The warm weather we’d all been waiting for finally arrived the other week, only to be interrupted by 10 days of grey skies and downpours. But it wouldn’t be England without a few fake summer starts, would it? By the end of this week, however, the heatwave is set to return, which means we will once again be reaching for our breezy tops, linen trousers and, of course, summer dresses.
I’m very picky when it comes to clothing. I’ve seen the very best and very worst (not naming any names) the industry has to offer. Even as a child I would obsess over even the most minute details when it came to clothes: the fit, the wash, the fabrication – it always had to be just so. Now I’m well into my career, it’s fair to say that a large portion of my job entails trying on and road-testing clothes. I have tried on over 100 pairs of jeans in order to find the right fit, I’ve tested out handfuls of basic T-shirts and countless pairs of tailored trousers. And, of course, I’ve tried a countless number of summer dresses.
Over the years, I’ve become an expert on how fabrics will fall, how sizes and silhouettes will fit, and how colours and patterns can determine the wearability of each dress. And, among the high street players, M&S has been a consistent style winner with its affordable dresses offering.
Below, I’ve put together my top seven dress selects currently available to buy at M&S – and each one is as stylish as the next.
The Day-To-Night Dress
M&S Square-Neck Dress Photograph: (M&S)
Column dresses are designed to skim the body rather than hug it, which is why I’ll always choose a column cut over a bias. This lightweight design is ideal for day-to-night dressing and even features adjustable, self-tie straps so you can play with the neckline depending on your mood. What’s more, the dress is fully lined – which is more rare than you’d expect – so you don’t need to worry about accidentally bearing all.
The Polka Dot Dress
M&S V-Neck Dress Photograph: (M&S)
Yes, polka dots are still very much on trend for 2026 and this black and yellow design is a fun, summery take on the style. Featuring under-bust seams and a tie fastening at the back, you can adjust this dress to sit as tight or loose as you want. The midi-length is timeless while the V-neck and frills add a point of difference making it ideal for countless summer occasions.
The Throw-On Dress
M&S Full Circle DressPhotograph: (M&S)
Throw-on dresses should be endlessly comfortable and undeniably chic – and this one ticks both of the boxes. With a round neckline and full circle seamed skirt, it elegantly cascades down the body into a midaxi length. The keyhole fastening and button closure at the back is a simple yet luxurious touch which gives this dress an elevated feel. I would happily wear this to the office with some ballet flats and plenty of silver jewellery.
The Cool Floral Dress
M&S Ditsy Floral DressPhotograph: (M&S)
Floral dresses aren’t my usual speed as I usually opt for block colours or checks. However, this ditsy print feels modern and cool and won’t overpower the overall aesthetic of an outfit.
This V-neck, short-sleeved cut is one of the most flattering dress silhouettes I’ve tried on. I’ll be wearing it all summer long.
The Mini Dress
M&S Cotton Smock Dress Photograph: (M&S)
If you’re wondering what a versatile mini dress looks like, then this is it. Made from pure cotton, it has a relaxed fit and floaty skirt which offer an easy, casual aesthetic ideal for everyday wear.
While sometimes it feels right to wear something a little more revealing, other times it feels better to be a little more covered up. I find that this loose silhouette with puffy sleeves always strikes the perfect balance, making me feel comfortable and confident on the hottest days.
The Midi Dress
M&S Cotton Midi Dress Photograph: (M&S)
As one of the trending colours of the year, plenty of brands have tried to achieve the perfect cobalt blue, but only M&S has met the mark.
The square-neck and waisted silhouetted have a classic appeal, while the colour is what makes it stand out and feel modern. A panelled design like this is also incredibly flattering, making this the ideal choice for all your summer plans.
The Checked Dress
M&S Cowl-Neck DressPhotograph: (M&S)
This sleeveless midi slip dress features a regular fit with a cool cowl neck. It skims the body and falls at the ideal midi length, making it easy to pair with both flats and heels.
Styling this up with similar neutrals will make this dress feel even more chic, whereas juxtaposing the colour palette with bold pinks or greens will make it feel more directional. The choice is yours!
Read the original article on ELLE UK
