These 8 Trending High-Street Dresses Look So Expensive

Here at Who What Wear, we pride ourselves on being able to seek out the next big trends and uncover those must-see pieces that end up reaching cult status before anyone else. Fine-tuning this art means spending a lot of time combing though the new-in sections of our favourite brands and the Instagram feeds of the most stylish fashion insiders and decoding trends as they hit the runway to keep a step ahead.

Summer means the dress reigns supreme, and although this summer has already given us a whole host of some incredible designer dresses, there's plenty to be said about the high street, too. There are more premium-quality, affordable and sustainable options on the high street than ever before, making our job of putting together the perfect edit that much trickier—but not impossible. Thinking of the ultimate high-impact, low-maintenance dress to see you through this summer, we've put together seven standout dresses to make getting ready in the morning as easy as possible. So whether you prefer a floaty maxi or structured mini, these picks come influencer and editor approved and are likely to crop up everywhere in the coming months. Scroll down to shop our top picks so you get to say you had it first. 

1. Pointelle Knit Midi Dress, & Other Stories

We called it: The cover-up dress is one of our six dress trends to get excited about, and this fine knit number from & Other Stories shows why. Expect to spot this shopping in the city or over a bikini on the beach, as it has just the right amount of sheer breathability and polished boho energy.

2. Cader Dress, Drop 01 by Who What Wear UK 

Okay, we might be a little biased, but Drop 01 was designed by our readers, for our readers, so we're confident that you'll love our chic and affordable way to shop sustainably. It's impossible to choose just one favourite from the collection, but the Cader dress is a universally flattering black midi that can be worn four different ways. 

3. Patterned Dress, H&M 

Just when you thought the tropical sunset and sea colours were the best part of this playful mini, the back has a tie detail and deep V for a little extra drama. Pair with strappy black sandals for evening like Maria McFarlane did, or up the cool factor with chunky black slip-ons. 

4. Linen Dress, Mango

Every summer needs at least one good linen dress, but it doesn't have to be a white, longsleeved kaftan. This Mango dress proves that linen can be bright, bold and fashion-forward—it just so happens that it's functional, too. 

5. Rose Chiffon Ruffle Midi Dress, New Look 

Okay, so now that we've seen this dress in every single colourway, we're convinced it's a certified viral hit. A floaty, romantic dress like this will see you through every special occasion you have this summer, from weddings to beach getaways. 

6. Christie Puff Sleeve Midi, Reiss

There's something about the silhouette of this dress that makes it look far more expensive than high-street. A plunge neckline, puff sleeves and A-line skirt are all details we love in a summer dress, and this one has it all. 

7. Mesh Dress, H&M 

If you're looking for a dress with the wow factor, we've found it. The salsa-dancing emoji come to life, this sheer, ruffled dress stopped me in my tracks and is a guaranteed head-turner IRL too. Be prepared for questions because this look will get plenty of "Where did you get that dress?"

8. Smocked Bodice Midi Dress, Boden

One of the most important parts of getting ready at the weekend is finding the easiest and most comfortable outfit to put together quickly so you have as much time as possible to enjoy your free time. This instant outfit is the relaxed way to add a dose of colour to your day—no zips, ties or buttons required.

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