If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, WWD may receive an affiliate commission.
Summer dressing should be easy. You should spend your time planning outdoor activities and enjoying the warm weather, not fussing over an unduly complicated outfit. The best summer dresses are an easy solution that will take the guesswork out of getting dressed when the heat is scorching.
When you’re picking out your ideal summer dress, there are a few things you’ll want to consider. First and foremost, material. Natural lightweight fabrics are best for the warmer weather,” explains Nikki Campbell and Sophie Coote, founders of Australian label Sir. “Particularly linen and cotton or our lightweight Aya knit, which is perfect for layering with swim, the sheer open weave is perfect for summer.”
Another factor worth considering is a dresses’ versatility. If ease is your goal, you’ll want to invest in a style that can easily be worn for a daytime beach visit, or a fancier occasion, simply depending on how you style it. “We always have in mind the versatility of a piece so that the dress alone can work both ways,” says Monica Paolini, the designer of Sea New York. “The right jewelry and shoe pairing can help shift the look into day or night.”
As temperatures rise, take stock of your current collection of summer dresses, and consider which of the season’s upcoming trends are worth mixing in with more standard silhouettes.
Read on to shop the best summer dresses that you won’t be able to stop wearing.
Top Summer Dresses of 2023
- Best Slip Dress: Sir Aries Cut Out Dress
- Best ‘90s-Inspired Dress: Reformation Bryn Dress
- Danielle Guizio Lace Flutter Mini Dress
- Best Mesh Dress: Paloma Wool Sora Asymmetric Two Piece Dress
- Best Activewear Dress: Splits59 Airweight Dress
- Best Smocked Dress: Cos Shirred Midi Dress
- Best Casual Dress: Free People Taking Sides Maxi Dress
- Best Vacation Dress: Ronny Kobo Corzo Dress
- Best Plus-Size Dress: Good American Compression Shine Tube Dress
- Best Denim Dress: Mother The Batwing Cinch Dress Waist
- Wayf Lilibet Halter Mini Dress
- Best Crochet Dress: Tocci Scalloped Square-Neck Crochet Mini Dress
- Best White Dress: Marcella Ashley Dress
- Best Black Dress: Aya Muse Hyd Viscose Jersey Mini Dress
- Best Jersey Slip Dress: Khaite Francine Dress
- Best Cotton Dress: Sea Renee Strawberry Dress
- Best Versatile Summer Dress: Aje Mika Asymmetric Linen Blend Halter Dress
- Best Strapless Dress: Likely Driggs Dress
- Best Boho Dress: Prettygarden Boho Dress
- Best Affordable Dress: The Drop Tent Dress
- Best Dress on Amazon: Relipop Summer Dress
- Best Long-Sleeve Dress: Exlura Dress
- Best Affordable Lace Dress: Astr the Label Midi Dress
- Best Mini Dress: Miu Miu Smocked Dress
- Best Sheer Dress: Louisa Ballou Black Heatwave Dress
Sign up for WWD’S Shop newsletter to get the scoop on the best in beauty and style with in-depth reviews of exciting new releases and buyer’s guides to find the products you need to try ASAP.
Sir Aries Cut Out Dress
Best Slip Dress for Summer
- Sizes: 0 to 4
- Material: Silk
- Color: Chocolate, Ivory, Navy, Peach
- Celebrity fans of the brand: Vanessa Hudgens, Kendall Jenner, Margot Robbie, Kaia Geber, and more
- Best for: Casual cocktail parties
- Retailer availability: Sir, Mytheresa, Saks Fifth Avenue
Sir, the Bondi-based brand lives up to its sun-soaked roots through its relaxed silhouettes that exude effortless chic style. This silk design is the perfect example with its delicate floral lace cut-out detail and open back. It comes in many neutral hues and this peach tone which is ideal for warm summer sunsets. Pair this dress with your favorite slip-on kitten heels and hit the town.
