Since the official start of summer, I can count on one hand the amount of times I’ve worn a pair of jeans, and so strong is my commitment to embracing the seasonal aesthetic that even a closed-toe shoe feels like too much. I’ve even worn sandals in the drizzle (sad, but true). The truth is, there’s something about summer dressing that calls for stripping things back—both literally and figuratively.
When the good old British weather does eventually pull through and we have a good run of sunny, blue skies and warm days, the last thing you want to do is plan complicated outfits. So, it might be stating the obvious, but the right formula is the key to an easy styling win.
What do fashion’s best dressed wear when summer rolls around? It goes without saying, but you’ll find a good pair of sandals in every well-balanced summer wardrobe, and the right pair can be worn with dozens of different outfits, especially a pair of versatile flats. And right now it would seem that everyone is wearing sandals with one classic piece in particular, and it’s likely you already have one in your wardrobe. Enter, the white summer dress.
Simple, chic and always effective, the white-dress-and-sandals combo is the effortless, throw-on-and-go staple that we’ve been wearing forever, and it’s still top of the list for celebrities, editors and influencers alike. Whether you prefer bandeau, slip, puff-sleeved, mini or sweeping maxi dresses, there’s a style for everyone. Just add a pair of sandals and you’re ready to go.
Below, you’ll see how some our favourite content creators are wearing their white dresses and sandals, and keep scrolling for our pick of the best white dresses and sandals that you can shop now. Bring on the sunshine.
Style Notes: Take tips from Who What Wear UK columnist Monikh on how to make a simple linen dress feel dressy with just strappy sandals and a statement clutch.
Style Notes: Pretty dresses call for elegant, barely-there sandals and a large tote.
Style Notes: Maximalists can bring colour to an all-white look by adding some bright sandals.
Style Notes: If there’s an outfit that doesn’t work with black leather sandals, I’m yet to find it. A case in point: Marianne Smyth’s billowy cotton dress.
Proof that an easy, jersey dress deserves a spot in your wardrobe.
Cult classics.
This is such an elegant linen dress.
This colour is just so good.
The perfect garden party dress? I think so.
I’m convinced these would go with just about everything in my wardrobe.
Faithfull the Brand always get beautiful dresses right.
Dragon Diffusion doesn’t just make covetable bags, there are stylish slides too.
Dresses this good for under £35 don’t come along very often.
Mid-heel mules are still trending.
Perfect for the beach and the city.
Form an orderly queue—these aren’t likely to hang around for long.
The ruching is such a clever detail.
How to do sandals for evening.
Urban Outfitters specialises in boho-inspired, festival-ready dresses.
For when it’s too hot to wear your jeans.
This is ideal for wearing to the office.
Shoe lovers, let this be your sign to get Porte & Paire on your radar.
Even mini-dress sceptics will be charmed by this belted blazer dress.
Leather made luxe.
Off-the-shoulder dresses suit every body, especially in summer white.
Arizona Love sandals have always been the cool-girl’s brand of choice.
This also comes in navy blue and black.
Simply too cute to keep to myself.
Got a formal occasion? White dresses work here too.
These also come in pink for the ultimate dose of Barbiecore.
When blue denim feels too heavy, there’s always ecru.
