Summer is the season of sunshine, outdoor events, and making the most of the warm weather. It's also the perfect time to update your wardrobe with an array of stylish and versatile summer dresses. Whether you're attending a garden party, heading to the beach or enjoying a casual brunch with friends, there's a summer dress for every occasion. 

At Beales, we understand the importance of finding the perfect summer dress to keep you comfortable and fashionable throughout the season, and we're here to help you navigate the vast world of summer dress styles, trends, and silhouettes.

1. Popular Summer Dress Styles & When to Wear Them

From elegant maxi dresses to playful sundresses, there's a vast array of styles perfect for various occasions. Here are a few popular summer dress styles and when to wear them:

  • Maxi Dresses: Long, flowing maxi dresses are perfect for a more formal event or an evening dinner. Pair them with sandals for a casual garden party or with heels for a dressier affair.
  • Sundresses: Ideal for casual daytime events, sundresses are light and effortless, making them perfect for beach trips, picnics, or shopping excursions.
  • Wrap Dresses: Flattering for various body types, wrap dresses are a versatile option suitable for many occasions, from brunch to a daytime wedding.
  • Fit and Flare: This style is ideal for cocktail events or afternoon tea, as they offer a polished look while maintaining a breezy and comfortable fit.

2. Dressing for Your Body Type: Tips & Tricks

Finding a flattering summer dress is crucial for feeling confident and comfortable. Consider these tips for selecting a dress that accentuates your body type:

  • Pear-shaped: Opt for dresses that highlight your waist and flare out at the hips, such as A-line designs or wrap-style dresses.
  • Hourglass: Show off your curves with fitted styles that cinch in at the waist, like tailored sheath dresses or form-fitting wrap dresses.
  • Apple-shaped: Focus on creating balance by selecting styles that draw attention to your legs, like shift dresses or high-low hemlines.
  • Petite: Choose dresses with vertical lines or patterns to elongate your frame and opt for above-the-knee lengths to create the illusion of height.
  • Plus-sized: Look for V-necklines and empire waistlines to accentuate your best features, opting for flowy fabrics and prints that provide visual balance.

3. Summer Colour Trends & Patterns

Embrace the season with vibrant colours and bold prints in your summer wardrobe. Some popular summer colour trends and patterns include:

  • Bright Shades: Make a statement with bold hues like eye-catching yellow, rich cobalt blue or vivacious coral.
  • Pastels: For a more subtle, romantic look, opt for pastel shades like blush pink, lavender, or soft mint green.
  • Floral Prints: A classic choice for summer, floral prints can range from dainty and delicate blooms to large and bold blossoms.
  • Stripes and Polka Dots: Classic patterns like stripes and polka dots add a sense of playfulness to your summer wardrobe, making them perfect for casual day events.

4. Accessorising Your Summer Dress

Complete your summer dress ensemble with carefully chosen accessories to enhance your look and add a touch of personal style:

  • Footwear: Depending on the occasion, opt for sandals, wedges, or heels that complement your dress's colour and style.
  • Jewellery: Adorn your outfit with understated, delicate jewellery items or statement pieces that accentuate your dress's neckline or sleeves.
  • Bags: Choose a handbag or clutch that complements your dress, considering both size and colour to maintain balance and style.
  • Hair & Makeup: Keep your makeup light and fresh for daytime events, and consider a bolder look for evening wear. Experiment with braids, waves, or up-dos to complement your dress's neckline and style.

Conclusion:

With a plethora of styles, patterns, and colours to choose from, finding the perfect summer dress for any occasion is both exciting and rewarding. By considering your body type, the event's dress code, and the season's current trends, you can select a stunning and comfortable summer dress that will make you feel confident and fashionable all season long. 

At Beales, we are proud to offer an extensive range of stylish and high-quality summer dresses to suit every preference and budget. Let our online department store guide you on your journey to discovering your ideal summer wardrobe, ensuring you step out in style for every summer event and adventure.

December 17, 2023 — Paul Masterson