Fashion

The Freshest Summer Dresses

With nothing but sun in the forecast, it's the perfect time to slip into a summer dress

By Janine Verreault /

Credit: Aritzia

Twelve dresses to add to your summer wish list

Aritzia Aden Dress, $59.99

It may look like a skirt and top, but the Aden from Artizia’s Babaton line is actually a femine frock. The A-line silk skirt (fully lined) and nipped-in stretchy waste is flattering to most figures.



Credit: Club Monaco

Club Monaco Myra Dress, $189.50

Club Monaco’s Myra Dress is as fresh as mint. Wear it with flats for a put-together daytime look, or throw on heels and you’re ready to go out for dinner. The pleated bodice adds just enough detail to make this one a standout.



Credit: Obakki

Obakki Sheath Dress With Center Front Seam, $156

This sheath dress from Obakki is perfect for a summer cocktail party. The front seams and stretch fabric act as corseting to show off your curves, while the slash pockets give it a casual elegance.



Credit: Banana Republic

Banana Republic Halter Shift Dress, $150

Draw inspiration from tropical waters with Banana Republic’s halter shift dress in “palm beach turquoise” – a great option for an evening barbecue or poolside cocktails.

Need the perfect bra for this dress? Check out these six summer lingerie essentials.



Credit: BCBG

BCBG Emilia Pointelle and Ottoman Dress, $155

Who says knits are just for winter? This pointelle dress from BCBG is summer-appropriate, work-appropriate (just throw on a blazer or cardigan) and can go straight from the office to dinner… or even Dîner en Blanc.



Credit: Ann Taylor Loft

Ann Taylor Loft Short Sleeve Lace Dress, $121

Ann Taylor Loft’s short-sleeved lace dress in night teal is obviously more appropriate for evening than day. The pretty lace and puffed sleeves make it super feminine, and it’s a great choice for an after-work event or dinner date.



Credit: Zara

Zara Flower Print Dress, $29.99

This super chic shift dress from Zara is a steal at under $30. The high-contrast tropical floral print and classic shape make it a perfect choice for a poolside party or backyard barbecue.



Credit: Nicole Bridger

Nicole Bridger Playful Dress, $124

The easy-breezy Playful jersey dress from Vancouver designer Nicole Bridger is a summer stunner in indigo (also availalbe in red, grey and black). Casual but stylish, you’ll find yourself pulling it out of the closet every weekend until summer ends.



Credit: J. Crew

J. Crew California Poppy Dress, $158 USD

The gorgeous print on J. Crew’s poppy dress is inspired by Moroccan medallions and works for both night and day. The A-line silhouette is figure-flattering and the silk will keep you feeling fresh.



Credit: Allison Wonderland

Allison Wonderland Tiber Dress

The Tiber Dress from Vancouver designer Alison Smith of Allison Wonderland is the perfect day dress. Throw it on and head to your local farmers market to look (and feel) cool all day long.



Credit: H&M

H&M Crinkled dress, $34.95

Outshine the sun in this brightly coloured floral crinkled dress from H&M. Details like butterfly sleeves, smocking and pearl buttons make this a flirty design from scooped neckline to rounded hemline.



Credit: Forever 21

Forever 21 Marled Midi Dress, $21.80

Midi skirts and dresses are a big trend this season and Forever 21’s marled midi dress is an inexpensive way to participate in the trend. Sleek and lightweight, this is an easy and sexy option for running around town or heading out in the evening.

Need shapewear for his dress? Check out these six summer lingerie essentials.