It's official: I've been spending too much time on Instagram. And thanks to my endless scrolling—combined with my itch to refresh my wardrobe for the transitional season weather ahead—I've got dresses on the brain. So many of my favourite influencers are proving the versatility and effortless coolness of dress silhouettes—but which ones to go for?
The good news is, most of the dresses that keep popping up on my Instagram feed are classic styles that may be trending now, but will be wearable for years to come. From the latest iterations of the classic, Audrey Hepburn-approved LBD to the transitional season essential, the knitted midi, most of these dresses are fresh takes on timeless silhouettes.
For those looking to branch out beyond the ultra-simple styles, there are a few trends that are set to dominate for the months ahead. If you're going for a colour, it has to be red, if you're looking to play with texture, it has to include lace, and if you're going to experiment with silhouettes, focus on styles that have a surprising twist around the waist.
If you're also planning on refreshing your dress selection for the months ahead, scroll on to see my pick of the styles that influencers are swearing by—and a few picks of the best versions to embrace the trends.
SHOP THE 10 INFLUENCER-APPROVED DRESS STYLES FOR 2024:
1. Linen Minis
Style Notes: Soak up the final weeks of summer in a classic style that will come back every summer: the linen mini. Whether you opt for a simple shift or a style with a more structured silhouette, all you'll need is a pair of simple sandals and a pair of sunglasses to complete the chic look.
Perfect for extra hot days.
I love the neckline of this mini.
I'm obsessed with this colour.
The texture is really gorgeous.
This tennis-core inspired look is so cool.
2. White Shifts
Style Notes: Next to the LBD (more on that soon), a simple white dress is one of the most versatile styles you can own. This season, I'm seeing influencers gravitate towards the minimalist vibe of a shift, column silhouette. It gives you the ultimate flexibility—follow Monikh's example and pair with a flowing trench coat, or create a more sculpted silhouette by cinching the waist with a belt.
I'm dreaming of recreating this whole look.
Broderie Anglaise is brilliant for summer wear.
Don't miss the open back.
For a bit more of a structured silhouette, opt for a fitted top that gives way to a more flowing skirt.
I'm a big fan of this textured style.
3. Strapless Maxis
Style Notes: The strapless maxi has had a resurgence over the last few months, and has become a piece that influencers are proving can be styled for day wear. This is largely thanks to Sofia Richie's viral black-and-white dress, but now there's a vast array of colours and patterns to choose from.
Such an easy, throw-on dress.
I love the silhouette of this style.
Perfect for evening wear.
This is my must-have dress.
A great dupe of the style Sofia Richie wore.
4. The LBD
Style Notes: Ever since I saw this picture of Brittany Bathgate, I've been on a mission to finally find the perfect LBD. Whether you like the sculptural, minimalist style that she's modelling, or a more flowing, draped silhouette, there's a black dress for you.
How gorgeous is the exposed back?
I love the modern take on the Fifties silhouette.
The drape of this satin dress is unreal.
No one does sophisticated minimalism better than Gabriela Hearst.
A brilliant high street alternative to the Gabriela Hearst style.
5. Knitted Midis
Style Notes: Transitional season dressing is on the horizon, and I'll be turning to the classic knitted midi to see me through. This versatile dress can be layered up for cooler days, but a sleeveless style worn solo with trainers or heels is ideal for those middling temperature days.
So sleek.
I love the French vibe of this striped midi.
Inject a bit of colour into your wardrobe with this sunny dress.
This would look so chic with a cropped jacket.
Such an elegant colour and cut.
6. Red Dresses
Style Notes: If there's one colour that's going to dominate for the rest of the year, it's red. Crimson or burgundy, tomato or cherry, this is the colour that will be popping up in every influencer's feed.
Personally, this is my favourite hue.
I love the mix of reds and pinks in this floral dress.
Such a gorgeous basic that can be styled so many ways.
I've spotted this exact dress at so many weddings.
A truly elegant dress.
7. Lace Trims
Style Notes: Looking for a dress with a touch of texture? It's time to embrace lace. This subtly (or not-so-subtly) seductive fabric can work for day or night, whether it's used as a peekaboo panel or as a trim.
The ultimate date night dress.
An ideal dress for any upcoming weddings.
Layer with a coat on cooler days, or pair with sandals and sunglasses for a summery look.
The lace panel is so chic.
Add a blazer and boots to make this work in the autumn.
8. Waist Details
Style Notes: This season, our favourite dress designers are focused on the waist. From cut-outs to draping, drop-waist to cinched styles, the coolest silhouettes are all drawing the eye to the waistline.
The subtle peekaboo is such a cool touch.
An effortlessly elegant style.
Perfect for weekend or holiday wear.
This colour is ideal for summer.
This drape is so elite.
9. Black Slips
Style Notes: The brilliant thing about a black slip dress is how versatile it is. Follow Chrissy's example and layer with a blazer and boots for an easy day look, or style with necklaces and strappy heels for a sleek evening ensemble.
Simple, but so effective.
This has a slightly Twenties vibe that I'm very into.
The SKIMS dress is an influencer favourite.
Stunning.
Crossing off the lace trend, too.
10. Patterned Midis
Style Notes: Simple may be in style, but that doesn't mean patterns are taking a back seat. Opt for the classic prints, like polka dots or vintage-inspired florals, to get the most wear out of your dresses. I plan on copy Tamara and pairing mine with a cropped cardigan and trainers for an easy, Parisian-inspired look.
This bold polka dot print is so cool.
I'm a big fan of Kitri's retro prints.
Note the lace trim!
When it comes to floral vintage-inspired dresses, DÔEN is unmatched.
Pair with a cardigan and slides for a effortlessly sophisticated look.
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