I Only Wear Dresses in Summer: 24 Styles That Have My Full Attention Right Now

If there's one thing I'm sure of, it's that I’m a dress person through and through. I’d say a hefty 80% of my wardrobe consists of them, and while there are certain shapes and fits I’m drawn to more than others (I’m looking at you, floaty, puff-sleeved numbers) I’m definitely not fussy when it comes to dress styles. 

This is a trait I can 100% attribute to my incredibly stylish and perennially cool mum, who herself is a dress fanatic. From linen strappy styles for holidays to party-ready minis, and transitional floral midis that go with boots to work-appropriate shirt styles, between us we probably have every dress style possible accounted for. Luckily we’re about the same size, and who doesn’t love a bit of wardrobe swapping every now and again? However, there is one dress that reigns supreme for me, my mum and a whole myriad of editors, influencers and fashion people alike, and that's a maxi dress.

The 24 Best Maxi Dresses for Spring 2023: Who What Wear Managing Editor Poppy Nash wearing a Joslin maxi dress

Photo:

@POPPYNASH

Wearing Joslin.

What’s the beauty of a maxi dress I hear you ask? Where to begin. Firstly, a maxi dress is possibly the easiest wardrobe staple to wear and style. Just throw on your favourite with weather-appropriate footwear and you’re good to go. Secondly, they’re really easy to transition from season to season and occasion to occasion, making them one of the most versatile items in your sartorial arsenal. And thirdly, they are just so damn comfy. And that is the biggest plus of all. 

Since there is no time more appropriate for me to sing the praises of a maxi dress than spring/summer, I've crafted my ultimate list of the best maxi dresses that will take you from the park to the office, and a wedding to a beach break. Plus, to make things really easy for you, I’ve split them up into four core categories: Neutral maxis, bright maxis, black maxis and floral maxis. Enjoy!

Shop the Best Spring Maxi Dresses

1. The Best Neutral Spring Maxi Dresses

This gorgeous maxi also comes in a peachy pink hue too.

A knitted maxi is so versatile. Wear this scoop back sytle with heels, sandals or trainers.

Is there anything prettier than a white broderie dress?

Zara's iteration is perfect for any upcoming holidays. 

Faune's gorgeous dresses are some of my favourites. This silky slip could so easily be dressed up or down.

2. The Best Bright Spring Maxi Dresses

Wear this maxi on holiday with flip flops or to a wedding with heels.

Green is set to be one of 2023's biggest colour trends.

This is sitting right at the top of my wish list right now.

The tiered skirt, the cut-out detail, the colour... It all gets a yes from me.

Taller Marmo dresses are some of the WWW team's favourites when it comes to event dressing.

3. The Best Black Spring Maxi Dresses

I have a feeling this will sell out very soon...

You can always rely on Reformation for beautiful dresses.

As the name suggests, just chuck this maxi dress on and go.

Another knitted style that will work hard for you all year round.

There's something so chic about a black maxi, don't you think?

4. The Best Floral Spring Maxi Dresses

Dôen is a brand I return to time and time again for great quality dresses that don't date.

A bright maxi dress that makes you feel great is an investment worth making this year.

There's something very Little Women about this style, and I'm not mad about it.

Ganni's statement style is perfect for hot summer's days.