There are few wardrobe thrills quite like the first time of the year you’re able to wear a dress without freezing your (lack of) pants off. And runways promised some treats in store for our dress shopping this spring. Enjoy responsibly (read: with tights and a cardi) for now, but soon we’ll be able to dress up layer-less and “ gasp! “ with bare legs. Read on for our top five dress picks for when that day finally arrives.
Little White Dress
White is one of the top trends for spring/summer and where better to put it into practice than on a ladylike white dress? Lace with peekaboo cutouts will create an interesting contrast with demure sex appeal, or stick with a classic high-neck A-line and make Jackie O proud.
Show off your feminine side with BCBG’s Heidi Lace and Gauze Dress, $238.
Sheer
If you’re looking to up the risqué© factor in your good-girl spring dresses, take sheer for a spin. A long chiffon skirt (worn with shorts or a micro-mini underneath, of course) promises a creative way to show off some leg. Also try a hint of sheer in a dress with a see-through back or straps.
Try Forever 21’s Lace Yoke Posy Dress, $27.80.
Maxi Dresses
Speaking as a petite, this dress isn’t for everyone. But if ever there was a time to try out the maxi, it’s this season. Maxi dresses are everywhere for spring/summer and designers are getting even more creative. They’re no longer worn as all-encompassing patterns (as was often the case previously). Many maxis now sport ruffles or flares that start at the hips instead of the torso. Accessorize with a few skinny belts if you’re worried about being swallowed up and maxi-mize (sorry, it had to be said) your style.
Go for the 70s look with H&M’s Grey Maxi Dress, $19.95.
Ballet skirt
A dress with a full, swishy ballet skirt is the perfect balance between classic and modern. The top half of the dress can be as dressed up or toned-down as you want, and the same goes for the ballet skirt. The ballet dress promises plenty of drama on the bottom half, but you can punch it up with a sexy slit or sheer layers if you’re looking to bring male passerby to their knees.
Check out Zara’s Red Flared Skirt Dress, $59.90.
Minimalist
Returning to the legendary Jackie O style, she’d be proud to see the minimalist dresses on the runways this season. High necklines and simple sleeveless dresses have been seen in bright colours like canary yellow, but if you want to pay true homage to the minimalist trend (and guarantee an appropriate-for-all-occasions dress simultaneously), stick to a classic colour like ivory.
Channel your inner Jackie O with Anthropologie’s Besotted Dress, $138.