Reformation Bryn Dress
Best ‘90s-Inspired Summer Dress
- Sizes: 0 to 10
- Material: Silk
- Color: Aliso, artichoke
- Celebrity fans of the brand: Kaia Gerber, Camila Morrone, Hailey Bieber, Brie Larson, Addison Rae, Blake Lively, and more
- Best for: A first date
- Retailer availability: Reformation
‘90s-inspired styles have come back in a major way, but you don’t want your look to be too nostalgic or retro. This cowl-neck dress toes that fine line perfectly. The midi length is ideal for dressy occasions. Plus, the silk a-line silhouette will comfortably hug you all night long.
Danielle Guizio Lace Flutter Mini Dress
- Sizes: XXS to XXL
- Material: Polyester
- Color: Woodrose
- Celebrity fans of the brand: Madison Beer, Gigi Hadid, Megan Fox, Olivia Wilde, Kendall Jenner, and more
- Best for: A guest attending a summer bridal shower
- Retailer availability: Danielle Guizio
Danielle Guizio is a New York-based designer who founded her namesake womenswear label in 2014 with the goal of empowering the wearer and celebrating the female form. Her new Lace Flutter Mini Dress evokes a sense of unabashed femininity and features purposeful details such as delicate lace trim across the neckline and hem, sweet flutter sleeves, and an alluring open back. Since the dress runs short, style it with kitten heels or flat sandals for a day of celebration.
Paloma Wool Sora Asymmetric Two Piece Dress
- Sizes: XS to L
- Material: 70% organic cotton, 30% nylon with 92% viscose, 8% elastane
- Color: Orange/Black, Brown/Light Grey
- Celebrity fans of the brand: Emily Ratajakowski, Bella Hadid, Dua Lipa, Kristen Bell, and more
- Best for: A minimalist dresser
- Retailer availability: Nordstrom
While a sheer dress surely doesn’t fit all occasions, summer is the time to try experimenting with something see-through. This delicate dress from the independent label Paloma Wool is a safe and effortless way to do so. It features a sheer delicate knit with a contrasting underlayer, thin straps, and an asymmetrical hem. Keep your accessories light to let the style shine.
Splits59 Airweight Dress
- Sizes: XS to XL
- Material: 81% nylon/19% spandex
- Color: Black, Arugula, White
- Celebrity fans of the brand: Miranda Kerr, Taylor Swift, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and more
- Best for: An active girlie
- Retailer availability: Splits59, Zappos, Saks Fifth Avenue, Shopbop, Bloomingdales
Whether you’re workout outside or lounging in the park, Splits59’s Airweight Dress is for you. It features an ultra-lightweight fabric that’s moisture-wicking and is made to move with you — not against you. The built-in shorts offer subtle sculpting and keep the dress from riding up. It comes in three different colors, so you can get away with owning more than one (and trust us, you’ll probably want to).
Cos Shirred Midi Dress
Best Smocked Summer Dress
- Sizes: S to L
- Material: Cotton
- Color: Black
- Celebrity fans of the brand: Jodie Turner-Smith, Priyanka Chopra, Michelle Doherty, and more
- Best for: The summer city dweller
- Retailer availability: Cos
Still planning to head to your favorite cosmopolitan city this summer? Then you’ll want to pack this light, floaty dress from Cos along with you. The shirred elastic upper will keep you comfortable with a forgiving stretch, while the full skirt lends extra volume for some added oomph. As a bonus, the dress also has tie straps, so you can adjust them to your liking.
Khaite Francine Dress
Best Jersey Slip Summer Dress
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Material: Viscose
- Color: Cream
- Celebrity fans of the brand: Kaia Gerber, Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner, Katie Homes, Blake Lively, Sofia Richie, Shay Mitchell, and more
- Best for: Dressed up daytime activities
- Retailer availability: Mytheresa
Sometimes, simple is best. This sleek dress from NYC label Khaite sticks to the basics and does it well. The minimalist dress with a low-cut neckline and maxi length is ideal for those who prefer to keep things easy, even when dressing up. Try this throw-on-and-go dress for brunch with friends or even a summer cocktail party. The swooping back and thin straps will show off your shoulders.
