8 Summer-Proof Dresses We’re Completely Obsessed With

Summertime is for pretty dresses. From flouncy maxis and relaxed A-line silhouettes to sultry minis and bare-shouldered styles, our love affair with summery dresses is truly blind.

When the temperature rises and the simple act of getting dressed, let alone picking an outfit for the heat, requires a level of motivation unparalleled to other seasons, we can always turn to a simple summer dress.

From office-appropriate to vacation-ready looks, we’ve found the best summer dresses for the season ahead—just add sandals.

The Best Summer Dresses For 2024

Anna Quan Remi Dress

$620 at David Jones

Relaxed tailoring and casual suiting styles are no longer a trend but a staple of our wardrobes. Why? Because, much like this polished mini, they’ll prove to be investment pieces that can take you from the office to the bar. This button-down mini also has the potential to be worn year round, layered over a turtleneck and stockings.

Style Notes:

• Material: 100% wool
• Colour: Black or green 
• Delivery: Free express on orders over $100 

Pauline Halter Mini Dress

$220 at Bec + Bridge

This floral halter neck is made for beachside vacays, sunset cocktails and balmy nights out on the dance floor.

Style Notes:

• Material: 93% viscose, 7% elastane
• Colour: White floral 
• Delivery: Free shipping on all orders

Side Tie Linen Mini Dress

$200 at Venroy

This linen mini is like sartorial sunshine. A dress that instantly brightens any summer day in a warm weather-approved linen, the straight silhouette makes for easy wearing while the asymmetrical neckline adds a touch of flare.

Style Notes:

• Material: 100% linen 
• Colour: Yellow, Black or White 
• Delivery: Free shipping on all Australian orders

Illuminating Maxi Dress

$79 at The Iconic

The key-hole bow closure, the black piping detail, the precious floral print, the semi sheer fabrication, the affordable price point—everything about this strapless maxi is summer perfection.

Style Notes:

• Material: 96% Polyester & 4% Elastane
• Colour: Beige floral
• Delivery: Free on orders over

Nicola Maxi Dress

$249 at Faithfull The Brand

On days when it’s too hot for clothes at all, we only want lightweight maxi dresses that make for effortless, cool wearing while still looking stylish. This floral number from Faithfull The Brand delivers on all points.

Style Notes:

• Material:100% rayon georgette
• Colour: Pink and red floral
• Delivery: Free on orders over $150

Davey Mini Dress

$549 at Lee Mathews

We’ve been obsessed with finding the perfect square-neck shift mini since spotting the style on Gucci’s Spring/Summer ’24 runway, and we’ve finally found it at Lee Mathews. Perfect worn on its own, you can layer over a crisp white shirt for the office, a skivvy in the winter or unbutton the sides and layer over trousers for a Y2K-inspired look.

Style Notes:

• Material: 60% cotton 40% nylon
• Colour: Black or white
• Delivery: Free on orders over $300

Mimi Striped Crochet Boat Neck Dress

$199.99 at Dissh

Crochet dresses are making a comeback in a big way this season and we couldn’t be happier about it. With a soft stretch that hugs the silhouette in all the right places and a resort feel, this dress will become a fast favourite in your wardrobe.

Style Notes:

• Material: 100% cotton 
• Colour: Black, white and tan
• Delivery: Free on orders over $100 

Encompass Utility Midi Dress

$495 at Aje

The crisp tailoring of this midi dress makes for a stunning summer work dress when paired with a kitten heel. For a more casual look, tone it down with neutral slides or wear it open like a sleeveless trench over a tank and trousers.

Style Notes:

• Material: 55% Linen 45% Viscose
• Colour: White
• Delivery: Free on orders over $300