Everyone might be excited for autumn, but the sunshine is still here, so we're taking full advantage. The white dress reigns supreme when the weather is good. After all, the LWD - the little while dress - is about as stereotypical a summer dress as they come. Nothing looks better teamed with tan accessories, raffia bags and gold jewellery.
If you're looking for a wonderful white summer dress, don't worry, we've got you. We've perused the virtual aisles for the best white summer dresses for 2025...
A case for the white summer dress
"The white summer dress transcends trends and stands the test of time," says Personal Stylist Helen Richardson. "Its timeless appeal lies in its simplicity and versatility. Like a blank canvas, the white summer dress invites endless possibilities for personal expression. Its purity and crispness expresses a sense of freshness and vitality, perfectly mirroring the carefree spirit of summer. From garden parties to beachside soirées, the white summer dress effortlessly adapts to any occasion, making it a staple in every fashion enthusiast's wardrobe. With each passing season, its charm only grows stronger, reminding us that classic beauty never goes out of style."
From left to right: Hailey Bieber, Meghan Markle, Emily Ratajkowski and Sarah Jessica Parker
Hailey Bieber can do no wrong when it comes to fashion - and she looked incredible when she posed on Instagram wearing the Mirror Palais ruffle dress, Meghan Markle is a fan of the all-white look and was once photographed wearing a Hannah Lavery ethically-made shirt dress while on a royal tour with Prince Harry in Africa. Next up, well, it's Emily Ratajkowski looking like she's ready for the beach, and an iconic white dress from Sarah Jessica Parker dressed up as Carrie Bradshaw on the streets of New York filming the Sex and The City movie.
How we chose the best white summer dresses
Machine washable: It's important that a white dress is washable, no one wants to be visiting the dry cleaner every week.
Inclusive sizing: We wanted the dresses to be available in all sizes.
Versatility: Some people want a white summer dress for the daytime, others want one for the evening. We tried to give lots of options in this edit.
Cut to a regular fit, M&S's mini dress will be a must-have trend item for the summer.
Wash at 40°C delicate.
Editor's Note: This jacquard shift dress is so pretty, but it's also playful thanks to the tie detail bows for a feminine flourish.Cut to a regular fit, it falls to a flattering mini length.
3/11
Karen Millen Scoop Neck Jersey Cotton Mix Maxi Dress
Midi style dress with a flattering fit-and-flare silhouette
Regular fit
Editor's Note: You might think of Karen Millen as a destination for regal occasionwear, but you can also find gorgeous date night dresses online as well. I'm voting for this square neck dress for balmy romantic evenings.
Perfect for a night out with heels. It's giving designer vibes, that's for sure.
Can be washed at 30 degrees.
Editor's Note: "Wow! I'm smitten with this white one-shouldered midi dress from Mango. It's chic and stylish, and it also has structure to it. Good if you're not the whimsical type."
We all want a comfortable white dress to reach for when we want a relaxed fit. This Finery number is a perfect blend of comfort and style, the 'Ebony' dress is a white tiered midi dress in cotton with fabric-covered buttons to the waist. The best bit? It features a shirred elasticated waist for a figure-flattering fit.
Editor's note: "River Island's 3D dress is a great occasion piece for summer. Add strappy sandals, a glam clutch bag and you'll be rocking a seriously stylish look."
8/11
New Look Sunshine Soul White Crochet Tie Shoulder Midi Dress
Made from lightweight cotton, this is the perfect airy beach dress
Machine washable
Editor's note: "This Accessorize beach dress has a shirred body, and thanks to the airy cotton composition makes it an ideal beach dress. Throw on over your swimsuit or bikini for sightseeing, lunch or snoozing under a parasol."
Editor's note: "Cos has created this refined take on a utility dress. Designed with stitched panels that fall into box pleats. It's crafted from soft cotton in a chalk hue and features discreet side pockets."
A beautiful fitted dress from celebrity favourite, Reformation.
Ok, I know I said they were all washable but this one is dry clean only, sorry.
Editor's Note: "This is giving... Meghan Markle's second wedding dress, darling! If you don't buy this dress, I will."
6 top tips for styling a white summer dress with confidence
The most important is wearing the right underwear! This is crucial when styling a white dress. Choose seamless, smooth and flesh coloured underwear to ensure they are not visible underneath your dress. This will help you feel confident and comfortable.
Experiment with different lengths and silhouettes to find the one that flatters your body shape and makes you feel confident.
The right footwear can elevate your white dress and complete your look. Pair it with sandals, sliders, wedges, or trainers for a casual vibe, or dress it up with block mules or espadrilles for a more formal occasion.
Accessories can transform a simple white dress into a fashion statement. Opt for bold jewellery like statement earrings, layered necklaces, or chunky bracelets to add personality and draw attention. Additionally, hats, belts, and sunglasses can add an extra touch of style to your look!
Play with ‘pops of colour’. White dresses serve as a blank canvas, so incorporate vibrant accessories like a colourful handbag, a patterned scarf, or brightly coloured shoes to infuse your outfit with energy and personality.
The most important tip is to wear your white summer dress with CONFIDENCE. Own your style, embrace your uniqueness, and feel good about yourself. Remember, confidence is the best accessory you can wear!
Helen Richardson, Personal Stylist
Meet the expert
Helen Richardson has over 15 years experience in personal styling
With a lifelong 'passion for fashion' and helping others, Helen has been styling friends since childhood. Family and friends urged her to leave her corporate career and start her own business to finally release the creative and compassionate version of herself. Her USP? "I understand the styling challenges that ‘real women’ face daily... using my skills and knowledge I have transformed the appearance of many ladies giving them the belief they can ‘Dress With Confidence’ everyday!" Find out more about Helen and follow her on Instagram.
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