Sea Renee Strawberry Dress
Best Cotton Summer Dress
- Sizes: XXS to XL
- Material: Cotton
- Color: Multi
- Celebrity fans of the brand: Mandy Moore, Rachel Bilson, Jessica Simpson, Julian Hough, and more.
- Best for: Summer picnics
- Retailer availability: Shopbop, Sea, Net-A-Porter
There’s no material like lightweight cotton for keeping you cool during summer. This playful, printed dress from Sea is the ideal piece for keeping you refreshed when you still want to dress up a bit. The strawberry motif can easily be worn with dainty accessories, or you can style it with a chunky boot for a less dressy look come fall. The midi length means you’ll be able to style it in a range of ways.
Aje Mika Asymmetric Linen Blend Halter Dress
Best Versatile Summer Dress
- Sizes: 0 to 4
- Material: Linen
- Color: Ivory
- Celebrity fans of the brand: Eva Mendes, Kelly Clarkson, Camila Cabello, and more
- Best for: Outdoor summer soirees
- Retailer availability: Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, Moda Operandi
On the hunt for a dress that’s both beachy and dressy at the same time? This elegant linen halter dress from Aje has a laid-back vacation feel but is nice enough to wear out to a cocktail party. It features an artfully draped, asymmetric silhouette with a unique cut-out at the leg. The maxi length offers a bit more coverage and plays nicely with flat sandals or heels.
Free People Taking Sides Maxi Dress
Best Casual Summer Dress
- Sizes: XS to XL
- Material: Cotton
- Color: Lively Ivy, Splash, Buttered Up, Cashmere, and five other colors
- Celebrity fans of the brand: Selena Gomez, Olivia Wilde, Kaia Gerber, Camila Cabello, Kelly Clarkson, Taylor Swift, and more
- Best for: Weekend brunch with friends
- Retailer availability: Free People
A billowy, tiered maxi dress is an easy throw-on-and-go piece when you know you’ll be out and about all day. This laidback silhouette from Free People is a no-brainer. Made of cotton, its light weave is breathable for the hottest summer days. The smocked detailing at the bodice and open tie-back are worth showing off. Finish with just minimal sandals and a slouchy shoulder bag, and you’re ready to tackle your to-do list.
What reviewers say: “It’s hard for me to find maxi dresses that suit me as a 5’1 girl but w o w this dress is a dream! Doesn’t swallow me up and is sooooo flattering.”
Ronny Kobo Corzo Dress
Best Summer Vacation Dress
- Sizes: XS to L
- Material: 100% polyester
- Color: Rainbow Multi
- Celebrity fans of the brand: Gwen Stefani, Shay Mitchell, Kate Upton, Katy Pertty, Paris Hilton, and more
- Best for: A night out in Miami
- Retailer availability: Revolve, Saks Fifth Avenue
The cutout dress trend has been on the rise over the last few seasons, and don’t expect its popularity to slow down this summer. Ronny Kobo’s take features a multi-colored stripe print and slick one-shoulder silhouette that feel more sophisticated than past takes. The velvet-like material is light and soft to the touch, meaning you’ll stay comfortable. The dress also hits just above the ankles, meaning it was meant to be worn with a pair of statement shoes.
Good American Compression Shine Tube Dress
Best Plus-Size Summer Dress
- Sizes: XS to 3XL
- Material: 90% Nylon, 10% Elastane
- Colors: Fuchsia Pink, Black
- Celebrity fans of the brand: Sophie Turner, Gwen Stefani, Vanessa Hudgens, Jennifer Lopez, Jessica Simpson, and more
- Best for: Girls’ night out
- Retailer availability: Good American, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Shopbop
Tube dresses are back in the zeitgeist and looking chicer than ever. This playful tube dress is from Khloe Kardashian’s label Good American is the perfect example. It features a high-shine compression fabric that smooths and sculpts your body, hugging your curves in all the right places. Although it has a simple design, it’s the ideal base with which to build your outfit around. You can opt for an all-neutral monochrome look or add in splashes of color via a bright top handle bag or a bold statement earring.
