Babba wears an organza mini dress from Aje.
Dress season is upon us. With the incoming high temperatures dresses are set to carry the weight of our outfits for the coming months. There's nothing more freeing than stepping out in nothing but a cotton midi, flats and a basket bag, especially when the sun is shining overhead. And finally, the time has arrived.
Not to mention, the wedding dates pinned to the fridge are creeping closer and closer, and it makes sense to at least start planning which dresses will carry us through the warmer months. Whether you're most looking forward to far-flung nuptials, that upcoming beach getaway or a picnic in the park, you'll need the appropriate frock. And I know just where you should go to find it.
As much as we love the high street, there are certain pieces that are worth investing in a little more. And in my eyes, a special dress meets this criteria. The right dress can make you feel your absolute best like a pair of jeans or a pretty blouse just never will—there's something so satisfying about slipping into a single item and knowing that's your outfit 99% complete. Especially when it's a beautifully-made, perfect-fitting item, and sometimes these qualities come with a higher price tag.
Not every designer find is worth the expense, but with the right labels, splashing out means you'll wind up with something you'll cherish for a long time. Below, I've rounded up eight dress brands that I think, budget allowing, are deserving of your hard-earned money and will most certainly be show-stopping pieces in your wardrobe for years to come.
THE BEST DRESS BRANDS, ACCORDING TO FASHION EDITORS
1. BEST FOR WEDDINGS: RIXO
Style Notes: There's a reason so many influencers flock to Rixo come wedding season. The London label's designs are bold without being scene-stealing, ensuring the attention remains fully on the bride. That being said, you can expect a fair few compliments when you rock up in a Rixo number...
SHOP THE BRAND:
This is a new style for the brand; one which I think will fly.
This one has a vintage nightgown feel to it.
Is there anything more summer inducing than this hibiscus print?
2. BEST FOR EVERYDAY: GANNI
Style Notes: Ganni is quintessentially Scandinavian, blending confident design with splashes of fun. The result is a colourful yet wearable selection of seersucker, silk and structured cotton dresses that can be styled for all manner of occasions (including the weekly shop).
SHOP THE BRAND:
This is going to be everywhere this summer, I know it.
A fun, flirty option for warm, sunny days.
Pretty gingham always comes back in the warmer months.
3. BEST FOR BLACK TIE: AJE
Style Notes: If you're lucky enough to have been invited to a black tie event, you'll be sure to make an entrance in an Aje dress. Based in sunny Australia, the brand's bold designs promise a good time. Who could stay in a bad mood while enveloped in bright pink ruffles?
SHOP THE BRAND:
So elegant—just add gold jewellery.
Treasured designs with a contemporary edge.
Aje does modern cutouts better than anyone.
4. BEST FOR SUMMER IN THE CITY: REFORMATION
Style Notes: Spending any amount of time on Reformation's website is dangerous, because your chances of spotting something you *need* are alarmingly high. The LA label has more than just its sustainable credentials to brag about—it's also one of the more inclusive dress brands around, creating flattering designs in UK sizes 4-28.
SHOP THE BRAND:
A brand-new silhouette for 2024.
A simple style you can dress up or down.
The brand's prints are always on the money.
5. BEST FOR A DINNER DATE: GHOST
Style Notes: Personally, I consider Ghost very reasonable—especially for the quality you're getting. But if you're used to shopping high street, let me assure you these gorgeous satin dresses are worth upping your budget ever so slightly.
SHOP THE BRAND:
Midnight blue is oh-so classy.
I know a lot of minimalists will have their eye on this for summer occasions.
If I didn't know this was Ghost, I'd think it had a much higher price tag.
6. BEST FOR BREEZY SILHOUETTES: DÔEN
Style Notes: It's only March, but Dôen's easy, breezy dresses have me dreaming of summers abroad and on home soil. The free-spirited silhouettes feature bohemian prints, artful embroidery and cottagecore colour palettes, and yes, they're as beautiful as they sound.
SHOP THE BRAND:
The intricate details on this dress make it worth every penny.
Such a pretty print.
Pretty, dainty and delicate.
7. BEST FOR AN AFFORDABLE OPTION: NOBODY'S CHILD
Style Notes: Whilst I firmly believe that a great dress is something worth spending a little more on, everyone's budget is different. If you're looking for a special piece that comes in at an affordable brand. Nobody's Child is renowned for expensive-looking dresses.
SHOP THE BRAND:
From the print to the design, this could easily pass for designer.
Perfect feels appropriate.
This is a staple dress shape for the brand.
8. BEST FOR FEELING ROMANTIC: ZIMMERMANN
Style Notes: Minimalists, look away— Zimmermann celebrates all things pink, frilly and floral, so if you have an affinity for feminine style, you've met your match. Keep your romantic frock as the focus and pair it with simple accessories.
SHOP THE BRAND:
When you want to go all-out, reach for this frilly number.
No one does florals like Zimmermann.
You're looking at the cutest little white dress on the market.
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