As I type this, I’m wearing two pairs of socks on my feet, which are tucked into a pair of sheepskin slippers—and I’m still cold. So, you’ll forgive me for indulging in a spot of springtime daydreaming, escaping just for a second into thoughts of brighter days and warmer temperatures and, inevitably, the fashion that comes with them. And, when it comes to spring clothes, nothing feels more seasonally appropriate than a pretty dress.
Admittedly I’m a dress girl, but I can’t be the only one who gets endorphins just thinking about slipping into one (without the need for thermal tights underneath). While I have quite the collection of them hanging in my wardrobe, which I can’t wait to get the wear out of, I can’t help but let my eye wander to the stunning array of dresses that have begun to drop in just about every new-in section on the internet ahead of spring.
Emma Leger wears a tulle dress from independent brand Selkie.
From high-end to high-street, the entire shopping spectrum has kickstarted a frock frenzy, with so many beautiful designs already coming through. Let us, however, not overlook the brilliant independent dress labels that have also been working hard to produce some of the finest and most-inclusive around—whimsical, fantastical, and limited edition? I like the sound of that, don’t you?
Still, considering which to invest in can be a daunting prospect with so many dresses out there, which is why I’ve rounded up my favourite spring dress brands in one place for you to peruse at your leisure. With everything from slinky knit to full-on froth, you’re sure to find your spring-dress soulmate in my edit. Scroll on to see 13 stunning spring dress brands.
Born out of a desire to create silhouettes that “whisper rather than shout”, Christopher Esber’s designs have won over the style set. Though founded in 2010, it’s over the past couple of years that the brand’s creations have skyrocketed.
Cut outs remain huge for spring 2022.
Ease yourself in with a knitted midi.
This colour is so striking.
I already own four Ghost dresses, and can confirm they’re all excellent. The silhouettes are always incredibly easy to wear and are some of the most versatile I own in terms of styling.
Add boots for day, heels for night.
The stitching on the bodice needs to be seen up-close.
An unusual colour you don’t always come across.
With its frothy creations painted in candy floss colours, Selkie, the purveyor of modern-day princess frocks, is the epitome of escapist dressing.
This is spring in a dress.
Selkie’s minis have an incredible shape to them.
A new style for the brand, I know this is going to be just as popular as its OG Puff dress.
Although it’s a brand you’re likely already familiar with, I couldn’t not include Rixo in my edit. Although the brand produces incredible dresses year-round, I think it truly comes into its own in springtime, with its tea dresses serving as a highlight.
So chic.
The denim dress, reinvented.
The clash between the sage and tomato red is unexpected but very much appreciated.
Another influencer-loved brand, Faithfull was created for those who love to travel. Its lightweight dresses are designed to be easily packed, even in the smallest of cases. It goes without saying, however, that they look just as chic on home soil.
Influencers with minimalist aesthetics will wear this on mass this spring.
What is spring without a splash of gingham?
Layer this with a chunky knitted cardigan until things heat up.
Founded in 1967, Loretta Caponi first became known for its luxurious lingerie and beachwear. Right now, however, its dresses seem to be a core focus for the brand, as is its amazing homeware line-up.
The mix of stripes and florals makes for a new print to obsess over.
I’d wear this with burgundy boots now, then tan sliders come May.
I would love to have a garden party to wear this to.
Sea was founded in New York and draws much of its inspiration for its designs from the eclectic style of the city’s residents. A fusion of elevated cool, Sea’s clothes—particularly its dresses—are ideal those who want to look like they’ve dressed without effort, and instead with natural flair.
Sea continues its exploration of patchwork motifs in dress form for spring.
I never met a white dress I didn’t like.
Velvet isn’t just for winter.
When you hear the brand “Staud”, chances are its bags are the first thing that come to mind. However if you ask me, its dresses are just as covetable and special.
I’ve already added this dress to my wish list.
Continuing on 2021’s massive checkerboard trend with this knitted midi.
The contrast edging really hones focus on the silhouette and cut-outs of this monochrome maxi.
If you asked me if I’d heard of the brand Taller Marmo six months ago, I’d have to say I hadn’t. But what a monumental six months it’s been for the brand. With newfound fans in Emili Sandé and Nicole Richie—not to mention a slew of influencers—this is set to be one of the most exciting names for 2022.
Such a brilliant colour pairing.
Feathers are another fabrication that isn’t just for party season.
This hangs so beautifully on.
The made-to-order market is one that’s only set to grow in 2022, with designers making small batch numbers that actually reflect the demand and sizing of its clientele. Leading the charge is Benjamin Fox, a slow fashion brand based out of Norfolk whose dresses are the stuff of sartorial fairytales.
The little ribbon detail is such a sweet addition.
If you prefer to stick to a dark palette.
Red gingham always makes me think of springtime picnics—in the best possible way.
The creator of more It dresses than perhaps any other affordable brand, it would be remiss not to highlight Free People’s excellent array of dresses. With a bohemian aesthetic that loans itself perfectly to the spring season, prepare for Free People to start dominating your feed once again.
A mini that can be styled just as easily with Dr Martens as it can with heels.
I’m always drawn to Free People embroidery.
This dress comes in four stylish colour ways, though the tangerine is my personal favourite.
A white dress I’m desperate to add to my collection.
The addition of black panels makes this checked dress feel less twee.
I’m not over the big collar trend yet, either.
Bold, bright, and size-inclusive? I want to see more brands follow Never Fully Dressed’s lead this spring. A hit amongst influencers and editors alike, NFD creates strong designs that look well beyond their price-tags.
A very sleek take on camouflage.
Holiday on the horizon? Might I draw your attention to this incredible mini that won’t take up room in your suitcase.
I’ve seen this dress all over Instagram.
Next Up, Spring/Summer 2022 Trends: The Only 17 Looks You Need to Know About