What reviewers say: “Love this dress! Love the color! Makes me feel sexy!”
Mother The Batwing Cinch Waist Dress
Best Summer Denim Dress
- Sizes: XS to 3XL
- Material: 98% Cotton, 2% Elastane
- Colors: Beer Me
- Celebrity fans of the brand: Lady Gaga, Jenna Ortega, Addison Rae, Olivia Wilde, Bella Thorne and more
- Best for: Weekend shopping
- Retailer availability: Mother, Neiman Marcus, Anthropologie
Los Angeles-based label Mother is beloved for its easy denim silhouettes, and the Batwing Cinch Dress dress is a summer style that speaks to that. The front has intricate seamed details, silver snaps, and a belted high waist to show off your figure. The batwing sleeves are loose, so you won’t overheat or feel restricted. Style the look with a pair of loafers or sneakers and stud earrings to finish off the look.
Wayf Lilibet Halter Mini Dress
- Sizes: XS to XL
- Material: 97% polyester, 3% spandex
- Colors: Ivory
- Best for: A white beach party
- Retailer availability: Shopbop, Nordstrom
This white halter minidress is a summer party staple. Wayf’s neutral iteration is just the look for your warm evenings out. The white rose applique is eye-catching without being over the top. It’s made from a satin-like fabric that skims the body to flatter your figure while allowing for comfort. And the adjustable necktie allows for versatility in terms of fit. Style it with pearl earrings and silver stilettos for a night of dancing.
Toccin Scalloped Square-Neck Crochet Midi Dress
- Sizes: XS to XL
- Material: Polyester
- Colors: Beige
- Best for: Beach-to-bar days
- Retailer availability: Bergdorf Goodman
Everywhere we look, fashion houses and designers are reinventing the nostalgic crochet dress with silhouettes that range from long maxi dresses to mini dresses. Toccin is one label that has taken a sophisticated approach to the trend. Its beige dress has a light, summery feel, but the scalloped and mini dress lining gives it an instant boost over other summer styles. This piece will work just as well with a pair of stilettos for date night as it will with flip-flops at the beach.
Marcella Ashley Dress
Best White Summer Dress
- Sizes: XS to XXXL
- Material: 60% Viscose ,30% Polyamide, 10% Lycra
- Color: White, Black
- Best for: Layering under a blazer
- Special notes: Designed in NYC. Handcrafted in Europe.
- Retailer availability: Marcella
Summer is all about keeping things simple. Sometimes, that means the recipe calls for nothing more than a great white dress. Marcella’s A-line style with a wide, rounded neckline and an added slit in the back for easy all-day movements. It’s made of European Pointe, a structured but breathable fabric that is wrinkle-resistant and great for traveling.
What reviewers say: “I love the dress. It is made of a thick fabric and it is easy to style. It is true to size. My measurements are bust: 33.5″, waist: 25″, and hips: 36″ with a height of 5’2″. I ordered a XS. As mentioned by another reviewer, the underarms are snug.”
Aya Muse Viscose Jersey Mini Dress
- Sizes: XXS to XL
- Material: Viscose
- Color: Black
- Celebrity fans of the brand: Lily James, Elsa Hosk, Dua Lipa, Sophie Turner, Emily Ratajakowski, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and more
- Best for: Clubbing
- Retailer availability: Luisaviaroma, Ssense
Los Angles label Aya Muse has become a fashion girl favorite for its sexy, sophisticated designs. This may look like a sleek black dress with a plunging cowl neck, but the open back adds a touch of intrigue. The knit viscose blend material is soft, but still lends structure that creates an elegant line when wearing the dress. Match the tiered chain link belt with minimalist silver jewelry, and you’ll feel instantly confident in this look.
