The high street never used to be the place fashion girls went for statement pieces—or at least statement pieces that didn't look, well, a tad cheap. They would have other sources, whether it was a lesser-known affordable brand, niche online platform or in-the-know designer label. The high street has, however, finally developed a bit more personality over the last few years, and now happily rivals far more expensive competitors for the affections of the fashion elite.
These brands have the finger on the buzzer of what pieces sell—in short, they know what women want. In particular, it seems as though the likes of Zara, & Other Stories and Topshop have been competing to create the most adventurous and statement-making summer dresses this season, and we're more than happy to reap the benefits.
From voluminous sleeves and paintbox brights to dramatic silhouettes (it's not all about colour you know) and head-turning prints, these dresses are guaranteed to own a room. Shrinking violets need not apply. So, if you're on the market for some winning frocks this summer, here are four high-street dress styles that are sure to garner plenty of compliments. Scroll down to see and shop the full edit.
Statement Sleeves
Style Notes: You can't walk into a high-street store this season without bumping into at least five puffed sleeve dresses. They're everywhere. This is the girly-girl's statement style for S/S 19, and they come in everything from florals to polka dots.
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Paintbox Brights
Style Notes: Thanks to the unexpected rise of neon colourways, we're seeing lots of paintbox brights flood the market. They might have the hues of a toy box, but these grown-up creations are anything but childish.
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Related: I Searched Through 100s of Zara Dresses—These Are the 22 That Stood Out
Related: We Try Before You Buy: 15 Summer Dresses Our Editors Love
Statement Silhouettes
Style Notes: Minimalists rejoice, because the statement dress isn't just reserved for bright colours and eye-popping prints. Paired-back, but no less dramatic, styles have plenty of currency this year—think smocks and waist-tie dresses. They're sure to look fab with your fave Birkenstocks.
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Unusual Prints
Style Notes: High-street brands have really gone to town on prints this summer and ain't afraid to show it. H&M's conscious collection zebra print midi went viral on Instagram, while tie-dye has continued to win the hearts of fashion editors and influencers alike.
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Up Next: I Just Tried on the High Street's Best Mini, Midi and Maxi Dresses
