These Understated Yet Chic Dresses That Will Save You Each and Every Morning
When it comes to my everyday uniform, there are certain items I always wear on repeat. For me, often that piece is a dress—whether it's a timeless shirt dress or a slip style—they're an integral part of my wardrobe that I wear on heavy rotation. And when it comes to my most-worn, the answer is also a midi dress. Incredibly versatile, they are the answer to easy outfits.
Which brings us to casual midi dresses. The thing is, though, I struggle with the term "casual" (speaking as someone who usually likes to be overdressed for an occasion), and I believe any dress can be made to be more casual if you style it the right way. For example, a slinky slip dress that feels fancy can be worn for daytime with trainers and an oversized blazer. A billowing style just needs chunky sandals to keep it in more casual territory, and layering any dress with different shirts, jackets and coats is a surefire way to keep it looking relaxed.
Danielle Jinadu wearing an Aligne midi dress.
For me, casual just means any dress that can work for a multitude of occasions. You know, the sort of styles that don't look like you've spent weeks deciding on them (even if you have) but still earn you compliments.
So, as a bit of a self-proclaimed dress expert, I've found the best casual midi dresses to suit all budgets, from under £50 to under £1000. And, as you can imagine, they get slightly less "casual" as the price points increase. Because I'm sure most people will agree—if you're spending up to four figures on any dress, you would expect it have a certain level of wow-factor.
SHOP CHIC CASUAL MIDI DRESSES
Gingham dresses are incredibly classic, especially when shirring is involved.
This slip will wear just as wear with tan sliders as it will heeled mules.
With its two-tone detailing, this looks so high-end.
Matteau dresses are an influencer favourite in the summer months.
Shadow prints are usually found on designer dresses.
From the layering to the intricate embroidery, this dress is the sweetest on the list.
Try styling this with Birkenstocks and a knit knotted around the shoulders for an everyday spin.
Floral print dresses will always be relevant.
Harriet Davey is a freelance fashion editor who has been part of Who What Wear's extended team since 2017. She previously worked in print at Look magazine and has since worked across print, digital and social for many other titles, including British Vogue, Stylist, Grazia, Refinery29 and Marie Claire. Also a stylist, Harriet has had the pleasure of producing cover shoots and editorials along with commercial shoots for brands including Boux Avenue, Watches of Switzerland, Benefit Cosmetics and Revolution. To add to this, Harriet also works in live TV styling for ITV’s This Morning.Back to Who What Wear. With hundreds of published stories on site, Harriet knows what the WWW reader wants. Keeping up to date with the latest It buys and runway trends, she can guarantee to keep you one step ahead of the most stylish people.When not writing or styling, Harriet loves to go shopping (yes, more fashion). If she’s not in a local Hackney bar or restaurant, you can find her forever searching for her next holiday destination.
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