Likely Driggs Dress
Best Strapless Summer Dress
- Sizes: 00 to 14
- Material: Polyester and rayon
- Colors: White, scarlet, sachet pink, deep orchid, ruby, black, navy
- Best for: A bachelorette weekend
- Retailer availability: Amazon
If you’re on the hunt for a great strapless party dress, try this ruffled option from Likely. Since the dress is form-fitting, many reviewers suggested sizing up, so you may want to keep that in mind when ordering. But the stretchy fabric and form-fitting silhouette will hug your curves and will look great in photographs. The ruffle over the bust adds a playful touch.
What reviewers say: “Great dress! Color and style are true to the photos, and fit were as expected based on other reviews. Fabric is form-fitting but has a nice stretch to it for a flattering fit. Fabric is on the thicker side, but very comfortable to wear all day. If you’re in between sizes, I would size up just to be safe, but otherwise the fit is pretty true to size. I’m 5’8″ and this hit just below the knee.”
Prettygarden Boho Dress
Best Boho Summer Dress
- Sizes: S to XL
- Material: Polyester and spandex
- Colors: Apricot, black, black brown, blue, coffee, green, grey blue, pink, polka black, spotted red, wine red
- Best for: A coffee date
- Retailer availability: Amazon
If you’re a fan of the drapey, relaxed feel of bohemian-inspired dresses, try this affordable option from Amazon. This Prettygarden dress has amassed over 2,000 reviews, with many women calling out the compliments they received when they had it on. With a wide range of colors available, you can tailor your purchase to whatever occasion you may be shopping for.
What reviewers say: “It’s comfortable, cute and cool for summer. The only thing that could make it better would be pockets.”
The Drop Tent Dress
Best Affordable Summer Dress
- Sizes: XXS to 5X
- Material: Tencel lyocell
- Colors: Off-black, ginger, mushroom, navy
- Best for: Keeping things simple
- Retailer availability: Amazon
“I bought this dress on a whim and I love it. The material is really great quality and has a good weight to it. Every time I wear it, I get compliments,” writes one reviewer of this simple tank dress. Not only does the floaty, simple silhouette offer a relaxed option for those in need of an everyday summer dress, it also happens to have pockets — a handy staple that allows you to go purse free. The shoulder straps are adjustable as well, allowing for additional versatility in terms of fit.
What other reviewers say: “I ordered the white eyelet dress and was delighted when I saw how good the quality was. The fabric is thick, with a lining, and very well made. I am 5’ 7”, weigh 200 lbs and bought an XXL. It fits perfectly. It’s very wrinkled from packaging so I still have to figure out how best to get rid of the wrinkles. If spring/summer ever gets here I can’t wait to wear it!”
Relipop Summer Dress
Best Summer Dress on Amazon
- Sizes: S to XXL
- Material: Polyester
- Colors: Red, black, navy blue
- Best for: Surviving a heatwave
- Retailer availability: Amazon
A sweet wrap mini dress is an easy go-to during a heat spell. This dress from Relipop has over 30,000 reviews on Amazon, so you know it’s been tried and tested. Many reviewers suggest adding a button or safety pin to secure the bust if you are larger-chested and in need of any additional support. Also, the short hemline is worth noting for taller women who may find it a bit too revealing. Still, it fits true to size and purchasers find it to be flattering and cute.
What reviewers say: “I really like this dress. In fact, athletic me normally looks terrible in dresses, yet this one is about the most flattering dress I’ve ever worn. Makes me look thin and flirty.”
