we've been experiencing, but it has served as a reminder of just how versatile a white dress can be. Below, I've charted some of my favourite white dress outfits of the summer so far, shopping out all the components you might need to re-create them as you go. That said, the beauty of a white dress lies in its simplicity, so the styling of said white dresses tends to be minimal too. Because of this, I would feel comfortable wagering that you already own many of the pieces you need to emulate these white dress outfits.
Scroll on to see 13 (yes, 13!) ways to wear a white dress this season, knowing you're going to look chic in the process.
13 White Dress Outfits That Are the Epitome of Elegance
1. Strappy Dress + Chunky Slides
Style Notes: Nothing says "I'm chic" quite like a white dress with a jumper knotted around the shoulders.
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I've been loving broderie dresses this season.
These will also go just as well with jeans.
We're big fans of Dragon Diffusion at Who What Wear UK.
These look like so many designer options on the market.
Throw this over your shoulders when it gets chilly.
2. Puff-Sleeve Dress + Mary Janes
Style Notes: Tick off two very pretty trends in one with a puff-sleeve white dress worn with black mary jane shoes.
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This will be your go-to summer event dress.
French girl approved.
So sleek.
These could easily pass as designer.
The finishing touch.
3. Linen Mini Dress + Leather Flats
Style Notes: If minis are more your thing, give them an effortless quality by wearing your white style with simple ballet flats and your favourite carry-all tote.
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The subtle cup-detailing really sets this mini apart.
Simple, chic and easy to style.
This went straight into my basket.
Use this in your hair or clip onto the strap of your bag.
4. Victorian Dress + Printed Tote
Style Notes: I'm a sucker for a high neckline, and this Victorian-inspired white dress needs little else to look chic. The printed tote, however, adds an unexpected but highly stylish touch.
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Such a romantic silhouette.
Roomy enough for your everyday essentials.
Mix and match these with the other rings in your collection.
5. Slip Dress + Slides
Style Notes: The perfect white dress for both formal and casual occasions, make a satin slip work for day with a pair of slider sandals. The black bag and shoes make for a cool contrast against the white.
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No one does a slip dress like Ghost.
My dream summer shoe.
Doesn't this look so expensive?
I've had my eyes on these for awhile.
6. Long-Sleeve Dress + Basket Bag
Style Notes: You don't need to go short sleeve for summer—longer styles look supremely elegant (especially coupled with maxi hemlines). Just add a basket bag.
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Perfect for on or off the beach.
Wear on its own or layer with other statement necklaces.
Chocolate brown suede? Yes, please!
This is a bestseller for good reason.
7. Off-Shoulder Dress + Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: For an easy evening look, create an outfit of all-white but introduce interesting details, such as an off-the-shoulder neckline or a beaded bag.
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When it comes to summer dresses, Doen never lets me down.
So elegant.
I can't believe this is from the high street.
A statement ring you won't regret investing in.
8. Cotton Dress + Flip-Flops
Style Notes: White cotton dresses with vest-like straps, square bodices and full skirts are proving especially popular this season, particularly when they're styled with '90s-esque accessories.
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I've spotted so many influencers in this dress.
The chunky sole will ensure all-day comfort.
How chic is this?
Metal-frame sunglasses are my new obsession.
9. Bandeau Dress + Neck Scarf
Style Notes: The only thing that can make a strapless, full-skirted white dress look even classier is the addition of a lightweight scarf worn loosely around the neck.
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Drop-waist silhouettes are so flattering.
Polka dots are having a moment.
An elegant take on the classic flip-flops.
These will elevate any outfit.
10. Short-Sleeve Dress + Trainers
Style Notes: White dresses don't need to be worn with heels and sandals all the time—this look proves they look just as sleek styled with trainers.
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I'd wear this in and out of the office.
I own these and they're so comfortable.
Just dreamy.
11. Babydoll Dress + Flip-Flops
Style Notes: Babydoll dresses are back in a big way this summer. Wear with simple, no-fuss accessories to ensure they look cool, not cutesy.
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How sweet is this?
Everyone will think these are a luxury buy.
Throw in everything and go.
12. Halter Dress + Statement Jewellery
Style Notes: If glamour is white you seek, you really can't go wrong with a white draped dress, gold jewellery and metallic sandals.
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So elegant.
You'll reach for these no matter the season.
A pair of earrings can take your outfit from simple to elevated.
Such a unique shape.
13. Tank Dress + Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: White dresses are a core holiday staple. I'll be taking cues from Renia Jaz and wearing mine with a shell necklace and strappy sandals when I jet off next.
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This also comes in blue, powder pink and plum.
All of our editors love A.Emery sandals.
So pretty.
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