5 Chic High Street Summer Dresses & How To Style Them

As the mass exodus to more reliably clement climes begins, so our thoughts turn to the business of packing. And, aside from all the essentials (sunglasses, sun lotion, sandals, a propulsive book, et cetera), what we’ve learned over the years is that all we really need is a a couple of good, versatile dresses. Happily, the great British high street obliges: this is our pick of the best high street dresses for summer 2024.

M&S

Pure Cotton Bardot Midaxi Waisted Dress


This easy-to-wear sophisticated dress is perfect for the summer hols, its rich chocolate hue offsetting sun-kissed skin perfectly. The off-the shoulder ruffle detail makes it well worthy of its glamorous namesake.

Brora

Organic Pin Tuck Dress, £175 (Was £295)


Channelling the drama and beauty of flamenco, this intricately made dress, with its hundreds of pin-tucks, moves so beautifully, it was made for dancing.

Toast

Collector Print Fluid Shirt Dress, £185


Toast’s crepe dresses just get better and better. We love this simplicity of the of cut here, allied with the pattern, which is inspired by the botanical forms of contemporary artist Louise Despont. Perfect for everything from tea on the lawn to bobbing around Sunday markets.

Cos

Voluminous Sleeveless Midi Dress, £85


Classic Cos with a 1920s twist, we love the scrupulous simplicity, the cotton-jersey form-fitting bodice and the dropped waist. The perfect take-you-everywhere dress, from the beach to evening soirées (and even to work once you land back home).

Anthropologie

Pilcro Short-Sleeve T-Shirt Midi Dress, £160


Easy, breezy and completely effortless, every summer holiday wardrobe needs a loose-fitting dress to throw on and go. This beauty from Anthropologie is perfect in all the above regards as well as being sweetly romantic too.