Floral V-Neck Midaxi Tiered Dress
Whether you’re socialising with friends or going on holiday, make sure you’re summer ready with easy, versatile, stylish dresses.
Lisa Illis, Head of Design at M&S Womenswear comments: “Our print designers work close to emerging trends and can reflect the changing demand and desires of our customers. Alongside oversized and abstract florals, we’re seeing more interest across geometric and abstract prints, as well as woodblocks, ikat, the perennial spot and ombré designs, which are trending and can be found across our SS23 collections.”
Caley Henry, M&S Fashion Buyer and Insider shares her four favourite prints you’ll be seeing on summer dresses this year as well as advice on how to style them…
Fabulous Florals
Florals are a go-to summer trend and with Google searches for “flower dress women” up by 150% it’s clear to see the popularity of this print.
Caley says: “Floral designs will always remain popular as it is such a versatile print that comes in so many different variations. From oversized peonies, abstract designs and romantic rose prints, this season we see a huge array of floral designs that add a contemporary edge to dresses for all occasions. Complete your look with chunky lace-up sandals and trainers or use a colour from the print and add accessories to match.”
Polka Dots and Stripes
Looking to add a Polka dot print to your wardrobe? You are not alone, as Pinterest insights reveal an increase of 112% in search interest for the term “polka dot dress”.
Caley says: “The polka dot is a timeless design and creates an effortless look across any silhouette. Stripes can create an elongated silhouette, with a variety of designs to pick from. If you don’t like all-over bold patterns or prints, add spotted or striped items to plain colour-block items. Or experience with accessories for a subtle approach.”
Cupro Rich Printed Midaxi T-Shirt Dress
Animal print
With Google searches for “animal print maxi dress” +190% over the last month, try switching your look up with the ‘new neutral’ by delving into these colour choices and prints.
Caley says: “Start with a single statement piece: If you’re new to the animal print trend or prefer a more subtle approach, begin by incorporating a single statement piece into your outfit. This could be a top, a skirt, a pair of shoes, or even an accessory like a handbag or scarf”
“I love bright neon animal prints, especially across occasion dress as it creates a striking and fun look; this pink animal print dress. Pair with shoes and an effortless denim jacket and complete your bold look by adding an oversized pair of sunglasses and statement earrings.”
Printed V-Neck Midaxi Waisted Dress
Crochet
Making a significant comeback in recent years, from runway shows to street style, the crochet trend is having a moment – ‘#crochetdress’ has reached 692K views on TikTok in the last 7 days.
Caley says: “With varying stitch styles, the finely knitted detail of crochet-inspired woven items lends itself perfectly to geometric and abstract patterns. From chevron stripes to quirky waved designs to fun embroidered prints, this style is perfect for a statement look.
“To style this look at the beach, opt for a crochet dress over swimwear for a relaxed, boho-chic aesthetic look. Crochet-inspired pieces can also double up as city-wear too. Style with jeans or linen trousers for a super cool look and add in subtle accessories into your outfit such as a crochet or macrame style bag that doubles up as a great beach bag too.”
