As we shed our winter layers in favor of linen and chiffon, brighter days are finally upon us— and we’re ready to dress like it. From ‘60s drop waists and ‘70s plunges to slinky ‘90s slips, this season’s dresses are full of vintage references. Since street style last fashion month ran the gamut in both silhouette and palette, keep your eye out for a spectrum of colour. Dress trends include equal parts soft pastels, bright shades, and as we spotted all along the Oscars champagne carpet: white. Spring/Summer 2023 collections showed rather on-the-nose details like lace and floral embellishment, but period fashion remixes gave them a contemporary spin.
Despite the excitement of novel trends, a spring dress should ultimately be effortless, and given the fluctuating hot-cold weather, easily layered. Whether you prefer a flowing maxi or an itty bitty micro mini, your new favorite spring dress is awaiting ahead.
Ciao Lucia! is made for the girl on eternal vacation. Effortless and free, this nostalgic double-smocked dress is equally fitting for casual seaside activities or a ritzy dinner with friends.
Ciao Lucia! Gabriela Dress, $315, Ciao Lucia!
Christopher Esber’s strapless dress is elegant as ever. Refining its comfortable, lightweight material is a sophisticated ruched bodice, making this dress effortlessly chic for warm days.
Christopher Esber Strapless Ruche Dress, $914, Fwrd
Anyone who considers white dresses boring has never seen this midi dress by Aje. Featuring molded ruching throughout, a flattering drop waist silhouette, and subtle hardware accent, this piece is a definitive show-stopper.
Aje Mika Linen-Blend Midi Dress, $695, Moda Operandi
Alexia Elkaim’s brand Miaou has been seen on just about every it girl over recent years. Merging sexy tailoring with Parisian nonchalance, this cheerful piece can easily be dressed up or down.
Miaou Vivi Mini Dress, $121, Fwrd
Everyone needs a go-to black dress. This one by Nicholas juxtaposes a sculpted boned bodice with the fluidity of a cotton tea-length skirt. Although strapless dresses are the style of the season, this timeless piece will be in your closet forever.
Nicholas Jaxon Drop Waist Broomstick Pleated Midi Dress, $495, Fwrd
Aussie brand Significant Other focuses on body contouring and exceptional fit. Inspired by the Greek island Therasia, this airy blue-green design is hand-draped to perfection.
Significant Other Verona Dress, $230, Moda Operandi
It’s all peachy in this bias-cut gown by Sir. With its contrast floral cut-outs and elegant silk fabrication, this is a playful take on a traditional slip.
Sir Aries Cut Out Gown, $490, Sir
Dedicated to female empowerment, dresses are central to Anna October’s eponymous brand. This season, October feminizes a simplistic silhouette with a flattering side slit, delicate cap sleeves, and a dreamy pastel pattern.
Anna October Valerie Silk-Satin Patchwork Maxi Dress, $710, Moda Operandi
The ideal spring dress is effortless and flowy. Clea’s flared midi dress checks all the boxes, literally and figuratively.
Clea Alexis Check Square-Neck Midi Dress, $407, Matches Fashion
If you’re looking for expert tailoring, look no further than Victoria Beckham. Feel pretty in pink with this quintessentially timeless design.
Victoria Beckham Gathered Waist Midi Dress, $1,150, Shopbop
The polo is a certified warm weather essential. Mango’s openwork knit dress offers a modern, feminized take on this tried-and-true classic.
Mango Polo-Style Knit Dress, $60, Mango
“Naked” dresses ruled the Spring/Summer 2023 runways. This semi-sheer version by Soulland is right on trend while remaining subtle enough for everyday wear.
Soulland Pink Nane Midi Dress, $205, Ssense
With its brown pattern and deep plunge neckline, this mid-length dress by Maimoun has that ‘70s appeal. Enhance its retro look by styling with a fur-embellished coat and pair of platforms.
Maimoun Anne Isabella Spray Stripe Halter Dress, $238, Maimoun
