Best high street dresses for special summer occasions

In need of some dress inspo? We've got you. (Getty Images)
In need of some dress inspo? We've got you. (Getty Images)

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Don't let the current weather fool you, summer is on its way and with it, at last, many occasions to wear gorgeous dresses.

From June 21st, coronavirus restrictions are (currently) expected to be lifted, which means that weddings, birthday parties and all sorts of other special occasions can take place again – and we plan to attend as many as we possibly can.

The only problem? We don't really have anything to wear.

After a year of lockdowns, body changes and new trends, our pre-pandemic wardrobe doesn't always cut it.

Luckily, we love a challenge, and so we've scoured the shelves to find the best summer dresses for special occasions, whether it's your own or someone else's.

From pieces that will enchant at a garden party to wedding guest dresses that will stand out in pictures and have you feeling like just as much of a princess on the day as the bride, we've got something for everyone here.

So, prepare to raise your glass and look fabulous doing so.

Best summer dresses for special occasions

Serendipity pleated long sleeve midi dress | £160 from Ted Baker

(Ted Baker)
(Ted Baker)

AND/OR La Galeria Elefante Kimono Style Sleeve Cotton Dress | £165 from John Lewis

(John Lewis)
(John Lewis)

Jolie Moi Fold Over Fit and Flare Midi Dress | £85 from John Lewis

(John Lewis)
(John Lewis)

AND/OR La Galeria Elefante Jodie Dress | £195 from John Lewis

(John Lewis)
(John Lewis)

Finery Lilly Cherry Print Tea Dress | £49 from John Lewis

(John Lewis)
(John Lewis)

John Lewis & Partners Animal Print Tiered Midi Dress | £59 from John Lewis

(John Lewis)
(John Lewis)

Hobbs Lulu Floral Midi Shirt Dress | £89 from John Lewis

(John Lewis)
(John Lewis)

Floral V-Neck Midi Wrap Dress | £69 from M&S

Whistles Devina Floral Print Halter Neck Dress | £89 from John Lewis

(John Lewis)
(John Lewis)

Polka Dot Tie Front Midi Slip Dress | £69 from M&S

(M&S)
(M&S)

Pure Cotton Broderie Midi Waisted Dress | £59 from M&S

(M&S)
(M&S)

Somerset by Alice Temperley Agatha Maxi Dress | £130 from John Lewis

(John Lewis)
(John Lewis)

Verena Spot Maxi Dress | £88 from Phase Eight

(Phase Eight)
(Phase Eight)

Printed Twist Halter Midi Dress | £64.50 from Karen Millen

(Karen Millen)
(Karen Millen)

Mango Wrap V-Neck Mini Dress | £19.99 from Mango

(Mango)
(Mango)

Phase Eight Breesha Layered Dress | £88 from John Lewis

(John Lewis)
(John Lewis)

Watch: Sustainable wardrobe essentials

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