Exlura Dress
Best Long-Sleeve Summer Dress
- Sizes: XS to XXL
- Colors: Black, white, black floral, blue, peacock blue, pink, purple, red, wine red, yellow floral, hot pink, polka dot peacock blue, yellow, blue, polka dot light green
- Best for: Beach parties
- Retailer availability: Amazon
Sometimes, no matter the weather, you want a dress with longer sleeves. This pretty option from Exlura is romantic and floaty with ruffled long sleeves. The wrap waist helps to cinch your middle to keep the dress from appearing too baggy. The back bow detail adds an additional feminine touch ideal for girly dressers. If you’re one to dress up for daytime occasions, try this dress on for size.
What reviewers say: “I had this for months and never wore it for some reason. I finally put it in for Easter. It’s so cute. It’s thin but not see through. I’m wearing hot pink under this in the picture and you couldn’t see it at all. The sleeves are gigantic…like they are cute but VERY billowy. I’m wearing a medium and I’m 5’4- 135lbs. I think a small would’ve fit better but with the tie back you can cinch it pretty well.”
Astr the Label Midi Dress
Best Affordable Lace Dress
- Sizes: XS toL
- Material: Polyester
- Colors: Navy, periwinkle, pink mauve, white, buttercream, hunter green, vivid violet, black
- Best for: A baby shower
- Retailer availability: Amazon, Astr the Label
Perhaps this summer you have a lineup of weddings and events to attend. You’ll want to make sure you have warm-weather occasion dresses that will live up to all of your needs. This lace midi dress from Astr the Label is elegant for formal get-togethers. “This dress is wonderful quality for the price and looks much more expensive than it is,” writes one reviewer. Try one of the brighter colors if you want to embrace a bit more playfulness this season.
What other reviewers say: “Great dress for a variety of events. Wore this to a wedding and it was comfortable and stylish. A little long for short gals like me but I made it work with some higher heels.”
Miu Miu Smocked Dress
Best Mini Summer Dress
- Sizes: IT36 to 40
- Material: Cotton
- Color: Yellow
- Celebrity fans of the brand: Rita Ora, Gigi Hadid, Emily Ratajakowski, Olivia Culpo, Kerry Washington, Rihanna, and more
- Best for: A birthday in the park
- Retailer availability: Moda Operandi
Short silhouettes are on the rise this season, and no one has led the charge quite like Miu Miu. (The brand’s ultra-mini skirt has been an editorial favorite this season). This sweet yellow dress is made from cotton in a light yellow gingham. The smocked skirt clings to the body, flattering your figure without hugging too tight. The bust hangs a bit looser, allowing for breathability and comfort. So, if you’re ready to bring up the hemline, here’s your starting place.
Louisa Ballou Black Heatwave Dress
Best Sheer Summer Dress
- Sizes: XS-XL
- Materials: Polyester and elastane
- Color: Black
- Celebrity fans of the brand: Camila Mendes, Rita Ora, Florence Pugh, Dua Lipa, Olivia Rodrigo, Kendall Jenner, Kylie Jenner, and more
- Best for: A post-swim party
- Retailer availability: Ssense, Mytheresa
Dare to style a sheer dress over your favorite swimsuit this summer. Louisa Ballou is a favorite of celebrities like Kendall Jenner and Dua Lipa, and it should be yours too. The bold prints and sheer fabric make for an electric combination to test out. The adjustable drawstring allows you to play with the skirt length based on the rest of your look, too. So, if you’re looking to participate in hot girl summer, here’s the dress to help you pull it off.
Cute Summer Dress Trends for 2023
If you’re looking for the ideal summer dress to embrace, take the advice of Paolini, Campbell, and Coote and test out a few of the top trends about to take off in the months ahead.
- Artful details: At Sea, smocking and embroidery are key elements being incorporated into spring’s styles. If you’re looking for an eye-catching daytime dress, this is the look for you. Crafty designs have been a favorite for stars like Bella Hadid and Lorde, who style them with edgy accessories for a youthful twist. Since there’s so much variety in silhouette, it’s a trend that’s flattering and easy to embrace for all.
