If there’s one thing we do well in Australia, it’s taking advantage of the warmer weather when summer rolls around. And as you’ll often find us heading straight to the beach or a bar after leaving the office, when we find a couple of summer dresses that really work, they can quickly become a bit of a wash, wear, repeat situation.
But nailing your summer wardrobe doesn’t need to be complicated. If you have mastered your 15-piece wardrobe and are trying to keep things simple, all you’ll need to do is add a few styling tricks, plus a couple of investment accessories, to take your casual summer dresses to the next level, and make your whole outfit a little more luxe.
We’ve rounded up some of the key summer dress trends for this year, and there’s sure to be a style that work for you.
Keep scrolling to discover the latest summer dress trends and the accessories to pair them with, and to shop similar styles.
Style notes: Mules are a simpler option to pair with your floaty floral maxi dress, and don't forget the mini top handle bag.
Similar style: Rue Stiic Hadley Maxi Dress ($279).
Style notes: Slip on a white T-shirt underneath a floral dress, and cinch the waist with a woven leather belt.
Similar styles: Karen Millen Yellow Floral A-Line Dress ($345); ASOS Waist Belt ($14).
Style notes: You can't go wrong with a bright, embroidered dress and you the addition of coloured sunglasses brings extra drama.
Similar style: Figue Minette Embroidered Cotton-Voile Midi Dress ($1212).
Related: The 7 Sandal Styles Redefining Our Look This Spring
Style notes: Invest in a quality black slip to dress up and down for everything from summer weddings to Sunday drinks.
Similar style: Paris Georgia Basics Emma Slip Dress ($320).
Style notes: Opt for a play on patchwork prints with delicate satin and style with hoop earrings for date night.
Similar styles: Acne Studios Dilona Printed Satin Midi Dress ($1050); ASOS Gold-Plated Hoop Earrings ($12).
Style notes: Layer a button-down shirt underneath a low-cut style and play around with the cuffs, collar, and sleeves.
Similar style: Ellery Magik Dress ($1750).
Related: We're Taking Sara Donaldson's Lead and Wearing This Trend 7 Days a Week
Style notes: Investing in quality leather sandals and a pretty woven basket bag to pair with feminine ruffles is a must.
Similar styles: Sea Cold-Shoulder Ruffle Poplin Mini Dress ($607); Sportsgirl Large Circle Woven Bag ($60).
Style notes: Wear a delicate floral dress with leather loafers for a more casual look in the office.
Similar styles: Zimmermann Painted Heart Tier Dress ($1250); Gucci Princetown Leather Slippers ($820).
Opening images: Collage Vintage and Getty Images
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