Most of us spend all year dreaming of sunshine, envisaging our best summer selves looking tanned, chic and carefree. In the UK, when a heatwave hits and we are likely sans aircon and a sea breeze, the reality of summer hits with a dull—and sweaty—thud.
Whether you’re a stifled city-dweller gasping for air on the tube, or having a marginally better time somewhere less densely populated, you’ll no doubt be feeling the effects of the hottest British weather we’ve experienced in decades. All of this to say: it’s time to get prepared. And, no, I’m not suggesting you should go out and invest in AC, but simply to arm yourself with a breezy throw-on summer dress for when that next heatwave inevitably rolls around.
Thankfully, we’re talking seriously low-maintenance looks—typically unstructured smocks that are voluminous in shape, generous in fit and constructed from something light and airy like cotton. For those who prefer a little more coverage, the trapeze maxi is a great alternative that’s no less airy, so long as you’re plumping for natural fibres. And those braving the stuffy commute to take advantage of that sweet office aircon, you can still keep cool in cotton and linen, just opt for smarter, more structured silhouettes and longer hemlines.
From Dôen’s cult cotton midis, to H&M floor-sweeping linen dresses, here’s our edit of the best heatwave-appropriate dresses to keep on rotation when it’s too hot to think for yourself.
Shop The Best Heatwave Dresses
I’m calling it—this rich-looking H&M linen-blend will be out of stock by next week. Pair with sandals and a raffia tote, and you’re ready to face the heat.
Dôen needs no introduction. Not only is the brand’s covetable Emmaretta dress flattering, feminine and instantly-recognisable, it’s made of the breeziest cotton-gauze for extra heatwave points.
COS’ midi is made from a cotton-linen blend, which means its breathable, but weighty enough to hold its shape. We love the drop-waist pleat and lemon hue.
This midi dress is a heatwave must-have thanks to that billowy silhouette. It’s great for chilling, but you can also dress it up for dinner with lashings of gold jewellery, or layer it over a white T-shirt for the office.
The fact Abercrombie & Fitch has an entire line of dresses dedicated to going bra-free is music to my ears—because no one needs extra underpinnings during a heatwave.
Matteau was once solely a resortbrand, so its whole ethos is rooted in chic hot-weather staples. This maxi is made from organic cotton and features an ultra-stretchy shirred bodice that allows for multiple styling options.
Made from 100% cotton, Zara’s midi dress has the most striking fit-and-flare shape. The high neck keeps things feeling smarter, but the low back and spaghetti strap ties showcase just a little bit of skin.
Personally, when it’s hot out, I live in my If Only If nighties. Luckily, the brand has thought ahead this summer and dropped its cult Clover nightwear in day dress form, so you can be comfortable and cool if you really must leave the house.
Our most affordable pick in this edit, H&M is coming through with its take on the viral tablecloth dress. It’s mini in length, made from 100% cotton and topped with spaghetti straps for all your heatwave needs.
Dôen’s Almadia dress has become a bit of a cult favourite this summer, thanks to those crochet trims. It’s one of those throw-it-on smocks that looks and feels so comfortable, it makes the wearer look instantly effortless.
A smarter option for heatwave dressing, Reformation’s Fraise dress is made from a slightly weightier linen to enhance its flared silhouette.
There’s nothing worse than dressing for work during a heatwave. This St Agni midi is solving your officewear woes with its smart silhouette and crisp poplin cotton.
Stay cool, calm and collected in this chic linen mini shift dress from COS.
Aussie brand Posse’s linen staples are a collection mainstay. The Emma dress looks like a simple shift upon first glance, but it’s cleverly darted and cinches at the back to create an elegant hourglass shape.
ME+EM’s take on summer dressing is, naturally, polished, which makes this lace-panelled, cheesecloth midi perfect for work and play.
With Nothing Underneath’s Sloane mini is everything we’re looking for in a heatwave dress, and then some. It’s 100% linen, features a flattering v-neck and works across occasions—from the beach to the office, with strategic styling tweaks.
Bali-based label (with an Australian founder to boot) Faithfull knows a hot weather wardrobe. Plus, all of its breathable cotton and linen dresses are B-corp certified.
Fresh in at H&M is this polka-dot dress, made from airy cotton. The sweetheart bodice and pleated skirt panels create a playful, retro silhouette.
Most of the pieces in this edit are daytime dresses made from natural fibres, to ensure maximum breathability. But, thankfully, parties don’t stop just because there’s a heatwave in town. If you’re looking for sleek eveningwear, opt for a fluid slip with spaghetti straps.
This white mini dress looks like a vintage gem. Made from cotton-gauze, it’s panelled with intricate lace and topped with crochet cups. The beaded tie straps and cutout at the back give this number a beachy feel, but you could totally wear it during a heatwave in the city.
