January 31, 2022 at 06:35AM
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.
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.
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.
With its frothy creations painted in candy floss colours, Selkie, the purveyor of modern-day princess frocks, is the epitome of escapist dressing.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
Next Up, Spring/Summer 2022 Trends: The Only 17 Looks You Need to Know About
Author Maxine Eggenberger | Whowhatwear
Selected by CWC