Dresses
May 26, 2023

25 Throw-On Summer Dresses That Still Feel Really Polished

by Bébhinn Campbell

Every year, there comes a point when I make the switch from my usual uniform (jeans and a simple top, probably striped) to donning dresses everyday. It usually happens somewhere between mid-May and June, and it's prompted by the first signs of warmer weather. After several weeks of blue(r) skies and milder temperatures, I feel safe in making the transition now. After all, when we find ourselves in 20-degree climes, there's no comfier item to float around in than a lightweight cotton dress.

To be more specific, cotton poplin is the fabrication I'll be stocking up on for the coming months. It's crisper and softer than its sister fabrics, and it's naturally wrinkle-resistant. You'll be grateful for this fact when you stuff your holiday dresses unceremoniously into your suitcase, only to discover there's no iron in your hotel room. We've all been there.

The good news is that the closer we get to summer, the more poplin dresses are populating new-in categories. The bad news, if you're impatient like me, is this means sifting through hundreds of styles in search of the perfect dress (or two, or five). But don't worry—I've taken one for the team and done the wading for you. Keep scrolling to see and shop the best poplin dresses for the season ahead.

Whistles Greta Ruched Poplin Dress

Greta Ruched Poplin Dress

This colour will instantly put you in a good mood.

Arket Poplin Shirt Dress

Poplin Shirt Dress

The perfect chuck-on dress for a casual weekend.

Ulla Johnson Fiorella One-Shoulder Gathered Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress

Fiorella One-Shoulder Gathered Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress

It seems like one-shoulder silhouettes are everywhere at the moment—this is a trend I can get on board with.

Free People Linda Lou Poplin Dress

Linda Lou Poplin Dress

This dress is begging to be brought on a Mediterranean getaway.

Nobody's Child Fearne Cotton Nova Midi Dress

Fearne Cotton Nova Midi Dress

This is a great wedding guest option.

H&M Collared Poplin Dress

Collared Poplin Dress

Embrace the minidress revival with this fun geometric design.

Matteau One-Shoulder Floral-Print Organic Cotton-Poplin Maxi Dress

One-Shoulder Floral-Print Organic Cotton-Poplin Maxi Dress

I'd style this with a raffia clutch and strappy sandals.

Nobody's Child Petite Green Stripe Elora Midi Dress

Petite Green Stripe Elora Midi Dress

This one is for those of you who are under 5"3.

Reformation Catarina Dress

This playful frock also comes in bright red, black and blue-and-white floral.

Zara Poplin Embroidered Midi Dress

Poplin Embroidered Midi Dress

Just add a basket bag and Birkenstocks. Simple.

Batsheva Clemmie Striped Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress

Clemmie Striped Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress

This is the kind of design that feels fresh but will simultaneously stand the test of time.

H&M H&M+ Puff-Sleeved Poplin Dress

H&M+ Puff-Sleeved Poplin Dress

An easy option for lazy days.

Kitri Titania Multi Floral Swirl Dress

Titania Multi Floral Swirl Dress

Pluck out one of the colours in this dress to match your accessories to.

John Lewis Cut Out Cotton Poplin Dress

Cut Out Cotton Poplin Dress

John Lewis' Anyday line offers so many stylish, affordable dresses.

Zara Short Poplin Dress

Short Poplin Dress

Take this dress from the office to Friday drinks.

Dôen BeatriceOrganic Cotton-Poplin Mini Dress

BeatriceOrganic Cotton-Poplin Mini Dress

This intricate piece has been at the top of my wish list for weeks...

Zara Poplin Dress With Straps

Poplin Dress With Straps

Flowy, comfortable and oh-so chic.

Khaite Sicily Cotton-Poplin Slip Dress

Sicily Cotton-Poplin Slip Dress

I'm imagining wearing this to a beachfront dinner on a Greek island. A girl can dream.