The LBD was one of the greatest fashion inventions of the 20th century, attributed to Coco Chanel but has many iconic variations. However, in the heat and humidity of summer, there’s nothing better than the LBD’s younger cousin, the little white dress. I love the versatility and practicality of the easy, breezy, white day-dress, so today I’m sharing my ultimate list of little white dresses for every moment of the season.
It was also a good excuse to share some photos of our dreamy picnic in Upperville, VA last month. With the rolling fields, rosé brut, the evening felt very much like we were in the french countryside. We also had a gorgeous cheese and charcuterie board complete with crudité, dates and nuts, pickled onions and cornichons, fresh fruit and topped off with an earl gray pound cake with berries. It was as warm as July in Virginia gets but thanks to ivory linen I was chic rather than sweaty.
For the best white summer dresses, I recommend natural and breathable materials such as cotton, linen or blends, and cuts with good airflow to help you beat the heat. I bought the dress I am wearing here two summers ago in London and it has been a staple for every heatwave since. If it got through the gauntlet of scorching temperatures without air conditioning, you know it’s a keeper! So without further ado here are my list of dresses, sourced from some of my favorite brands, that work for any style you might need. Just click the links or the photos to shop!
Romantic- can you say cottage core? I couldn’t just pick one dress for this batch. Sezane delivers South of France loveliness with their broderie anglaise day dress. Small Black owned boutique Orchid Boheme nails country beauty. Either way you can’t go wrong with puff sleeves!
Bohemian Maxi- think summer nights in Ibiza. After a day out in the sun the last thing you want is a tight, sticky dress and so the flowing cut of this Free People dress is perfect for sunset drinks and dinner.
Breezy Beach Dress- something pretty but not too fussy since you’re too busy dipping your toes in the water to worry about a little sand. I adore this tie strap shift dress with the ruffle. Olana clothing was a discovery I made through friends who did their branding and website. They really believe in clothing made right and each piece has craftsmanship in every stitch.
1950s Shirt-Dress- Anyone want to host a garden party? Christy Dawn’s dresses are not only beautifully designed, they are also all handmade in Los Angeles out of deadstock that would otherwise go to waste in the fashion industry. They are at a higher price-point but for those looking for eco-luxury is a lovely option.
Sexy Slip Dress- Perfect for date night whether you’re twirling spaghetti at home or at a terrace café. House of CB London is famous for their sultry pieces and don’t break the bank, while BHLDN offers a sophisticated look perfect for a truly special evening.
Professional White Dress- to really impress on that interview or big presentation sans sweat stains. Cotton bouclé is a polished look, but this dress is far from boring with a bit of fun fringe. No one does workwear quite like MM La Fleur.
Comfy Day Dress- throw it on with some sneakers and take your biggest tote bag to the farmer’s market. I loved the square neckline in this dress from & Other Stories and the Madewell romper is a great option for anyone wanting the comfort of shorts and the ease of a dress.
Did you like these picks? Let me know if there is a style you are hunting for in the comments. Here’s to white dresses, summer strolls and picnics, as long as the weather is warm and the wine is flowing!
xx
