The past year may have been all about the trouser, but I believe dresses are still the most reliable wardrobe mainstay around. They can take you from working week to weekend fun and be styled in a multitude of ways for myriad occasions. After all, it’s not like you could repurpose your jeans for a wedding guest outfit, but you can absolutely alter the aesthetic of a dress with the addition of a belt or the switch of a shoe.
The reason I always look forward to the start of a new season is the prospect of unearthing the trends that await for it. I’ve already begun charting the need-to-know jewellery, boots and jeans for the year ahead; now, it’s time to turn our attention to the overarching dress trends of 2023. I’ve scoured the runways—everywhere from Prada to Coperni—to bring you the most noteworthy frocks.
From the cool take on prints to an ingenious way to wear florals (it’s not what you think), breathtaking embellishments to hem and neckline updates, scroll on to discover the 10 dress trends set to take over 2023.
Style Notes: A recurring dress trend on the S/S 23 runways was asymmetry; there were step hemlines aplenty, but perhaps the chicest interpretation is asymmetric sleeves, as seen at Rejina Pyo.
This shade of green never goes out of style.
Try layering this over tailored trousers or leggings for a different spin.
Style Notes: Florals are to spring what shearling is to winter: a non-negotiable. However, if you thought the only way to wear them was by way of prints, think again; designers such as Carolina Herrera opted to adorn everything from tops and necklaces to, yes, dresses with pretty corsages.
The colour! The neckline! The corsages! This dress ticks off so many trends in one go.
This will look incredible styled with an oversized blazer and slingback heels.
Style Notes: Draping was a major dress trend in 2022, and designers continued their exploration of these dramatic silhouettes into 2023 by way of dresses. Look for dresses with cascading trains, as seen at Coperni, or opt for statement sleeves on minis.
So chic, no one will assume this is high street.
I know this dress is going to be a hit in 2023.
Style Notes: Slip dresses have proven themselves to be pretty timeless over the past few years and, for 2023, a subtle update keeps them feeling fresh; additions of pretty, delicate lace.
I love the slips from this independent designer.
This best-selling Reformation dress comes in so many colours, some even in a velvet finish.
Style Notes: This season sees the return of countless, ’80s-inspired fashion trends—think lamé fabrications and neon hues—but the most stylish interpretation has to be puffball hems, which were prevalent on skirts and dresses alike.
I’m legitimately obsessed with this dress (and brand).
Just add jumbo metal earrings to complete your ’80s style metamorphosis.
Style Notes: Sheer dresses were perhaps the biggest trend on the S/S 23 runways, with everyone from Bottega Veneta, ACNE Studios and Prada showcasing transparent frocks of their own. Me? I’m partial to the black and white styles, akin to this look from AMI.
This will work just as well on the beach as it will in the city.
The crystals are a gorgeous touch.
Style Notes: Ombré or tie-dye, call it what you will; the important thing is that you consider investing in the blurred, watercoloured pieces that will no doubt dominate the market this year thanks to the likes of Zimmermann, Jonathan Simkhai and Ferragamo.
Such a beautiful palette.
The independent, size-inclusive brand Beyoncé is obsessed with.
Style Notes: Although they never really go out of style, it would be fair to say that off-the-shoulder necklines haven’t been as predominant as they were a few seasons ago. However, that’s that’s all about to change, as some of the sleekest 2023 dresses have a full view of the décolletage.
Beyond beautiful.
This dress can be worn on or off the shoulder.
Style Notes: While sparkly dresses make a comeback every party season, their shelf life has been extended significantly, with more designers presenting embellished, sequinned pieces for spring than ever before. The key to making this trend feel fresh is all in the finish of the sequins; the more liquid-looking the shine, the better.
This dress is an Instagram favourite; even Hailey Bieber has worn it.
Look for large sequins for another S/S 23 update.
Style Notes: The ’90s aesthetic is still going strong, with tube dresses becoming something of a hero item for those who subscribe to it. Look for tube dresses with next to no detailing to channel the runway mood.
Style this just like the model; with only the slightest hint of jewellery and black accessories.
I know this will be a go-to for influencers attending weddings this year.
