Every summer, there’s one dress trend that quietly takes over before you suddenly realise half the people you follow on Instagram are wearing it. This year, it’s broderie anglaise. To be honest, it never really went anywhere; it’s earned its place as one of those rare summer staples that comes back year after year without ever feeling tired.
But recently, I’ve noticed it everywhere. From creators whose wardrobes I save for outfit inspiration to a surprising number of editors turning up to the office in embroidered cotton dresses, it’s officially reached that point where I can’t scroll (or leave the house) without seeing one. Naturally, that sent me straight to H&M, a place that always gets summer dresses right, and after one browse through the new-in section, I realised the brand has quietly produced one of its strongest dress collections in years.
The appeal is pretty obvious once you start paying attention. Broderie anglaise has a way of making even the simplest dress interesting without relying on loud prints or loads of accessories. The embroidered cutwork gives the fabric texture, whilst the lightweight cotton keeps everything breathable on genuinely hot days. It’s the kind of dress you throw on with leather sandals and a basket bag and somehow still get asked where it’s from.
This season, H&M hasn’t stuck to just one version either. There are easy minidresses for weekends, elegant midis you’ll wear on repeat, sweeping maxis that look far more expensive than they are, halterneck styles that feel particularly current and simple sleeveless silhouettes you’ll reach for long after summer holidays are over. Whether you always buy white dresses or you’re tempted by butter yellow, bright green or classic black, you’re sure to find something that feels premium across the collection.
I’m trying very hard not to order them all, but a few have already made their way into my saved items, and I know exactly which one I’d buy first if my size starts disappearing. If you’ve also noticed broderie anglaise slowly taking over your feed, consider this your sign to lean into the trend. Below, I’ve rounded up the H&M pieces I’ve already bookmarked. Happy shopping.
Shop Our Favourite H&M Broderie Anglaise Dresses:
This went straight into my basket.
A black dress is unexpected in warm weather.
Cape dresses are the style to go for this summer.
If you want something with a pop of colour, opt for this green dress.
Add some wedges and a basket bag and you’re ready for a Euro summer.
Blue broderie dresses may have just become my favourite.
The slit on this dress makes it a standout.
I guarantee you’ll get so much wear out of this dress this season.
There are so many ways to style this blue option.
Hello, summer!
I can’t stop thinking about the cut-out detailing.
A summer staple if I ever saw one.
Yes to everything about this dress.
The halterneck style is incredibly elegant.
This could work for so many events in my summer calendar.
