The Chicest White Dresses To Add To Bag This Summer

The sartorial equivalent of an ice-cold drink on a warm day, a crisp white dress is instantly refreshing. It feels put together without being overdone, and delivers the sort of easy-breezy aesthetic we all seek when the mercury rises. And, like its classic counterpart, the LBD, it’s eminently versatile, with designs to suit every style – and every occasion. By day, Toteme’s ’90s-inspired slip (a NET-A-PORTER exclusive) will look chic with a beaded necklace, flip flops and a woven leather tote for brunches in the city, while Khaite’s ‘Astor’ mini is a stunning option for evening events. Elsewhere, The Row delivers a dose of off-duty elegance with its ‘Latoya’ midi dress. Made from soft cotton in a loose silhouette, it looks particularly cool worn with a long pendant necklace and ballet pumps.

If you’re on the hunt for vacation-ready designs, look to styles by NET SUSTAIN brand Matteau. This mini dress is cut from weightless cotton with pretty shirred detailing and is the perfect canvas for a printed satin headscarf and mesh ballet flats for lunch by the coast. Alternatively, try Staud’s ‘Grazia’ mini dress, which cleverly fuses effortless ’50s elegance with contemporary appeal – just add stacked bracelets and strappy sandals.

A white dress also lends itself beautifully to a whimsical, bohemian mood, and Dôen’s ‘Eliette’ midi is a perfect example. It’s cut from organic cotton detailed with ruffles, pintucks and broderie anglaise. Wear it with a raffia tote and slides for afternoon strolls through town. If you prefer your dresses minimal and understated, try Róhe’s sculptural cotton midi. Designed with a sweetheart neckline and a voluminous skirt, it works as well with flats as it does heeled sandals for summer events.

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