- Cutouts: “The cutout trend can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be,” say Campbell and Coote. “Look for pieces with cutouts that accentuate your best assets. Pieces with adjustability to allow you to control how open the cut out are also a great way to dip your toe in.” The cutout trend is an easy way to show some skin in a more formal setting. If you want to accentuate your waist, opt for cutouts at the sides. If your back is a favorite feature, try something that’s open across your shoulders and down your spine. And, if you’re hoping to accentuate your bust, look for something with cutouts along the neckline.
- Minidress: Shorter silhouettes may seem intimidating at first, but with appearances on major runways from Dior to Miu Miu, this leg-baring silhouette is a must try. As for styling, “for the minidress, I like a barely-there shoe such as a thin strap sandal so it’s like you’re running around barefoot,” says Paolini. Look for a style that hits mid-thigh to ensure you’ll have enough coverage. For casual events, try a cotton shift dress, for formal get-togethers, try a luxe silk slip dress.
Tips for Transitional Dressing: How to Wear Your Summer Dress in the Fall
As temperatures start to cool in September, don’t worry about putting away your favorite summer dress. In fact, many styles can easily be transitioned into cooler months. The key is styling. Loose fit summer dresses are great to wear with a chunky sweater worn over the top and a pair of boots. The addition of these fall-focused items will add warmth and texture to your look without feeling too off-kilter.
For more fitted styles, contrast the dress with an oversized blazer or chunky coat up top. As for shoes, consider swapping sandals for sneakers, which will offer a bit more coverage without getting too toasty. Lastly, for any mini silhouette, you may want to consider a few options to help offer a little more leg coverage. Over-the-knee boots or a pair of sheer black tights can help to keep you just a bit warmer without having to give up your favorite minidress until next year.
How We Selected the Best Summer Dresses
In order to curate the best summer dresses, we interviewed two fashion industry experts for product selections and style recommendations, as well as key knowledge on dress styling, popular trends for summer 2023, and various occasion functionality. We chose the best summer dresses for women that reflect current and emerging trends, fabric and material innovation, durability, convertibility, and traditional design applications. We also compared customer review quotes, employed research across the designer dress market, and considered our own product testing.
Meet the Experts
Nikki Campbell & Sophie Coote are the founders of the Australian label, Sir. They established SIR in 2014 when both were only 24. Since then, their strength of vision has catapulted the brand into international recognition for its singular, uncompromising aesthetic. Maintaining an aspirational yet inclusive appeal centered on Australian culture has been paramount to SIR’s development, values that continue to guide its evolution as Campbell and Coote push the brand to new heights. Evolving its minimal core aesthetic into a louder voice, SIR has cemented their place in the industry with collections that never fail to capture international demand, nimbly balancing a chase for new customers with honoring its growing, loyal fan base.
Monica Paolini is the designer of Sea New York. In 2009, Monica, whose history includes nine years as Design Director at Betsey Johnson and three years at Jill Stuart as Head Design Assistant, joined her partner Sean to launch SEA NEW YORK. The two work together to find the theme of each collection, select fabrics and prints, detail designs, merchandise collections, style look books, manage the sales and brand strategy and oversee the production and delivery.
Meet The Author
Aemilia Madden is a writer, editor, and brand consultant who has worked in the fashion industry for over eight years. She’s an Oakland, California native and Brooklyn resident. When she’s not writing about the latest trends, Aemilia is running in prospect park, testing new recipes on her friends, and trying to keep up with her New Yorker subscription. Madden wrote the original version of this summer dress story for 2022.
Nikki Chwatt is the Style Commerce Editor for WWD and Footwear News, where she both writes and edits stories on the latest clothing, accessory, and shoe must-haves. As a city dweller, she’s garnered a love for dresses because they can be worn for different occasions around the city. In her spare time, Chwatt keeps up with street style to understand which garments and accessories are highly coveted by the style set. Chwatt updated this summer dresses story with new expert tips and styles to wear for 2023.