If there’s one dress that screams summer it’s the little white dress. Simple, stylish and it looks great with a suntan. I love designs with a bit of broderie anglaise trim or frill to add a feminine touch, or button detail for contrast. Wearing white is great in summer as it reflects the heat rather than absorbing it so will keep you cool. The downside of wearing white is obviously that it is more prone to visible marks – so it will probably need washing more than other clothing. Wash as soon as you notice any marks – once they settle it will be harder to bring it back to its original pristine condition (particularly make up, sweat or sun lotion). Most of these dresses are cotton so will withstand a higher temp wash which is best for stain removal (check the care labels though – if there are delicate lace trims or linings hand-washing or dry-cleaning may be necessary). Adding whitening or brightening agents to the wash will help to maintain the brightness too. And if you leave to dry hanging outside then the whites will benefit from the sun’s natural bleaching rays. Here are some of my top picks available now for every budget. There are some great budget little white dresses available that look just as good if not better than some of the designer options!
Designer:
Sarafina lace-paneled embroidered cotton-voile midi dress, £650, Talitha
Corsail lace-insert cotton dress, £975, Zimmerman
Sofie broderie-anglaise cotton dress, £460, Sea
Embroidered cotton silk dress, £696, Burberry
Mid-range:
Y.A.S High Neck Lace Midi Dress With Asymetric Hem, £120, ASOS.
Belted pleated pointelle-trimmed cotton midi dress, £195, Michael Kors
Aileen Zinnia Dress, £168, All Saints
Ivory Broderie Anglaise Dress, £89 (reduced from £129) Mint Velvet
Budget:
Embroidered midi dress, £39.99, Zara
Ruffled lined dress, £49.99, Mango
Broderie midi dress, £65, Oasis
Embroidered dress, £69.99, H&M
The Lady's Maid 