Few wardrobe staples embody summer like a crisp white dress. “There’s something iconic about a breezy white dress in summer—it just feels right,” says Allison Berlin, stylist and founder of Style Made Simple. From beachy midis to office-ready shirtdresses, the versatility of white makes it a seasonless favorite.
To curate the best options, we consulted five stylists on their top picks, material recommendations, and flattering silhouettes for every body type.
Stylist Favorites: Standout White Dresses
Classic Eyelet Dress
Berlin highlights this timeless pick with button-up detailing, pockets, and subtle ruffle trim. “The eyelet fabric and feminine touches make it a summer staple you’ll reuse for years,” she says.
The ‘Nap Dress’ Maxi
A CNN Underscored favorite, this smocked-bust style features ruffled straps and a tiered skirt. Though labeled a maxi, it hits mid-calf, making it petite-friendly. The white version boasts a playful dotted fabric.
Tea-Length Cotton Dress
Stylist Samantha Dawn praises this tea-length option for its elongating neckline and structured panels. “It defines the waist without restricting movement,” she notes.
Seersucker Nightgown Dress
For effortless comfort, this roomy seersucker dress channels bohemian vibes. Pair it with cowboy boots for contrast—but size down for a less oversized fit.
How to Choose the Perfect White Dress
Silhouettes Matter
- A-line dresses “accentuate the waist and add femininity,” says Dawn.
- Puffy sleeves balance pear-shaped or rectangular frames, per stylist Nicole Ellis.
- Wrap or cinched-waist styles flatter hourglass and apple shapes, while shift dresses suit inverted triangles.
Fabric First
Linen and cotton are summer essentials for breathability, all stylists agree.
Trend Alert
Whimsical milkmaid dresses and corset bodices blend vintage charm with modern flair, says stylist Maria Vazquez. Preppy shirtdresses and relaxed “nap dress” iterations also dominate trends.
Why White?
“Foundational colors like white are having a major moment,” notes stylist Rachel Conroy. “Designers showcased them repeatedly on runways—so if you’ve hesitated, now’s the time to embrace them.”
Whether you opt for minimalist tailoring or romantic ruffles, a white dress promises effortless elegance all season long.
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