There’s no doubt about it—the summer months are my favourite time of year. The long evenings, the warm days, the endless blue skies—each aspect feels energising. And beyond the mood-boosting benefits, summer also brings the easiest dressing equation of all: one great dress + a pair of sandals = a chic silhouette without a moment's thought.
As someone who swears by effortless, throw-on dresses, I dedicate a little time each spring to scouting the best new-in styles. I compare fabrics, fits and price points, searching for the silhouettes that feel both timeless and fresh. This year, however, my usual hunt was cut short—I stumbled upon the perfect summer dress just weeks into the new season.
Crafted from a heavyweight linen-blend fabric, COS's A-Line Maxi Dress (£115) made an immediate impression. The deep chocolate brown shade is an ideal transitional hue—it pairs naturally with the rich, moody tones lingering from my winter wardrobe while also offering a striking contrast to the soft peach and pink shades I’m leaning into for the warmer months.
Designed with a generous A-line cut, the dress has a voluminous yet graceful silhouette that skims the body elegantly, allowing for plenty of movement and breathability without feeling bulky. Subtle pockets add a practical touch, and the true maxi length—just shy of my ankles at 5’7"—gives it an elongated effect.
Easy, chic and pleasantly versatile, I'll be wearing this with strappy sandals for relaxed weekend days, and dressing it up with a slouchy clutch and heels for evening plans.
While I love this in the chocolate brown hue, I've also spotted a pretty apricot style hit the shelves that's well worth a look in if you're trying to weave more colour into your spring rotation. Priced at £115, this isn't the cheapest style on the high street, but honestly, after feeling the fabrication and trying it on, I would have guessed it was far more expensive than it actually is. A versatile staple that makes this case via a cost-per-wear angle; this is the kind of dress that you can turn to season after season.
If you're on the hunt for a chic summer dress, read on to shop COS's A-line maxi, plus my edit of other excellent linen dresses on the market.
SHOP COS'S A-LINE LINEN-BLEND MAXI DRESS:
The chocolate brown colour trend isn't showing any signs of slowing down.
This pretty apricot shade is so easy to slip into a spring capsule wardrobe.
SHOP MORE LINEN DRESSES:
This pretty sky blue shade is having a major moment right now.
This easy shift dress comes in UK sizes 6—24.
You'll get so much wear out of this puff-sleeve style.
I'm banking this ahead of wedding season.
I can see this selling out fast.
This also comes in five other shades.
I always come back to Faithfull for their pretty summer dresses
The scallop detailing entirely elevates the energy of this pretty dress.
No brand does linen quite like Free People.
Style this with stappy sandals or dress it up with a kitten heel.
I'm so obsessed with the beautiful colour palette on this pretty linen dress.
-
I'm a Shopping Editor—These 5 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Finds Are Living Rent-Free in My HeadKitten heels, burgundy flats, and more.
-
Ankle Boots With Dresses Are Out—This Is the Shoe Trend Those With Cool Style Are Wearing InsteadAlexa Chung is one of them.
-
I Swear By Elegant Outfits—35 Standout Items That Would Fit Right Into My ClosetHere's to a chicer outfit rotation.
-
Too Hot to Think? Try These 33 Chic Summer Finds From Revolve That Basically Style ThemselvesMatching sets and lovely lace styles.
-
My Love Language Is Summer Linens and Cottons—J.Crew and Anthropologie Speak It FluentlyHeat-wave approved.
-
Linens, Trousers, and Button-Downs, Oh My! These 30 Banana Republic Sale Picks Are Summer MagicUp to 60% off.
-
This Anti-Trend Item Makes Every Summer Outfit a SuccessWrinkly clothes have never been cooler.
-
These 30 Simple Yet Elevated Picks From the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Are Giving Major Rich VibesHello, instant confidence boost.
