Summer is the season of the sundress, from classic, beach-ready options to put-together office outfit heroes. But while the piece rules our wardrobes whenever the temperatures rise, every year has its fair share of standout variations that keep our warm-weather style feeling fresh. This summer, we're seeing unexpected textures, playful prints, and decadent details take center stage, allowing you to live your fantasy whether your seasonal mood board leans more towards Mediterranean paradise, garden party elegance, or coastal bliss.
1. Marine Life Motifs
As you probably know, the fisherman aesthetic is one of 2025's biggest trends so far, and the trend has gone literal for summer with prints of sardines, lobsters, and more showing up on our favorite sundresses. The look brings a whimsical vibe to your summer style, be it for vacation or for a fun afternoon of brunch and shopping.
Styling Tip: Pair your dress with on-theme accessories, like fisherman sandals and net-inspired handbags, to take the playful seasonal energy to the next level.
2. Maxi Magic
According to New York City-based stylist Audree Kate López, maxi dresses will be everywhere this summer. “Maxi dresses have been at the forefront of dress trends the past year, and this summer, you’ll see a mix of printed, cotton, linen, and silk styles,” she says. This is one of my go-to silhouettes for summer because they’re breathable, loose, and you can wear it as a beach cover-up or to a nice dinner.”
Styling Tip: Maxi dresses might seem more formal, but López assures us they go with everything. “[They can be] styled with strappy sandals, sneakers, or even heels,” she says.
3. Polka Dots
Retro-inspired polka dots are back as one of the biggest patterns of the season, including on some of the sweetest summer dresses. Whether you go for classic black-and-white or a trending summer color like baby blue, this look is sure to make you smile.
Styling Tip: Lean into the nostalgic energy by pairing your maxi dress with other retro-inspired favorites, like cat-eye sunglasses and ballet flats.
4. Mini Moment
Mini skirts, on the other hand, are always a head-turner. Playful and glamorous, mini skirts offer endless possibilities for casual outings and special occasions. From brunch with friends to weddings and rooftop parties, mini skirts can be worn with ease – and best of all, they can easily transition from day to night.
Styling Tip: Like maxi dresses, mini dresses are easy to dress up and down with a little accessorizing. For a more casual look, opt for fashion-forward sneakers, for a dressier appearance, consider platform strappy sandals or chunky heels.
5. Amalfi Aesthetic
Summer always inspires a bit of escapism, and this year, the Amalfi coast's abundant lemons and retro vibes are at the forefront. Next time you need a dress for a sweltering day, you can't go wrong with a playfully chic citrus print or a breezy butter yellow midi in a vintage-inspired cut.
Styling Tip: To feel like an old Hollywood star filming a romance movie, go full glam with the accessories.
6. Drop Waists
You may have noticed that waistlines are looking notably lower these days, on denim and dresses alike. If you hate low-rise jeans, don’t discount the drop waist silhouette that has made a resurgence this year.
Styling Tip: The drop-waist dress is another versatile silhouette you can adapt to any occasion. Whether it's a sleek pointed-toe flat or a laid-back fisherman sandal paired with socks, this combination adds a chic perspective to the statement dress.
7. Eyelet Details
Looking to add a dainty element to your summer dressing? Eyelet dresses are making a major appearance this summer. With delicate patterns and lightweight fabric, they’re a go-to choice for all warm-weather outings.
Styling Tip: Eyelet is a versatile textile pattern that can work for casual brunches as well as slightly dressier dinner parties.
8. Voluminous Silhouettes
Ready to feel like a princess? Slip into a voluminous silhouette for a dramatic, on-trend moment. Leaning into this trend can be as simple as donning a maxi tent dress, puff-sleeve mini, or ruffled strapless dress. No matter what you choose, it’s about the oversized drama of it all.
Styling Tip: It’s like playing dress-up and works perfectly with an opposing shoe, like chunky loafers or super strappy sandals.
9. Subtly Sheer
For summer 2025, see-through dresses, jelly shoes, and other translucent pieces will be all the rage. This year, we're seeing slightly more toned-down looks with less see-through. Even so, see-through is still here, so whatever you fancy, you'll find it.
Style tips: Sheer and lace dresses are timeless and can be worn as a beach cover-up or paired with briefs, mini shorts, and your favorite bralette. For accessories, pair with a white clutch and thin-strap heels to channel the see-through trend for summer.
