For some reason, Arket has never been my go-to for summer dresses. This may be partly due to the fact that I don’t really wear many dresses, but it’s also due to the fact that this high-street store is, in my opinion, at its strongest in the winter with its winning selection of cosy layers and stylish outwear. But this season, I might be about to change my tune because Arket has dropped the perfect summer dress edit, which may even appeal to the most frock-phobic among us.
Far from the pretty florals and fit-and-flare styles of your average high-street dress edit, Arket’s clean-lined approach to the wardrobe staple has inexorably drawn me in. There are plenty of throw-on-and-go smocks to be found, and I have a particular soft spot for this colourful iteration thanks to its sculptural sleeves and cute tie fastenings. I’m also enjoying the subtle throwback references, as seen in the lace-up detailing of this linen tunic and the ’90s-inspired square neckline of the brand’s cream cotton slip. Both will look just as good with sandals and a tote bag in the city as they will over a bikini on a sunny staycation. I also appreciate the odd deviation from Arket’s minimalist cause via unexpected bold prints that are dotted throughout the collection: Think a leopard-print mini and a geometric-print shirt dress. Scroll down to see and shop my full edit of Arket’s best summer dress drop to date.
