As InStyle editors, we're constantly on the hunt for the next big fashion trend. After spectating a great many runway shows — and street style spillover — not to mention, endlessly scrolling on TikTok, we're bringing you a panoply of summer dress trends that amount to a visual feast.

While some of these looks are fresh off the catwalk and may elicit an afternoon of shopping (note: you've been warned), others are repeat classics probably already hanging in your closet — but styled in surprising and delightful ways. 

From sheer white numbers to shirt-as-dress hybrids, keep scrolling for 14 summer dress outfits that showcase the season's best trends.

Crochet Fashion

It may seem counterintuitive, but knits are one of summer's hottest fashion obsessions. Thanks to Gen Z's penchant for all things grandma- and grandpa-related, stepping out in a crochet maxi dress this season will earn you major street style cred.

Unexpected Denim

A strapless midi dress goes the extra mile in an unexpected fabric like denim. Although inherently casual, you can dress up your denim by incorporating statement accessories, like pearl jewelry and neon-colored footwear, for starters.

To keep cool during summer, opt for clothing made from authentic, lightweight, and breathable materials. Denim, cotton, linen, and silk are all great options.

Embrace Hygge

No matter where this summer takes you, trust us when we say you'll want to keep a nap dress on standby. Comfortable and versatile, it works just as well for lazing around at home as it does for making the rounds at a midsummer fete.

Head-to-Toe White

Fashionable and functional, a white dress will give you an instant boost of elegance while also allowing you to beat the summer heat. Opt for yours in a sheer fabric (think: gauzy chiffon) because the naked dress is still trending — and there's no better season to wear it.

Floral Patterns

Feminine and fresh, florals are the quintessential summer print. When worn on a midi dress, you get a versatile look that's as appropriate for the office as it is for brunch.

While midi dresses often hit just below the knee or around mid-calf, those who are petite may find a shorter length (i.e. at the knee or just above) to be more flattering.

'90s "It Girl"

For fashion minimalists, a slip dress is a must for summer. To celebrate the season of fun and sun — and modernize this '90s garment — go with a vibrant color. Then, finish off your summer dress outfit with a knitted layer to add contrasting texture.

Make It Metallic

Hello, earthings. While summer is perhaps best known for bright and bold color choices, like neons. This season, it's metallics' time to shine (literally). Consider this an ode to throwback summer blockbusters such as 1996's Independence Day and 1997's Men in Black.

Flirty Frock

When all else fails, reach for your classic cotton frock. Not only is cotton breathable, making it ideal for the dog days of summer, but combining it with an on-trend bow detail puts the "fun" in functional. Best of all? This look carries well from day to night and can be dressed up or down with the help of a few key accessories.

Sporty Spice

This is athleisure like you've never seen it before. Reinvent your sporty separates by overlaying them with a mesh dress and then slipping on some strappy heels (optional but highly encouraged).

Retro '60s-Inspired

For days when you're feeling whimsical, a fun, colorful shift dress is the way to go. This psychedelic print will transport you to the late-1960s and reads "good vibes only."

Business Casual 2.0

Pants are highly overrated, don't you think? Come summertime, repurpose an oversized shirt by wearing it as a dress. Any color will do, but we're partial to this chartreuse green that looks like it was taken out of the dopamine dressing handbook.

Add Some Prep to Your Step

Perfectly attuned to the coastal aesthetics running rampant on TikTok, a striped cotton dress in shades of blue and white is well suited for summer holidays. Slip on an oversized button-down, and you'll be perfectly comfortable on sweltering sidewalks and in air-conditioned indoor spaces.

Layer with Linen

Silhouettes aside, a linen dress is a must-have for any summer wardrobe. If going with a longer hem, like a maxidress, leave some buttons undone for easy, breezy style. Throw on a linen blazer to complete your linen-on-linen look.

We suggest abandoning the notion you can wear linen without it creasing and embracing a softly rumpled look. If you're a wrinkle stickler, try a full, long skirt that's naturally a bit undone.

Fringetastic

If you can't make it to Coachella, why not bring festival season to you? One way of doing that, sartorially speaking, is by choosing a summer dress with a side of fringe. We're deeming it the city-slicker-on-holiday look.

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