17 Best White Dresses For Summer 2026, Reviewed

LBDs get a lot of press. But a summer staple that is too-often-forgotten and underestimated? White dresses. They may be a ‘no-no’ when it comes to wedding guest dresses – unless you’re the bride, of course – and I hear your concerns about obvious spills.

But I’d argue there is nothing chicer than a white dress, be that a lace white mini dress, a long-sleeve summer dress or a tiered floaty dress, paired with a raffia bag and sunglasses. Whatever the style, the light layer (both in terms of its fabric and colour) can take you from the office to Wimbledon and onto a garden party after that.

In fact, it’s the one summer dress I search for first when rebuilding my warm weather capsule wardrobe, knowing that I’ll call on it for both my Euro summer travels and any beach vacays.

And while maximalism is back in a big way — jewellery maxxing, unexpected colour pairings and oversized puff sleeves are everywhere RN — one thing guaranteed to grace the runway is a white dress.

So, whatever trend you’re leaning into this summer, be that boho or cottagecore, there’s a white dress to work into your rotation — and I know, because I’ve tracked down 17 white dresses, including linen shift dresses, short-sleeve midaxi dresses, cream wrap dresses and lace-trimmed sleeveless slip dresses, I’d happily add to my wardrobe right now.

And for those seeking spring wedding guest dresses, either finished in tulle or mesh, or strapless and backless, or one-shoulder summer wedding guest dresses with a lace trim, we’ve rounded up the best of those too.

Ahead, the best white dresses to shop this summer, according to a fashion writer: