I Live in Dresses in the Summer—5 Trend-Proof Brands I Always Come Back To

I live for the ease and comfort of a loose fit on the daily, so it's not completely surprising when I say summer dresses become my ultimate go-to when the temperature rises. Now, that's not to say that I don't appreciate the laid-back vibe of flowing trousers or the classic appeal of a crisp white tee, because I do, but dresses are just unbeatable for me. They offer the perfect balance of style and practicality, making it easy to look put-together without sacrificing comfort. My secret weapon for finding these perfect pieces? NET-A-PORTER, of course.

At the start of every summer, I do a little perusing on the site for pieces to add to my minimalist wardrobe that will work year after year, and this time, it delivered—and then some. I love how a great dress can make me feel instantly polished with just one piece. Whether I'm heading to a casual brunch, a day at the beach or an evening gathering, a well-chosen dress always fits the bill. I've come to realise that dresses not only keep me cool and comfortable but also save me so much time when getting ready—no need to worry about matching tops and bottoms; a dress is an outfit in itself. Plus, they make packing for holidays a breeze—just roll and you're good to go. From understated classics to vibrant prints, the luxury retailer's curated collection of pieces from a few brands that do dresses so well has caught my eye. There's something for my every summer mood.

Which brands have stood out to me, you ask? Well, there are five. Dôen captures that dreamy, vintage-inspired aesthetic I adore, with pieces like the Piper Ruffled Ramie Mini Dress (£377). Meanwhile, Faithfull The Brand, known for its bohemian charm and travel-inspired designs, is my top pick for casual, laid-back looks. Tove and Matteau offer pared-back designs perfect for those days when I want to keep things simple yet stylish; and for occasions that call for colour galore, Farm Rio has me covered.

Whether I'm in the mood for a classic silhouette or a splash of colour, I can always count on these brands to deliver exactly what I need. Below are the dresses that are getting me excited about summer.

Shop NET-A-PORTER's Best Summer Dress Brands:

1. Dôen

DÔEN

Piper Belted Ruffled Ramie Mini Dress

£377

This soft white dress features delicate lace details and a flattering tie waist. It's perfect for leisurely days when I want a simple yet pretty dress.

DÔEN

Allene Linen Midi Dress

£326

With its relaxed fit, linen material and button-down front, this dress ticks so many boxes.

DÔEN

Fiora Broderie Anglaise-Trimmed Silk-Satin Maxi Dress

£571

This elegant white style features subtle embroidery that offers a touch of sophistication. It's also a perfect option for any bride-to-be.

DÔEN

Ischia Shirred Floral-Print Cotton-Voile Midi Dress in Yellow

£372

A beautiful floral print that screams summer. The ruffled sleeves give it a boho vibe.

DÔEN

Venus Corded Lace-Trimmed Floral-Print Silk-Crepe Midi Dress

£512

The lace detailing and playful print make this dress a fun, flirty option for any sunny day.

2. Faithfull The Brand

FAITHFULL THE BRAND

La Canella Shirred Checked Linen Midi Dress

£309

This minimalist striped dress will transition seamlessly from day to night with a change of accessories.

FAITHFULL THE BRAND

Messina Shirred Linen Midi Dress

£309

I'm very into shirred designs at the moment, and this dress is easy, comfy and cool—the kind you'll find yourself throwing on all through the summer.

FAITHFULL THE BRAND

Ciele Open-Back Linen-Trimmed Open-Knit Cotton Maxi Dress

£450

Not only is pale blue trending this summer, but the open back and knit texture add points of interest.

FAITHFULL THE BRAND

+ Net Sustain Santiana Lenzing Ecovero-Satin Maxi Dress

£289£203

This stunning brown maxi dress is perfect for those spontaneous summer evening plans.

FAITHFULL THE BRAND

Geriba Smocked Linen Midi Dress

£310

Everyone needs a classic white dress in their summer wardrobe.

3. Tove

TOVE

Alex Strapless Wool-Blend Midi Dress

£895

The sleek bandeau shape is so chic, and the mint colourway offers something different yet understated.

TOVE

Aubree Ruched Silk-Satin Maxi Dress

£995£597

The moment. This fluid satin dress is my top choice for those dressier occasions.

TOVE

Rayssa Strapless Stretch-Jersey Maxi Dress

£1000

Can't you just see yourself floating around in this strapless dress for a garden party? I adore it.

TOVE

Raquel Stretch-Silk Cloqué Maxi Dress

£995

With its flowing cut and trending pale yellow shade, this dress will bring a fresh, crisp feel to your summer wardrobe.

TOVE

Quinn Tiered Checked Embroidered Cotton Halterneck Maxi Dress

£695

The bow-tie back on this white halterneck style makes it feel so modern and elegant. I'll be wearing this to many a sunny brunch.

4. Farm Rio

FARM RIO

Papaya Salad Knit-Trimmed Euroflax Linen and Lenzing Ecovero-Blend Midi Dress

£320

The vibrant print and playful design make this a standout choice to inject some fun into your summer wardrobe. You couldn't not take it on holiday.

FARM RIO

Gathered Linen-Blend Maxi Dress

£310

I can see this with a pair of wedge espadrilles and a raffia tote for the ultimate beachside drinks look.

FARM RIO

Bloom Garden Bead-Embellished Embroidered Knit-Trimmed Linen Maxi Dress

£340

Some simple leather slides and oversized sunglasses are all this dress needs.

FARM RIO

One-Shoulder Belted Gathered Floral-Print Satin Maxi Dress

£340

One for the maximalists who aren't afraid to make a statement.

FARM RIO

Richelieu Tiered Broderie Anglaise Cotton Midi Dress

£380

Sometimes it works to just keep it simple, and it doesn't get any more classic than a white broderie midi.

5. Matteau

MATTEAU

+ Net Sustain Organic Cotton and Silk-Blend Halterneck Midi Dress

£472

This elegant strapless number went straight on my wish list. I'm already imagining wearing it for dinner in Florence this summer.

MATTEAU

+ Net Sustain Shirred Organic Cotton Mini Dress in Green

£357

The soft romantic details and muted colour make this a comfortable and cute choice for everyday wear.

MATTEAU

+ Net Sustain One-Shoulder Organic Cotton and Silk-Blend Maxi Dress

£438

Just slip on flat sandals for a day look and switch to some strappy heels for the evening.

MATTEAU

+ Net Sustain Gathered Organic Cotton Midi Dress

£455

This beautiful midi dress is made in Australia from organic cotton.

MATTEAU

+ Net Sustain Pleated Broderie Anglaise Organic Cotton Maxi Dress

£487

The inverted pleats and broderie anglaise flowers make this otherwise simple black dress so classy.