This Controversial Dress Silhouette Is Trending for Summer—And We’re Not Mad (2024)

The arrival of a new season means one thing: It’s time to obsess over the 2024 dress trends we’re seeing everywhere. Sure, we’re also excited about longer days, warmer temps, and any chance to set our status to OOO, but all of that only gets better with some new summer dresses in tow. No matter what you’re looking forward to this season—say, countless weddings or a trip to the shore—these dress trends will get you through it all looking your best.

Glamour’s summer dress trends wish list

• The Perfect White Dress: Reformation Magnolia Linen Dress, $248
• The Wedding Guest Dress: Hutch Sleeveless Cutout Midi Dress, $258
• The Vacation Dress: Exlura Square-Neck Minidress, $49
• The Statement Dress: Allina Liu Terra Set, $310
• The Polished Midi: Zesica Summer Swing Midi Dress, $53
• The Strapless Dress: By Malene Birger Marciella Dress, $250
• The Off-the-Shoulder Dress: Old Navy Cold Shoulder Maxi Swing Dress, $55
• The Linen Dress: Banana Republic European Linen Maxidress, $200
• The Comfy Dress: J.Crew Drop-Waist Midi Dress, $140
• The Eyelet Dress: Madewell Sweetheart Linen-Blend Dress, $138

After appearing on almost every major spring-summer runway, white dresses are officially must-buys for the months ahead. Stretchy tank dresses and breezy eyelet numbers are just as low-key, trendy, and easy to style, especially if you’re packing a suitcase.

Bold prints are also on the menu, as are puffy silhouettes and sheer dresses—a key 2024 fashion trend that’s only getting stronger as we head further into the year. Once-controversial drop-waist designs are also back in the zeitgeist, and we’re obsessed with their casual elegance; they’re also easier to style than you might remember (and readily available on Amazon). Ready to get your summer capsule wardrobe in order? These are the of-the-moment dresses to invest in now, according to style editors.

1. Little white dresses

White dresses always look their best this time of year, but they’re especially trendy right now, given that Prada, Tory Burch, Tove, and many more labels showed stark white styles for summer. They’re great for anything—think backyard celebrations, date nights, and rooftop soirees. And there’s an option in any silhouette and at every price point, from Reformation’s under-$250 stunner to Zesica’s $50 Amazon gem. Many could even double as low-key bridal looks, should summer nuptials be in your future.

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2. Drop-waist silhouettes

Popularized in the 1920s and revived in the ’60s and ’00s, drop-waist dresses are officially back in fashion, thanks to brands like Alaïa, Sandy Liang, and Mirror Palais. We’re excited to give the look another go, seeing as it elongates the body and gives off a sort of modern-day princess vibe. Whether you go with a stretchy pick or something more structured, try pairing your dress with the shoes of the season: mesh ballet flats or slingback heels.

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3. Vibrant, expressive prints

This summer, more is more. Let your outfit do the talking with these eye-catching prints, which approach florals with the colorful intensity of an acid trip. The best part of this trend, at least to us, is that there’s no one silhouette associated with it—you’re free to go as breezy or covered-up as you’d like, depending on your mood. The only requirement? Have fun.

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4. Easy tank dresses

If you live in tank tops come high summer, you need a few tank dresses in your warm-weather rotation. Some look like longline tanks for that trendy tenniscore vibe, others feature gathered skirts for a more elevated look. Either way, though, this is one of the easiest ways to wear as little fabric as possible while still looking presentable.

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5. Pumped-up volume

Conventional wisdom would have you believe that “flattering” means “body-skimming”—but thanks to the recent rise of Scandi-girl styling, that rule has been flipped on its head. The fashion world is obsessed with voluminous dresses, which popped up in the spring collections at Cecilie Bahnsen, Molly Goddard, and Carolina Herrera. Puffy sleeves, bubble skirts, and babydoll silhouettes are the dramatic, ultrafeminine details your summer wardrobe is missing. (Style your picks with athletic sneakers for Copenhagen bonus points.)

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6. Sheer numbers

Sheer materials have been the hottest thing in fashion for a few seasons now, and the trend shows no sign of slowing down. Before you stop us, let’s get something straight: This isn’t about baring it all (unless you’re in the mood to free the nipple). Instead, labels like Prada, Proenza Schouler, Chanel, and Simone Rocha played with sheer layers for summer, mastering the art of showing just enough skin. Try your hand at the trend with these picks, which either feature strategic sheer elements or would pair well with your nicest underwear.

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7. Eyelet dresses

After a few seasons out of the spotlight, we expect eyelets to make a major return in 2024. Preppy and romantic, the details add ease to any summer dress—and also allow for all-important airflow. Try an eyelet minidress for your next sweltering outdoor occasion, then switch into a longer, off-the-shoulder option for chillier evenings.

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8. Preppy stripes

Preppy fashion is having a major moment right now, meaning that stripes are also along for the ride. The summery print is incredibly easy to style; it looks just as great with walking sandals as it does with white sneakers or comfortable heels. Stripes are also perfect for seaside escapes, calling to mind classic coastal style; if you’re headed to a beach this season, make sure you have at least one of these picks in your suitcase.

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